Outside the main hall, Liang Yan awaited the summons, adjusting his attire. Soon, he stepped into the grand hall with a steady gait. Dressed in splendid garments and adorned with a unique crown, he carried himself with poise despite his youth. After bowing respectfully, he spoke clearly:
"Liang Kingdom's envoy, Liang Yan, pays his respects to Your Majesty, Emperor Wu. I have heard of the prosperity of Wu Kingdom and have been sent by His Majesty the Emperor of Liang to pay a visit and bring a humble gift. May our two nations thrive together."
As he spoke, he gestured for his attendant to present the gift box. The Wu Emperor glanced at the box and smiled faintly. "I appreciate the goodwill of Liang Kingdom; I accept it graciously. However, besides presenting gifts, is there anything else you wish to discuss with me?"
"This visit is under the orders of His Majesty the Emperor of Liang to propose an alliance with Wu Kingdom," Liang Yan replied.
At this declaration, the hall fell silent. After a moment of contemplation, the Wu Emperor slowly responded, "An alliance is a significant matter; I must discuss it with my ministers. However, I am also inclined to restore relations with Liang Kingdom."
A hint of joy appeared on Liang Yan's face as he replied, "Your Majesty is wise; this is a fortunate opportunity for both our nations."
The Wu Emperor continued, "In that case, Envoy Liang, please rest at Guanyin Inn."
"Yes," Liang Yan answered.
Once Liang Yan and his entourage had departed, the Wu Emperor turned to his ministers and said, "Let us deliberate on this matter."
The Grand Tutor stepped forward first and clasped his hands in respect. "Your Majesty, Liang Kingdom's initiative to seek an alliance may harbor ulterior motives. Although our nation is currently prosperous, we must remain vigilant against potential schemes from other states."
However, the Censor Minister held an opposing view: "Your Majesty, forming an alliance with Liang Kingdom offers many benefits. It can ensure peace along our borders and facilitate trade, which would be advantageous for our people."
The ministers debated passionately, each presenting their arguments. Finally, Crown Prince Lin Zheng spoke up: "Father, I believe that while an alliance is feasible, we must proceed with caution."
The Wu Emperor nodded slightly at his son's words. After pondering for a moment and surveying his ministers, he declared: "Let us postpone discussions on the alliance for now; await my further instructions. You may all retire."
After exiting the grand hall, Liang Yan returned to Guanyin Inn. Uncertainty clouded his expression as he wondered about the outcome of their discussions.
Liang Siqi looked at Er Ge and decided to take Liang Yan out for a stroll. Liang Yan had been worried lately and hadn’t gone out at all.
"Sister, you go ahead. I won’t join you," Liang Yan said.
"Alright, Er Ge, I’ll bring you some delicious food later," Liang Siqi replied before heading out, followed closely by her maid.
As Liang Siqi wandered through the market with her maid, she felt her spirits lift while admiring various trinkets.
"How much is this?" Liang Siqi asked, picking up a hairpin.
"Miss, it’s just two taels of silver," the vendor replied.
"Two taels? Isn’t that a bit expensive?" Liang Siqi pouted, pretending to put it down.
The vendor quickly interjected, "Miss, this is top-quality merchandise! Just look at the exquisite craftsmanship."
"And since you’re the first customer today, I’ll sell it to you for one tael and eight coins."
Liang Siqi's maid couldn’t help but chime in, "That’s still too expensive. Our miss is just looking; she doesn’t have to buy it."
Hearing this, the vendor grew anxious and hurriedly said, "Alright, alright! One tael and five coins—this is the lowest price I can offer."
Liang Siqi smiled. "One tael and five coins it is then."
Just as she was speaking, a sudden commotion erupted in the crowd. A group of burly men charged through, knocking over several stalls in their wake.
"What are you doing?" Liang Siqi shouted angrily.
The leader of the group glanced at her dismissively. "Who do you think you are, little miss? Mind your own business."
The maid was so frightened that she hid behind Liang Siqi.
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