Previously, he wanted to become a renowned scholar, but now he doesnât even think about it. He doesnât associate with academic places at all, focusing solely on his business, appearing to outsiders as nothing but a money-driven merchant.
"In your opinion, if the Emperor is wary of you, it means heâs wary of our entire mansion. Why then does he allow your brother to progress?"
Ye Ziâan enjoys discussing these matters with his son; it gives him unique perspectives each time, making him feel that speaking with his eldest opens up his mind.
"Father, the Emperor may not necessarily be wary of the Ye Family." Discussing this topic made him more serious, "I believe itâs more about the art of imperial balance. You must understand, whether itâs my title or Qingqingâs future inheritance of the marquis, these are merely nominal at present. They seem impressive now, but eventually, you will retire from the court, and our Ye Family will have no influence there, leaving only a facade."
"To speak honestly, the Emperor is rather decent." Lele said while resting his chin on his hand, "Heâs considered the future paths for you cousins. He wonât let our Ye Family fade into obscurity after you retire. Heâll surely employ one of us among the three brothers to maintain our familyâs prestige. But among the three of us brothers, Iâm certainly not suited. Aside from already being a king, I donât believe the Grand Emperor wouldnât discuss anything with him."
"So?" Ye Ziâan encouraged Lele to continue with appreciation.
"Donât rush, let me have some tea to refresh my throat."
Ye Ziâan was taken aback, this kid really has quite the ego.
Yueyue was also absorbed in listening and, hearing that he was thirsty, quickly poured him a cup of water. After he drank, she urged, "Brother, continue."
Lele glanced sideways at her and continued, "The main issue is, if I were chosen, I would have to achieve something once entering the court, how could the Emperor reward me then? Moreover, Qingqing will inherit Marquis Changning. Qingqing is not someone without ability, he will definitely advance further. You know, those with titles often find themselves with nowhere else to be appointed."
"So Yangyang in our family is very suitable." Lele gestured, "Youâll see, the Emperor will definitely place responsibility on Yangyang. Besides, our family doesnât hold military power, only some titles that impress common folks, so the Emperor doesnât mind us touching some real power, after all, if someone is to touch power, heâd prefer someone he trusts."
"But he absolutely wonât let all three of us brothers into court simultaneously; among the three of us brothers, frankly, whoever assumes that position, he wonât use all three of us simultaneously, otherwise it wouldnât be reassuring."
"Pfft..." Hearing this, Ye Ziâan couldnât help but burst out laughing, "Youâre turning sound reasoning into absurdity."
"Then son, wonât you feel regretful? Wonât you feel unfulfilled?"
"Whatâs there to regret?" Lele waved his hand, "Even if entering the court doesnât result in significant use, itâs better not to enter at all. Besides, the imperial balance technique is about the shift of power. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west; although I may be suppressed, when I have a son, he wonât face suppression. Then my son can inherit my aspirations just the same."
After finishing, Lele felt secretly proud; his brain was truly amazing.