Chapter 994: Chapter 994 Rejection

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

The Emperor reached for Gu Chengrui’s memorial book and flipped through the pages with distracted eyes. “It’s been a long and arduous journey,” he acknowledged.

“To be able to contribute to Your Majesty is an honor,” Gu Chengrui bowed respectfully.

“I’m very grateful to hear that,” the Emperor replied. “I understand you only returned to the capital yesterday. Take the next two days to rest before resuming your duties at the medical center.”

“Thankyou for your understanding, Your Majesty,” Gu Chengrui expressed his gratitude.

“In fact,” the Emperor continued, “I had intended to promote you to Prime Minister. What do you think of that?”

“Isn’t Minister Chen performing admirably in that role?” Gu Chengrui inquired after a moment of surprise.

“He unfortunately suffered a stroke before the New Year,” the Emperor explained. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t have considered replacing him.”

“Your Majesty,” Gu Chengrui interjected, “I can treat Minister Chen. As for the position of Prime Minister, I must humbly decline. It’s not a matter of false modesty; I truly believe I’m not suited for such a role.”

The Emperor studied Gu Chengrui’s resolute expression and sighed. “I recognize your capabilities very well. Consider this carefully; don’t rush to reject my offer.”

“Well…” Gu Chengrui hesitated to refuse outright. “There are still others in the court who would be capable Prime Ministers, Your Majesty. You should consider them as well. I don’t believe I’m the best fit for the position.”

Having voiced his reservations, he proceeded to explain his plan to embark on a voyage.

The Emperor was stunned by this revelation. “What prompted this idea?” He asked incredulously.

“Your Majesty is aware that there are foreign merchants constantly traveling the seas, right?” Gu Chengrui began.

“Indeed,” the Emperor acknowledged, “but the risks are significant. Eight out of ten don’t return. You certainly don’t need to take such a chance.”

“Then has Your Majesty ever considered this?” Gu Chengrui countered. “These merchants who reach our shores have likely already gained a thorough understanding of our situation, while we remain ignorant of theirs. What happens if they establish control over the oceans in the future?

“For example, on the Eastern Continent, couldn’t they cross the ocean and launch an offensive? We must be prepared.”

The Emperor was struck by these words, falling into deep contemplation. After a long silence, he finally spoke. “Do you truly believe they will?”

“It’s my conviction that they will,” Gu Chengrui confirmed. “While the risk is high, knowing oneself and one’s enemy is the key to victory, isn’t it?”

“Are you certain about this journey?” the Emperor pressed.

“Yes,” Gu Chengrui responded resolutely. “I’ve already secured a ship. If the initial voyage proves successful, I intend to make it a regular endeavor.”

“Have you given any thought to the Empress?” the Emperor inquired.

“The Empress has Your Majesty by her side,” Gu Chengrui replied. “Besides, Chenglin is grown now. They shouldn’t rely on me indefinitely.”

The Emperor shot him a look of exasperation. “Go and discuss this with the Empress yourself,” he instructed. “If she agrees, then I have no objections.”

Truth be told, a part of him yearned to embark on such a journey himself, to see the world beyond their borders.

“Very well then,” Gu Chengrui said. “Since you have matters to attend to, I shall take my leave.” With that, he headed straight for the harem.

Upon learning of his intentions, the Empress reacted with panic. “Cousin,” she exclaimed, “you need to think carefully! This is a matter of life and death, not a casual decision.”

“I understand,” Gu Chengrui acknowledged, “but one needs purpose in life. The truth is, I truly despise the political landscape.”

“You’re being mean,” the Empress lamented. “What will we do if you leave?”

“I’ll give you this,” Gu Chengrui offered, presenting her with the small statue of the Mother God that Zhou Ying had given him.

“This will surely protect you. Furthermore, you’re grown now; it’s time for you to be independent.”

The Empress accepted the statue, examining it closely. “I never imagined the statue of the Mother Goddess to be so small,” she remarked in surprise. “Has it been consecrated?”

“Yes, it has the same effect as praying at the Mother God Temple. When we attacked the Northern Continent, I relied on this to ask Mother God for medicine so that the military camp would not run out of medicine.”

Hearing this, Gu Wanning knew that he had made up his mind, so she didn’t say much more. “Just make sure you think it through; we respect your decision.”