Chapter 1781: Not Failing Expectations

……

On this day, the sun was bright in Chang'an City, and the Prime Minister's mansion was also peaceful and serene. Gu Yi was discussing state affairs with several staff members in the study when suddenly, a crisp sound of footsteps broke the silence in the room, followed immediately by Yuan Li's voice outside the door: "Prime Minister, Li'er has important matters to report."

Gu Yi looked up, a flash of surprise in his eyes, then signaled the attendant to let Yuan Li in. Yuan Li stepped into the study, and after bowing, said with a solemn expression: "Prime Minister, Li'er recently heard some rumors in the academy that some small border countries are restless and seem to have the intention of invading."

Upon hearing this, Gu Yi frowned slightly, and his gaze toward Yuan Li held a bit more appreciation: "Young Lady Yuan is well-informed; I have also heard of this matter and was just about to discuss countermeasures with everyone. Since you already know, what are your insights?"

Yuan Li pondered for a moment and gathered her courage to say: "Although Li'er does not understand military affairs, I think we should strengthen border defenses, and at the same time send envoys to negotiate with surrounding countries to demonstrate the prestige of our great nation, so that they dare not act rashly."

Gu Yi nodded, expressing approval of Yuan Li's analysis: "Young Lady Yuan's words are reasonable; I have exactly this intention. However, border affairs are not a one-day achievement and require long-term planning. It is truly the fortune of the nation that you young people can have such insights."

The staff members on the side also echoed one after another, expressing appreciation for Yuan Li's insights. Seeing this, a sense of achievement welled up in Yuan Li's heart; she knew that she was gradually integrating into the decision-making layer of this country, contributing her strength to realize her father's last wish.

After the meeting ended, Yuan Li withdrew from the study and happened to meet Yuan Han, who had come to look for her. Seeing his sister's pleasant expression, Yuan Han smiled: "Li'er, looking at you, have you shown your face before the Prime Minister again?"

Yuan Li chuckled and walked side by side with her brother: "Brother is teasing me; Li'er is just doing my best to share the Prime Minister's worries."

Yuan Han patted his sister's shoulder: "Li'er, you did very well. Our Yuan family is honored because of you. By the way, I have been studying military strategy recently and have some insights I want to share with you; are you interested?"

Yuan Li's eyes lit up: "Of course I am interested; Brother, take me to your study quickly."

The two talked as they walked and soon arrived at Yuan Han's study. The study was piled with various military books and strategies. Yuan Han picked up "The Art of War by Sun Tzu" and began to discuss the strategies and wisdom within it with Yuan Li. The brother and sister sometimes argued and sometimes resonated, the atmosphere warm and harmonious.

……

At the same time, Feng Ji was also busy in the backyard of the Prime Minister's mansion. She not only managed household chores but also often paid attention to the growth of Yuan Han and Yuan Li, providing them with life support and spiritual encouragement. On this day, she was instructing servants to prepare dinner when she suddenly heard an attendant report: "Lady Feng, the Prime Minister requests your presence."

Feng Ji was slightly stunned, then tidied her clothes and went to Gu Yi's study. She secretly speculated in her heart: Gu Yi summoning her at this time, could it be that there was some important matter?

Entering the study, Feng Ji bowed: "Prime Minister, what matter do you have for summoning this concubine?"

Gu Yi put down the pen in his hand, looked up at Feng Ji, his eyes flashing with a bit of gentleness: "Lady Feng, I have a matter I want to discuss with you. Recently, the border situation is tense, and I intend to send Yuan Han to the border to gain experience; what is your intention?"

Upon hearing this, Feng Ji was shocked in her heart, but then calmed down. She knew that this was an opportunity for Yuan Han's growth and also the hope for the Yuan family's revival. Thus, she took a deep breath and said firmly: "Prime Minister, this concubine believes that Han'er has the ability to take on this responsibility. Although he is young, he has the world in his heart and will certainly be able to serve the country. This concubine supports the Prime Minister's decision."

Upon hearing this, a flash of appreciation appeared in Gu Yi's eyes: "Lady Feng is indeed deep in righteousness. I also know that this matter has no small risk, but if Yuan Han can gain experience at the border, he will surely become a great talent in the future. I will arrange everything properly to ensure his safety."

Feng Ji nodded, although she felt reluctant in her heart, there was more expectation for Yuan Han's future: "Many thanks, Prime Minister. This concubine believes in the Prime Minister's arrangements and also believes that Han'er will be able to live up to expectations."

……

Several days later, in the courtyard of the Prime Minister's mansion, Yuan Han said goodbye to Yuan Li and Feng Ji. He was dressed in armor, heroic and spirited, with a firm light flickering in his eyes.

Yuan Li held her brother's hand, her eyes filled with tears: "Brother, you must return safely."

Yuan Han gently patted his sister's shoulder: "Li'er, don't cry. With this trip, Brother will certainly achieve great things and win glory for you and Mother."

Feng Ji stepped forward, tidied Yuan Han's lapels, and said softly: "Han'er, Mother believes in you. No matter what difficulties you encounter, you must persist. Mother and Li'er will wait for your return at home."

Yuan Han nodded, a flash of firmness in his eyes: "Mother, Li'er, rest assured. I, Yuan Han, will certainly not fail the mission!"

After speaking, he turned and walked toward the outside of the courtyard, embarking on the journey to the border. Yuan Li and Feng Ji stood in the courtyard, watching his back gradually fade away, their hearts full of expectation and blessings.

Gu Yi stood on the side, watching this scene, his heart full of emotion. ===== CHAPTER 1782 =====