"Regardless, congratulations first, Wolf Marquis."
The several Commanders of the Zhao Xing Office and generals of the garrison wore smiles as they offered their heartfelt congratulations, then turned and left.
After they were gone, Lin Bai was still utterly confused. He stood there dumbfounded, completely at a loss.
Prince Chen approached with a smile, and only then did Lin Bai ask curiously, "Your Highness, what did those lords mean just now?"
Prince Chen smiled and said, "Imperial Father bestowed the title of 'Wolf Marquis' upon you. It looks like a three-character marquis title, but Imperial Father actually bestowed a character upon you, making it a One-Character Marquis title."
"Normally speaking, even if you captured Lanyue, the Demoness, your contribution, though substantial, shouldn't have been enough to elevate you three ranks straight from High Minister to One-Character Marquis."
"Imperial Father naturally had a deeper purpose in doing this. Most likely, he wants to recruit you into the imperial clan!"
After Prince Chen's explanation, Lin Bai finally understood and nodded.
Prince Chen continued, "When the imperial clan recruits martial artists, there are generally only three methods, divided into upper, middle, and lower strategies."
"The lower strategy is for martial artists who pursue fame, status, and wealth. Such people are the easiest to deal with. All you need to do is promise them fame, status, and wealth."
"If he wants a noble title, give him a noble title. If he wants an official position, give him an official position."
"The middle strategy is to make conditional promises, rather like a transaction. When a martial artist wants certain benefits from the imperial clan, the imperial clan will dispatch them in return."
"It amounts to an equal exchange."
"The upper strategy is marriage, especially when it comes to certain young talents within Chu. Marriage is