"You wish to marry Princess Changle?" Upon hearing Ye Zhen's words, Prime Minister Wen Gang's expression did not change, but the hand holding his teacup paused in midair.
After a moment, he smiled at Ye Zhen. "It is only natural for men and women to admire one another. Marshal Ye is in the prime of his life, while Princess Changle is in the bloom of youth. Given Marshal Ye's current status, seeking to marry Princess Changle is quite appropriate.
"However, marriage is a matter for one's parents to decide. If Marshal Ye wishes to marry Princess Changle, you should petition His Majesty. Only once His Majesty agrees can your marriage be arranged.
"This is not something this old man can help Marshal Ye with."
Wen Gang's words were exceedingly polished. He first affirmed that Ye Zhen's actions were not abrupt or improper, making them very pleasant to hear.
Thus, even though he ultimately refused, it would not provoke any displeasure.
Then, Prime Minister Wen Gang slightly raised his teacup, signaling that he was seeing his guest out. The chief steward of the Prime Minister's Mansion entered as well.
Yet Ye Zhen showed no awareness whatsoever that he ought to get up and leave.
"Prime Minister, Ye Zhen naturally understands that to seek Princess Changle's hand, I must first obtain His Majesty's permission.
"However, I also know very well that His Majesty will absolutely refuse to let me marry Princess Changle at present. That is why I have come to seek your help, Prime Minister." Ye Zhen smiled.
A sharp light flickered repeatedly in Prime Minister Wen Gang's eyes. Clearly, he had smelled something in Ye Zhen's words.
"Heh, Marshal Ye, you jest. If His Majesty does not approve of the marriage, how could this old man possibly make the decision?"