Reborn and returned, sisters swapped

Gu Jinyan, now standing in the study, opened his eyes, his gaze still deep and calm.

Through this in-depth understanding, she has figured out the plans and trends of the Quran.

She not only sensed the Quran's ambition and determination, but also glimpsed her connections with external forces and her betrayal of her family.

On an autumn evening, a few withered leaves drifted down into the courtyard of the Gu Family Prince's Mansion, and the courtyard was silent.

Inside the study, Gu Yuande sat upright in a carved mahogany chair, his brows slightly furrowed, his eyes sharp as a hawk's, staring at the dark sky outside the window, deep in thought.

Since the changes in the political situation, although the family has remained in a corner of the country, its power has gradually weakened.

At present, forging an alliance with the Zhao family through marriage is undoubtedly an excellent opportunity to consolidate the Gu family's position.

The Zhao family is a clan of military talents. Its patriarch, Zhao Lingyun, is a general of the current dynasty, holding the reins of the three armies and enjoying great prestige. He is especially favored by the emperor.

Zhao Lingyun's eldest son, Zhao Lingfeng, was a promising young man. Although he was rough in nature, he had made outstanding military achievements.

If they were to form a marriage alliance with the Zhao family, they could not only use the power of the military to solidify their family's position, but also increase their influence in the court.

From any perspective, this marriage was a shortcut for the Gu family to reach the pinnacle of power.

Gu Yuande tapped his fingers lightly on the table, pondering for a long time.

The candle in front of him flickered slightly, its shadow outlining the deep contours of his face.

This matter requires careful consideration; both Gu Jinyan and Quran are suitable candidates.

Gu Jinyan is exceptionally intelligent and courageous, and is an outstanding member of the family.

The Quran describes someone as resourceful, sociable, and adept at handling complex situations.

Both have their own strengths, and the decision regarding this marriage is crucial to the future fate of the entire Gu family.

"The Princess Consort has arrived—" A voice announced from outside the door. Gu Yuande looked up slightly and saw the Princess Consort walking slowly into the study.

The Queen Consort is well-educated and reasonable. She has assisted Gu Yuande for many years and is always very knowledgeable about family affairs. Her visit today is obviously also for the purpose of marriage.

“Madam,” Gu Yuande gestured for her to sit down, his face expressionless but his eyes revealing a hint of weariness.

"With the political situation in turmoil and the Zhao family holding a dominant position in the court, only by forming a marriage alliance with them can the Gu family establish a solid foundation."

However, between Jin Yan and Lan Ci…” He paused, as if hesitating.

Princess Gu sighed softly, looked down at her teacup, and began to speak: "Jin Yan is intelligent, but she is independent and may not be willing to use marriage to benefit her family."

Lan Ci, however, is worldly-wise, possesses sophisticated social skills, and has a gentle yet resilient nature, making her more suitable for this kind of marriage.

She paused briefly, then looked up at Gu Yuande. "However, Lan Ci is very cunning. If we marry her into the Zhao family, I'm afraid her ambition will bring trouble in the future."

Gu Yuande pondered upon hearing this, his brows furrowing even deeper.

His gaze turned to the window, his thoughts drifting.

He knew that Quran was always very cunning, and if he really sent her to the Zhao family, she might be difficult to control in the future.

Although Gu Jinyan is intelligent, she is too stubborn. If she is unwilling to submit, she may not be of good benefit to the Gu family after marriage.

"Very well, I'll summon Jin Yan later. I need to discuss this with her in person." Gu Yuande put down his teacup, as if he had made a decision.

As night deepened, Gu Jinyan was summoned to the study.

She was dressed in plain clothes, her long hair was tied up high, and her expression was calm, as if she had already guessed the purpose of this summons.

Gu Yuande looked at her, a hint of relief flashing in his eyes, and nodded gently:

"Jinyan, you should have heard something about the family situation these days."

Gu Jinyan lowered his eyes without changing his expression and calmly replied:

"Father is absolutely right. With the power dynamics shifting in the court, what the family needs right now is a strong alliance."

Her words were witty, and she understood her father's intentions perfectly.

Seeing her keen insight, Gu Yuande secretly praised her.

He slowly rose, pacing back and forth with his hands behind his back, his voice deep and powerful:

"The Zhao family holds sway over the region, consolidating their power in their hands, and the eldest son of the Zhao family is the one you should entrust your life to."

Jin Yan, this marriage alliance is no trivial matter. It will determine the rise and fall of our family. Your future is important, but the family's interests come first.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jinyan was startled and looked up at his father. His father's words left no room for negotiation; the marriage was a done deal.

She felt heavy-hearted. Although the marriage alliance could help her family rise to prominence, it might not be what she wanted.

Zhao Lingfeng's brutality and ruthlessness had already spread throughout the court and the public. Marrying such a man meant that she would be bound to another for the rest of her life.

But Gu Yuande's gaze remained cold and resolute, as if her fate had been forged into an unshakeable iron by his words.

Gu Jinyan knew that her father would not allow her to easily escape this arranged marriage, and the heavy burden of the family had already fallen on her shoulders.

“I understand, Father.” Gu Jinyan’s voice was calm, but his heart was in turmoil.