But Dan Youguo didn’t show any sign of displeasure. In fact, he burst out in laughter the next instant. He patted Di Mingzhe’s shoulder with vigor and exclaid, "Good! Just as expected from a responsible and dedicated man. It’s no wonder you’re the pupil I’ve always been proud of. I feel deeply gratified, Mingzhe!"
Di Mingzhe gave a faint smile, showing no surprise at Dan Youguo’s words. Instead, he said humbly, "I’m sorry for letting you down, teacher."
"Ah, forget about it." Dan Youguo dismissed it nonchalantly, giving a thumbs up. "Being a man entails this. Standing firm and protecting the woman you love is an absolute duty. It’s a little regretful that Lingling couldn’t beco your wife, but what I deeply regret is she won’t get to enjoy your company. It’s just her luck in the end."
"Regardless, our bond as teacher and student remains. I’ve always respected your intentions and views. No matter whose daughter you end up marrying, I am still your teacher."
"Yes," Di Mingzhe nodded slightly in agreent. "Sir, your words are certainly true."
"Hmm." Dan Youguo nodded, admiringly stating, "Arrange the ti and let know. I’ll grant you the wedding leave, but don’t neglect your work during your marriage. I believe your wife will appreciate being the First Lady."
Di Mingzhe didn’t reply. He narrowed his eyes slightly and lifted his lips up in a small smile, maintaining his unperturbed deanor.
Dan Youguo chuckled, patting his shoulder again. "There’s a matter I want you to attend to. The United Nations just held a eting and decided to include Rubik’s Cube competitions as an official international competitive sport. It’s a matter of national pride. As far as I know, your younger brother won the Rubik’s Cube competition abroad five years ago. If he participates now and wins a gold dal, it would be a huge honor for our Empire."
"The first gold dal always holds a special significance. Besides, this would result in an unparalleled honor for the Di family. However, your younger brother is a businessman, a bit stubborn. Therefore, we need you to step in and sort it out."
Di Mingzhe chuckled. So he was being solicited, that explained the abrupt changes in their conversation.
This is how politics works. In order to achieve your objectives, you need to play both sides.
If Di Mingjue truly won a gold dal during Dan Youguo’s tenure, it would be considered a personal achievent for him. It seed that Dan Youguo remained a fervent adherent of power.
Whatever happens, the first priority was to safeguard his personal performance in office.
Di Mingzhe raised an eyebrow nonchalantly, "Is that so? If it’s indeed the case, I can persuade my younger brother, however, I can’t guarantee success."
"You must succeed." Dan Youguo declared, "You are his elder brother. If you can’t guarantee success, who can? This concerns our nation’s honor, personal feelings should not be involved."
"I will do my best." Di Mingzhe nodded, keeping his options open, essentially putting indirect pressure on Dan Youguo.
Dan Youguo roared in laughter, changing the subject. "You guys in the Di family are truly remarkable. You probably haven’t caught up with the latest political news. Besides the Rubik’s Cube, another sport that’s been included in the national competitive sports is extre skateboarding."
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