Inside the solemn and imposing diplomatic hall of the Starshine Empire, the atmosphere was heavy, almost tangible, as a diplomatic negotiation concerning the fate of both nations was underway. Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen appeared resolute and composed, knowing full well that they bore not only the glory and expectations of the Rong Kingdom, but also the future peace and prosperity of the people of both countries.

At the outset of negotiations, the Foreign Minister of the Starry Empire launched the first attack. He stared sharply at Xiao Yichen, his tone carrying a barely perceptible arrogance: "General Xiao, the Rong Kingdom has come seeking an alliance. However, your war with the Mu Kingdom has only just ended, and the domestic situation is not yet fully stable. If my Starry Empire were to ally with your country, we fear we would be drawn into unnecessary conflict, which would be far too risky for our nation. What explanation do you have for this, General?"

Xiao Yichen bowed slightly, his expression calm and composed. His voice, steady and powerful, echoed in the hall: "My lord, you may not know this, but although Rong Kingdom suffered from war, it has quickly recovered its strength. The country is orderly, and the people live in peace and prosperity. Moreover, the war with Mu Kingdom was to defend peace and justice, and Mu Kingdom is no longer a threat. As for the alliance with Xingyao Empire, it is a rare opportunity for both sides. Our country possesses abundant resources and unique skills, such as the unparalleled silk weaving technique, which can be shared with your country to promote trade prosperity. Furthermore, our army has accumulated rich combat experience and exquisite tactics after many battles. If we can exchange and learn from the mighty army of Xingyao Empire, it will surely enhance the combat effectiveness of both armies and jointly deal with potential external threats. This is a mutually beneficial move, so where is the risk?"

Xiao Yichen's words were clear, logical, and neither arrogant nor humble, prompting some ministers of the Star Glory Empire to nod slightly, seemingly agreeing with his views. However, the conservative forces did not give up.

A nobleman in a magnificent brocade robe stood up, his eyes sweeping contemptuously over Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen. He sneered, "Hmph! Even if, as the general says, Rong Kingdom is stable and rich in resources, in this chaotic world, only strength is true protection. My Starry Empire's military power is renowned far and wide, so why would we need an alliance with your country? Could it be that you intend to use my country's strength to consolidate Rong Kingdom's position?"

Seeing this, Lin Wan'er secretly used her mind-reading ability and clearly sensed the nobleman's jealousy and prejudice against Rong Kingdom. She took a small step forward, a faint smile playing on her lips, and said softly, "My lord, you are mistaken. We have all witnessed the strength of the Starry Empire and admire it greatly. But Rong Kingdom is not weak and easily bullied. In the past, Rong Kingdom single-handedly resisted the invasions of many foreign enemies and protected the peace of our region. Now, we stand here not to beg for pity or protection, but with sincere hearts, hoping to join hands with the Starry Empire to create a new era of peace and stability. On this vast continent, nations depend on each other, like stars shining brightly in the night sky, reflecting each other to create the most splendid light. After the alliance, we can carry out extensive exchanges and cooperation in many fields such as culture, science and technology, and art, so that the people of both countries can enjoy more benefits. Isn't that a wonderful thing?"

Lin Wan'er's words flowed like a clear spring into everyone's hearts. She skillfully used metaphors and emotional appeal to defuse the other side's hostility, while also injecting a touch of warmth and hope into the negotiations. Some ministers who had initially adopted a wait-and-see attitude began to show a hint of wavering in their eyes.

However, the Finance Minister of the Starry Empire immediately raised a pointed question: "While Miss Lin's words are pleasing, after the alliance is formed, trade, military cooperation, and many other matters will require a great deal of financial and material resources. Does Rong Kingdom have sufficient funds and resources to support these collaborations? What if the collaborations lead to an increased financial burden on our country?"

Xiao Yichen was prepared. He calmly took out a detailed plan from his robes and handed it to a nearby attendant, indicating that he should present it to the Emperor and ministers of the Xingyao Empire. “Your Majesty, Your Excellencies,” he said, “this is Rong Kingdom’s meticulously crafted cooperation plan. In trade, we plan to open multiple trade routes, connecting not only the major cities of both countries but also radiating to surrounding areas, thus expanding the scale of trade. Rong Kingdom is willing to provide a large quantity of high-quality goods, such as silk, tea, and porcelain, and also welcomes Xingyao Empire’s specialty products to enter Rong Kingdom’s market. In military cooperation, we will not blindly invest heavily in building up our military, but rather advocate improving the quality and combat capabilities of both armies through joint military exercises and exchanges of military personnel, thereby optimizing resource allocation. In this way, we can achieve the goals of cooperation without placing an excessive burden on the finances of either country. Furthermore, with the prosperity of trade and the enhancement of military strength, the overall strength of both countries will be enhanced, and fiscal revenue will increase accordingly, forming a virtuous cycle.”

Xiao Yichen's plan was detailed and comprehensive, with its data and plans reflecting careful consideration, forcing the ministers of the Starry Empire to reassess Rong Kingdom's sincerity and capabilities. However, just as the negotiations seemed to be progressing favorably, another unexpected situation arose.

News arrived from the border of the Starshine Empire that a mysterious force was frequently active in the border region, suspected of harboring invasion intentions. This news instantly caused a huge uproar at the negotiation site, and the conservative forces once again seized the opportunity to launch an attack.

“General Xiao, Miss Lin, you see, our borders are fraught with crisis, and this is precisely the time when we need to concentrate our efforts on dealing with it. It seems that the alliance with Rong Kingdom can only be put on hold for now, and we should discuss it again after the situation on our borders has stabilized,” a minister said with deep concern.

Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen understood that this might be another conspiracy by the conservatives, but border security was of paramount importance, and they could not stand idly by. Xiao Yichen clasped his hands in a salute to the Emperor of the Star Glory Empire, saying, "Your Majesty, border security concerns the well-being of the people of both nations. Rong Kingdom is willing to work with the Star Glory Empire to address this crisis. We can immediately dispatch an elite force to assist the Star Glory Empire in strengthening its border defenses and jointly investigate the origin and purpose of the mysterious force. This will not only demonstrate the determination and strength of our alliance but also lay a solid foundation for future cooperation."

After a moment's thought, the Emperor of the Starry Empire nodded in agreement to Xiao Yichen's proposal. Thus, Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen led the elite troops of the Rong Kingdom to the border alongside the Starry Empire's army. In the border region, they jointly devised a battle plan, cooperating closely to launch a thrilling encirclement and annihilation operation.

Using her mind-reading abilities, Lin Wan'er successfully obtained crucial intelligence about the mysterious force, including their troop deployments, operational plans, and the mastermind behind them. Based on this intelligence, Xiao Yichen rationally allocated his forces and commanded the battle. With the combined efforts of the two armies, the mysterious force was swiftly defeated, and the border crisis was averted.

This border battle allowed the Emperor and ministers of the Starshine Empire to witness firsthand the strength and sincerity of the Rong Kingdom, and also forged a deep trust and friendship between the two armies. When diplomatic negotiations resumed, the atmosphere was noticeably more harmonious.

However, disagreements arose on several details when discussing the specific terms of the alliance. These included the allocation of leadership, command over military affairs, and the distribution of trade benefits. These issues involved the core interests of both countries, and every detail required careful consideration.

Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen knew that they couldn't easily compromise on these issues, but they also couldn't stubbornly insist on their position, otherwise the negotiations would reach a stalemate. They held several rounds of arduous consultations with the negotiating representatives of the Starry Empire, arguing their case on every issue while actively seeking a compromise and balance.

On the issue of leadership allocation, they proposed establishing an alliance parliament jointly participated in by both countries, composed of important ministers and generals from both sides. Major decisions would need to be discussed and approved by the parliament to avoid one side becoming too powerful. Regarding military command, command authority would be flexibly allocated according to different combat missions and battlefield conditions to ensure that the military forces of both sides could be used rationally. As for the distribution of trade benefits, they formulated a fair and reasonable allocation plan based on factors such as the trade contributions and market size of the two countries.

After long and arduous negotiations, Rong Kingdom and Xingyao Empire successfully reached an alliance agreement. This agreement marked a new stage in the relationship between the two countries. Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen, with their wisdom, courage, and unwavering perseverance, emerged victorious in this fierce diplomatic game, winning Rong Kingdom a valuable opportunity for peace and development.

Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen successfully completed their mission and returned to Rong Kingdom. Along the way, the people lined the streets to welcome them, with cheers and applause rising and falling. Their heroic deeds and outstanding achievements had already spread throughout the streets and alleys, and their prestige was at its zenith.

Back at the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen shed his weariness, yet could not hide the joy and excitement in his heart. Gazing at the familiar courtyard, his thoughts drifted, filled with boundless anticipation for his future life with Lin Wan'er. "Wan'er, now that we've returned from our mission, it's time for us to seriously consider our future," Xiao Yichen said softly, looking tenderly at Lin Wan'er.

Lin Wan'er blushed slightly and nodded gently: "Yichen, I know what you are thinking. I also hope to have a stable future with you."

Xiao Yichen held Lin Wan'er's hand as they strolled through the courtyard. "I once thought that once everything was settled, we could plant all sorts of flowers in this courtyard, so that we would be surrounded by blooming flowers in every season. In the morning, we could practice martial arts and swordsmanship together to strengthen our bodies; in the afternoon, we could enjoy tea and read books in the pavilion, sharing peaceful moments; and at night, we could walk under the moon and confide in each other." His voice was deep and magnetic, as if he were painting a beautiful picture.

Lin Wan'er listened, her eyes sparkling with happiness: "Such a life is truly wonderful. I also hope to travel with you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Rong Kingdom, to see places we have never been before, and to experience the local customs and traditions."

“Of course,” Xiao Yichen said with a smile. “We can also visit extraordinary people in the countryside to learn more skills and knowledge and enrich our experience.”

On the other side of the General's mansion, in Lin Wan'er's boudoir, she was discussing her upcoming marriage with her personal maid. The maid excitedly said, "Miss, news of your marriage to the General has spread throughout the capital! Everyone is eagerly anticipating it. You're about to become the General's wife! That's wonderful!"

Lin Wan'er said shyly and playfully, "You silly girl, you always say such witty things. But I am truly happy. I only wish that in the future I can support Yichen and never leave him."

The maid blinked: "Miss, after you and the general get married, you must give the general's family more children to continue the general's heroic bloodline."

Lin Wan'er's face turned even redder: "These things should be left to nature."

Meanwhile, in the palace, the Emperor praised Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen's achievements, believing their union to be a match made in heaven. He thought it would not only add a beautiful chapter to Rong Kingdom's history but also stabilize the morale of the army and the people. Therefore, the Emperor decided to bestow a marriage upon them and personally arranged all the details of the wedding ceremony.

The news quickly reached the General's Mansion, and Xiao Yichen was both delighted and nervous upon hearing it. He immediately began preparations, selecting the finest wood and hiring skilled craftsmen to meticulously craft the wedding bed and furniture. Each piece of furniture was carved with exquisite patterns, symbolizing good fortune and auspiciousness.

Lin Wan'er then began selecting the fabric and style for her wedding dress. She hesitated among the many silk brocades before finally choosing a red brocade embroidered with golden phoenixes and peonies, symbolizing wealth and glory. She also personally designed the style of her wedding dress, incorporating her own preferences and creativity, striving for perfection.

During the wedding preparations, Xiao Yichen often fell into deep thought. He knew that after marriage, he would not only have to protect Lin Wan'er, but also shoulder more responsibilities for the General's Mansion and continue to strive for the prosperity of Rong Kingdom. He secretly vowed to ensure that Lin Wan'er lived a happy life and never let her suffer any injustice.

Lin Wan'er was also contemplating her role change. She understood that as the general's wife, she could no longer roam the world as freely as before, but had to learn to manage the affairs of the general's mansion and face various challenges together with Xiao Yichen. She began to consult the elders in the mansion on how to manage a household and how to handle interpersonal relationships, preparing herself to become a qualified wife.

One day, Xiao Yichen brought Lin Wan'er to the outskirts of Rong Kingdom. There was a tranquil lake there, with crystal-clear water, surrounded by green mountains and trees, a truly beautiful sight.

“Wan’er, this place is quiet and peaceful. I think we can come here to stay often in the future, away from the hustle and bustle of the world,” Xiao Yichen said.

Lin Wan'er took a deep breath of the fresh air and smiled, "Excellent. Here, we can fully enjoy the gifts of nature, and our minds will be more at peace."

They strolled along the lake, watching the fish swim freely in the water, their hearts filled with anticipation for the future.

"Wan'er, do you still remember the first time we met?" Xiao Yichen suddenly asked.

Lin Wan'er nodded slightly: "Of course I remember. I admired you for your bravery and fearlessness on the battlefield back then."

Xiao Yichen held her hand: "From that moment on, I knew that you were the love of my life. Now that we are about to get married, I will spend my whole life protecting this love."

Touched, Lin Wan'er leaned on Xiao Yichen's shoulder and said, "Yichen, I would do the same. No matter what the future holds, we will face it together."

As the appointed wedding date approached, both the General's Mansion and the Imperial Palace were immersed in a busy and festive atmosphere. The General's Mansion was brightly decorated, with red lanterns hanging throughout the courtyard, exuding a joyous ambiance. Servants were busy cleaning and preparing food, making every effort to prepare for the wedding.

Inside the palace, officials from the Ministry of Rites meticulously planned every aspect of the imperial marriage ceremony. From the arrangement of the venue to the flow of the ceremony, from the invitation of guests to the preparation of gifts, every detail was carefully considered and discussed to ensure a grand and solemn occasion.

Amidst their busy preparations and anticipation, Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen quietly awaited the day their marriage would be bestowed upon them. They knew this would be a brand new beginning in their lives, and they would embark on a happy and fulfilling journey of marriage, blessed by everyone.