Chapter 494
Chapter 494 The Discovery at the Bottom of the Lake
"So it was actually 6,000 taels," Gao Qiu patted his own head, his face flushed with shame. "Look at my memory, how could I have mistakenly calculated an excess of more than 20,000 taels? Truly disgraceful. Brother Lin, you are a paragon of nobility and integrity, a role model for us all."
Qin Xian'er couldn't take it anymore. She glared at Gao Qiu and snapped, "Commander Gao, are you pretending I don't exist? We clearly spent only 2,000 taels, so why did you report 6,000 taels to my father? Do you not value your life?"
Cold sweat streamed down Gao Qiu's face. Not daring to talk back to the princess, he looked to Lord Lin for support.
Unexpectedly, Lin Wanrong laughed heartily. "Xian'er, how can you call this embezzlement? Commander Gao is not that kind of person! The truth is, we did throw 2,000 taels into the lake, but that's just the visible expense. There are other hidden costs, like transportation and overtime pay for Commander Gao’s men—those things also cost money."
Hearing his ridiculous explanation, Qin Xian'er burst into laughter. "Don't lie to me. All those transportation and labor costs are already covered by the military provisions, which my father has already provided. They have nothing to do with the 6,000 taels."
"Brilliant!" Lin Wanrong gave her a thumbs-up. "But consider this, Xian'er. What's a mere 6,000 taels compared to eliminating treasonous scum? This is a case of spending a little to achieve a lot. If it ensures the peace and security of the empire, not to mention 6,000 taels—even 60,000 or 600,000 taels would be acceptable. And look at me—" He waved his arms theatrically, pointing to the heavy bandages on his leg. "Your husband here is a disabled man who selflessly labors for the Emperor day and night. This small labor fee doesn't even cover my medical expenses!"
Moved by his words, Qin Xian'er lowered her head in shame and gripped his hand tightly. "You're right, my husband. You're so committed that you don't even take care of yourself. Taking a bit more money is justified. After all, my father’s money will eventually be yours anyway. Commander Gao, as you said, report 30,000 taels. After deducting expenses, the rest will serve as my husband’s hardship fee."
Gao Qiu quickly agreed, utterly impressed by Brother Lin’s ability to manage his wife.