After nearly ten days at home, the faint traces of bruising on Shao Yunan’s face indicated that it was time for him to return to the capital. Big brother Guo had already purchased all the red sour fruits in Yongxiu County, and Jiang Kangning, in his capacity as the Prefect of Chisou Prefecture, also ordered the various counties under his jurisdiction to purchase red sour fruits. However, due to transportation constraints, the fruits purchased from areas far from Yongxiu County were mostly semi-ripe, as transporting fully ripe fruits to Yongxiu County would cause spoilage. Apart from a portion of the new tea being sold directly by the Yunlong Group, Yongxiu County and Chisou Prefecture also sold a portion of it as an achievement, with the profits from this portion, after deducting taxes, all used by Jiang Kangning for road repairs. As a result, there was no shortage of impeachment letters against Jiang Kangning being submitted to Emperor Yongming.

It must be said that Emperor Yongming was truly an enlightened ruler. Shao Yunan had once told Jiang Kangning that to become wealthy, one must first build roads. Jiang Kangning deeply understood this. If the transportation throughout Chisou Prefecture was highly developed, then the amount of new tea produced throughout the entire region this year could be transported to Yongxiu County in the shortest time possible, resulting in a vast quantity of new tea. But precisely because of the inconvenience of transportation, a large amount of tea in Chisou Prefecture was wasted. Due to the inability to transport it out, even if it could be transported, it would spoil because the distance to Yongxiu County was too far, and the newly picked tea would go bad if not handled promptly. The technology for new tea was still premature for widespread use, and facilitating transportation was the first priority for expanding the sales of new tea.

Jiang Kangning vigorously developed transportation within Chisou Prefecture, especially transportation to Yongxiu County. Inadvertently, Yongxiu County had become the most economically developed area within Chisou Prefecture. As demand rose, property prices in Yongxiu County continued to soar. With his commercial acumen, Shao Yunan had suggested to Jiang Kangning, while he was still the County Magistrate of Yongxiu County, to build a commercial district in the name of the government, and Shao Yunan had even purchased several properties in Yongxiu County in his and Jiang Kangning’s personal names.

Commercial district, although not yet completed, Jiang Kangning has returned to Chisou Prefecture for work, but with Guo Ziyu in charge, Jiang Kangning and Shao Yunan’s joint commercial vision is still operating smoothly and rapidly. Now, the unfinished commercial district has attracted the desire of countless merchants to settle in. The shops in the commercial district are only for lease, not for sale. Among them, the Yunlong Group occupies thirty percent of the shops, while Shao Yunan himself owns eight shops, four of which belong to Jiang Kangning. However, to avoid suspicion, they are registered under Shao Yunan’s name. Jiang Kangning is a good official, but not rigid. He understands the principle that clear water allows no fish to survive. He doesn’t embezzle, but he doesn’t refuse to make some money for himself using his position’s convenience.

If Jiang Kangning’s plan to repair roads in Chisou Prefecture can be fully implemented, then the geographical location of Yongxiu County and the economic value contained in its shops, as long as one is not foolish, can see its terrifying potential. Yongxiu County is the economic center constructed by Chisou Prefecture at great expense, and similarly, Chisou Prefecture, which has relatively convenient transportation conditions in the Great State of Yan, is undoubtedly the economic center that Emperor Yongming wants to create in Yan. Once the economic strength of Chisou Prefecture is enhanced, the economy of the surrounding areas centered around Chisou Prefecture will also be driven up. Not to mention that Jiang Kangning is ambitious, even Emperor Yongming is ambitious. With no worries about the health of the Empress, and now that the Empress is pregnant again, Emperor Yongming is itching for action.

However, in just one year, the atmosphere in Yongxiu County has undergone earth-shaking changes. Economic growth has led to an increase in the income of the common people. The once somewhat bleak streets are now bustling with activity, which surprised Shao Yunan when he first visited Yongxiu County after returning to the capital. After Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan returned, whether it was Guo Ziyu or Kang Rui, they always returned to Loyal and Brave Village for any matters. Wang Shijing was fine because he was a marquis and couldn’t hide in Loyal and Brave Village all the time. He had come to the county twice, and had meals with the well-known aristocracy and merchants of Yongxiu County twice. Shao Yunan, on the other hand, was visiting the “city” for the first time.

The two of them came here this time for one reason: Chen Lao Ban’s fleet had returned, bringing back a large quantity of goods from the Kingdom of Das. They came to see if there was anything valuable. For Chen Lao Ban, the things he brought back were definitely rare in the Great State of Yan, after all, he was a merchant. But he couldn’t be sure if these rare items would catch the eyes of Loyal and Brave Marquis or Wang madam. Everyone knew that Wang Shijing owed his current position to Shao Yunan. Shao Yunan’s discerning eye for unusual goods was probably unmatched in the entire Great State of Yan.

It was also fortunate timing for Chen Lao Ban. If he had returned a few days later, Shao Yunan’s economic journey to the capital would have already begun. To be honest, Shao Yunan really wanted to see the goods brought back by Chen Lao Ban from the Kingdom of Dasi. If he went to the capital, he could only see them through Eunuch An, and the variety might not be complete, after all, many of the things Chen Lao Ban brought back belonged to him personally, not the Yunlong Group.

The carriage stopped at the entrance of Chen’s residence, and Chen Lao Ban, who had been waiting at the entrance, immediately came forward. After the carriage stopped, he personally lifted the curtain.

“Marquis, Madam.”

“Master Chen.”

Wang Shijing got off the carriage first and then went to help Shao Yunan. Chen Lao Ban also felt extremely emotional seeing Wang Shijing again. The last time they met, their identities were still equal, and in a sense, his status was even higher. Now, the other party was already a marquis. Chen Lao Ban couldn’t deny that he felt a bit envious and jealous.

He respectfully led the two inside the house. In the hall, a seated person stood up immediately after the three entered. The person had a thin face, a steady demeanor, and wise eyes. Seeing him, Shao Yunan felt a vaguely familiar feeling, but he was sure he had never seen the person before.

The person bowed and introduced himself: “I am Wei Hongru. I have met the Marquis and Madam.”

Wei Hongru?!

Shao Yunan subconsciously looked at Wang Shijing and saw the same surprise in his eyes. Wang Shijing returned the greeting: “So it’s Lord Wei. I’ve heard of you.”

“Marquis, you’re too kind. I’m just a commoner now. I have to thank you and Madam for your kindness.” What kindness, Wei Hongru didn’t say, but Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan understood a bit, but couldn’t tell if the words had a hidden meaning. After all, the current situation of the Wei family in Hengyuan Marquis’s residence was somewhat related to Shao Yunan.

Wang Shijing treated Wei Hongru’s words as sincere and said lightly: “Lord Wei and I are both serving His Majesty and the Empress. Calling you ‘Lord’ is well-deserved.”

Chen Lao Ban immediately chimed in: “Marquis is absolutely right.” Then, he ingratiatingly smiled: “Shall we sit down and talk?”

Wang Shijing: “No rush, the Marquis and Madam would like to see the goods Chen Lao Ban brought back from the Kingdom of Dasi first.”

Chen Lao Ban looked at Wei Hongru, who nodded, and immediately reached out to lead the way: “Marquis, Madam, please.”

The two followed Chen Lao Ban to the back, and on the way, Shao Yunan muttered to himself. He knew that the Empress had entrusted the business with the Kingdom of Dasi to Wei Hongru. Could Wei Hongru’s words just now be harboring resentment towards him and his brother? Shao Yunan remembered that his foster father had said that Wei Hongru was a capable person, able to firmly hold the position of Hengyuan Marquis’s heir in such a complicated and difficult environment in Hengyuan Marquis’s residence. He couldn’t be a useless person, otherwise, the Empress wouldn’t have kept him. But he didn’t know if Wei Hongru’s attitude towards them was the same as Wei Hongwen’s.

The Chen residence was extremely large, and it took the four of them a while to reach the warehouse where Chen Lao Ban displayed the goods. Although it was called a warehouse, it was just a very large room. There were a large number of goods brought back this time, and the Chen residence couldn’t accommodate them all. Chen Lao Ban placed the samples in the house. Whether all the samples were here was unknown.

Chen Lao Ban and Wei Hongru brought back a wide variety of goods, not all of which were needed. Shao Yunan had mentioned wanting to know what kind of things the Kingdom of Dasi had, so Chen Lao Ban bought back everything he could find there, even though many seemed useless. However, since they were favored by the Empress, he was obliged to do so. Now, Chen Lao Ban was very satisfied with his decision. Shao Yunan was not only favored by the Empress, but he was practically the Empress’s nephew!

The Kingdom of Dasi was surrounded by the sea and had abundant marine resources. Shao Yunan wasn’t curious about pearls and other marine products. Seeing his indifferent look, Chen Lao Ban and Wei Hongru were surprised. Both of them were well-traveled, and many things here were not found in the Great State of Yan at all. What was the reason for Shao Yunan’s obvious familiarity? Wang Shijing was also calm, but occasionally showed some curiosity, which was normal.

When they saw shark fins, Shao Yunan stopped in his tracks, and Chen Lao Ban immediately said: “This thing is the dorsal fin of a large fish in the sea. People in the Kingdom of Dasi like to eat it. It’s said to have…” Chen Lao Ban coughed twice: “aphrodisiac effects.”

Wang Shijing raised his eyebrows, but Shao Yunan said with disgust: “Whether this thing is an aphrodisiac or not, I don’t know, but I do know that eating this is completely sinful.”

“Oh, why is that? Have you tried it, Madam?”

Shao Yunan didn’t answer but said: “This is called shark fin. You mentioned a big fish called a shark. Do you know how shark fin is obtained?”

Chen Lao Ban shook his head.

Shao Yunan said: “After catching the shark, they cut off the fin while it’s still alive, then throw the shark back into the sea. Do you think a shark without its dorsal fin can survive?”

Chen Lao Ban shuddered: “Isn’t that cruel?”

“That’s exactly it. So, for the sake of accumulating blessings for future generations, it’s better to eat less of this thing. Yunlong Group will never sells shark fins. Chen Lao Ban, whether you want to do this business, you should consider it carefully.”

Chen Lao Ban immediately shook his head: “Forget it then.”

Whether it was because Shao Yunan didn’t like it or because of the so-called accumulation of blessings, Chen Lao Ban didn’t intend to do the shark fin business. If you want to enhance virility, why not eat pig kidneys?

Shao Yunan continued to look, and the pearls from the Kingdom of Das were of very good quality. Shao Yunan asked: “Don’t we have coastal areas in the Great State of Yan? Do we produce pearls?”

Chen Lao Ban shook his head, but Wei Hongru continued: “Many of the coastal areas in the Great State of Yan are inhabited by barbarians and are undeveloped. Even if there are pearls, we can’t obtain them. We can only trade for them in those areas. But the demand for pearls is very high, and most of the pearls in the Great State of Yan are purchased from the Kingdom of Dasi and the Kingdom of Xianlu. The Kingdom of Dasi is the largest supplier. However, this time, our new tea is priced unusually high, so merchants from the Kingdom of Dasi have lowered the price of pearls in order to obtain our new tea.”

Shao Yunan was puzzled: “Why is that? The higher their pearl prices, the more advantageous the exchange, right?”

Wei Hongru said: “Our new tea is limited in quantity, and we only exchange goods. Although pearls are good for assisting in the exchange, there are more valuable things than pearls. The right to exchange for new tea is not something that can be obtained with just a few pearls.”

Shao Yunan understood immediately. This was similar to the right to enter an auction house; having money didn’t guarantee you an opportunity. Indeed, they were cunning merchants. Shao Yunan forgot whether he was any better than Wei Hongru and Chen Lao Ban.

“Then don’t we have any coastal areas that we can use directly?”

“We do, but the area is not large.”

As long as there was, it was good. Shao Yunan kept the idea of artificially cultivating pearls in his mind, which he could discuss with the Empress when he returned to the capital this time. It was surprising that the demand for pearls in the Great State of Yan was so high. Why bother with Dasi at a cheaper price? Shao Yunan now had no good feelings towards the people of Dasi. Shao Yunan didn’t understand artificial pearl cultivation, but he had seen it before. Since he didn’t understand it, he could explore it, he would surely find a way, at most, it would require time and money.

Among the seafood, Shao Yunan was very interested in sea cucumber, scallops, and kelp. When he saw the very good quality fish maw, he said: “This thing is good. Is it expensive?”

Chen Lao Ban was very surprised: “This thing is complimentary.”

“Complimentary?”

“Only poor people in Dasi eat this. This is the swim bladder of a big fish.”

Shao Yunan was dumbfounded: “This is a very good thing, much more nourishing than your shark fins, especially for women. And this is called fish maw!” What swim bladder, it was too unprofessional!

Chen Lao Ban’s eyes immediately lit up. If this thing was free in Dasi, he must find a way to get more.

“Yunlong Group should buy more.”

Chen Lao Ban volunteered: “Why not let me handle it, Madam?”

Shao Yunan said: “I don’t participate in the business of Yunlong Group. You can discuss with Lord Wei how to purchase.”

“Okay, okay.”

The production of gemstones in Dasi Kingdom was not large, mainly various pearls and corals, among which there were not a few valuable red corals. However, deeply influenced by modern environmental awareness, Shao Yunan did not show the willingness to purchase a large amount of beautiful red corals. If red corals were replaced with rubies, Shao Yunan might be tempted, but as one of the marine resources, Shao Yunan hoped they would stay quietly in the sea.

A lot of things were brought from the Kingdom of Dasi, among which were some items worth purchasing. When Shao Yunan walked up to a pile of various ores, everyone was somewhat surprised. Chen Lao Ban said: “These were proposed to be collected by Lord Wei. The Kingdom of Dasi has copper, iron, and gold mines, as well as some that we don’t recognize. Lord Wei said they might be useful, but the Kingdom of Dasi strictly prohibits their sale. These are all exchanged secretly by us.”

Indeed, they were worthy of being from a noble family, but it could also be under the instructions of Emperor Yongming or the Empress. As for the practices of the Kingdom of Dasi, Shao Yunan also understood. It seemed that regardless of the dynasty, those in power were extremely strict about controlling mineral resources. Shao Yunan didn’t study minerals, but he still recognized iron ore, gold ore, and copper ore. Thinking of iron ore, Shao Yunan picked up a heavy piece of iron ore. From the appearance, the iron content of this iron ore seemed to be very high, but Shao Yunan always felt something was off.

Chen Lao Ban said: “This is called patterned iron. It was plundered by the Kingdom of Dasi from the barbaric islands and used for decoration in the Kingdom of Dasi.”

“Decoration?”

Shao Yunan was very surprised. Ironware used for decoration?

Chen Lao Ban picked up a cup made of this patterned iron decoration and said: “This type of iron naturally comes with patterns and looks very good.”

Shao Yunan took the cup. When he saw the patterns on the cup, his mind buzzed, and adrenaline surged rapidly in his brain. Wang Shijing’s eyes involuntarily narrowed, and he reached out and took the cup from Shao Yunan’s hand. Having already finished reading all the books on weapons in Shao Yunan’s space, he tried hard to restrain a certain impulse in his heart.

Shao Yunan took a deep breath and pretended boldly: “Using ironware for decoration, it’s the first time I’ve seen it. Why don’t they use this kind of iron to make utensils?”

Wei Hongru spoke up at this time: “The smelting technology of the Kingdom of Dasi is very poor. They seem to think that this type of iron is not as good as the iron ore produced locally, plus this iron has patterns, so it is mostly used for decoration.”

“I see. Where is that Barbaric Island?”

Wei Hongru said: “It is said to be at the southern end of our Great State of Yan. The people of the Kingdom of Dasi are proficient in sailing, and they can reach many sea lands that we cannot.”

Shao Yunan nodded: “I see. This cup is quite novel. Chen Lao Ban, do you mind if I take one?”

“Madam, whatever you like, take it.”

“Then I’ll take all the items made of this patterned iron.”

“…No problem!”

After confirming the goods that needed to be imported in large quantities from the Kingdom of Dasi, Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan patiently had lunch with Chen Lao Ban and Wei Hongru. The two then made an excuse that Shao Yunan would be returning to the capital soon and had many things to attend to. They brought back over a dozen patterned iron vessels and decorations obtained from Chen Lao Ban to Loyal and Brave Village. As soon as they returned, they hid in their room.

“Wife, are you sure?”

“I’m not sure if this is Wootz steel, but Wootz steel does indeed have natural patterns. Let’s search in the space. Didn’t I have a Damascus sword?”

“Okay!”

Shao Yunan brought Tiger Brother out of the space and let him guard the door while he and Wang Shijing entered the space. The two found two Damascus scimitars from the weapons pile in the space and compared them with the vessels made of patterned iron. From the patterns on the iron vessels, there were obvious similarities between the two. But perhaps due to different craftsmanship, the patterned iron was not as delicate and hard as the Damascus scimitar.

“I estimate that these two Damascus scimitars of mine were forged with modern craftsmanship. The ancient true Damascus scimitars are not something I can obtain. Now the most important thing is to test whether this patterned iron is Wootz steel. If it is, then we might be able to produce Wootz steel and forge sharp weapons!”

Wang Shijing said solemnly: “This matter is of great importance and must be reported to the Emperor in person.”

Shao Yunan said: “Organize the relevant books and hand them over to Brother Xi when we return to the capital.”

Wang Shijing said in a low voice: “Wife, let me go back to the capital with you.”

Shao Yunan thought for a moment and said: “I’ll go back first. If it is confirmed that this is Wootz steel, the Emperor will surely let you return to the capital in advance. As for the wine-making business, let’s leave it all to Brother Guo.”

“Okay!”

Regarding the military preparations of the Great State of Yan, neither Shao Yunan nor Wang Shijing could afford to take it lightly. They packed their belongings overnight and the next day, Wang Shijing went to see Mr. Chen again. That night, escorted by a hundred Imperial Guards, Shao Yunan, embarked on the journey back to the capital. Brother Tiger also accompanied him. Surprisingly, Wei Hongru was also traveling to the capital with them. Wei Hongru was supposed to report the details of this trip to the Empress in person. While Master and Madam Cen, Master. and Madam Weng, Madam, and Master. Zheng decided to stay in Loyal and Brave Village. Wu Jian was quietly recuperating in the mansion, and he would be taken back when Wang Shijing returned to the capital.

The emotions of Wang Shijing, Shao Yunan, and Wei Hongru were complex. From the heir of the Marquis Mansion to a person bearing guilt, the relationship between Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan was significant. However, the “disaster” of the Hengyuan Marquis Mansion ultimately stemmed from the Marquis himself. Nonetheless, Shao Yunan’s display of erudition that day greatly impressed Wei Hongru. How could someone like Shao Yunan, who had been wandering since childhood and then settled in Shao Village, know more than him, a young master raised in a prestigious family? Let alone about things related to the Great State of Yan.

Wei Hongru somewhat understood why his younger brother, Wei Hongwen, had such a significant change in attitude after meeting Shao Yunan. There are always people beyond comparison. Shao Yunan seemed to give him the impression of being one of those incomparable individuals.

The journey went smoothly, perhaps due to the presence of Brother Tiger and the one hundred heavily armed Imperial Guards. It could be said that Emperor Yongming and the Empress were extremely cautious about Shao Yunan’s safety. Throughout the journey, Wei Hongru’s attitude towards Shao Yunan transitioned from formalities to gradually admiring him. His inner thoughts were not something he would share with others. Before reaching the capital, Wei Hongru had already abandoned the notion that Shao Yunan was “just a country bumpkin,” replaced only by deep confusion. How could someone like him be a country bumpkin? Even Wei Hongru was somewhat envious of Wang Shijing’s good fortune.

The ship arrived at the dock, and the people sent by the palace were already waiting there. It could be said that Shao Yunan was under strict protection all the way from Loyal and Brave Village to the palace. That night, as soon as Shao Yunan and his entourage appeared, the city gates, which had already been closed, were immediately opened under the command of the city defense officer. Shao Yunan went directly to the palace under the escort of the Imperial Guards.

To Shao Yunan’s surprise, upon entering the palace, he was taken to the Empress Palace, where not only the Empress was present but also the Emperor. Seeing such a grand reception, Shao Yunan was a bit dumbfounded. Did they really need to welcome him back with such extravagance?

Shao Yunan and Su Chenyi bowed and greeted the Emperor and the Empress. The Empress spoke gently to Su Chenyi: “Sister-in-law, you must have had a hard journey. I’ve been worried about Yunan, eager to see him. It must have been exhausting for you.”

Su Chenyi immediately replied: “Your Highness, your words make me feel unworthy. Your Highness is currently pregnant, and both Yunan and I are deeply concerned.”

The Empress placed her hand gently on her belly, her face emitting what Shao Yunan perceived as the “radiance of motherhood,” sending shivers down his spine involuntarily. The Empress said: “Sister-in-law, please rest first. Stay in the palace for two days before returning home. There are some matters I need to discuss with Yunan, and then we’ll rest as well.”

“If Your Highness prioritizes your health, then I’ll take my leave.”

Eunuch Jin escorted Su Chenyi out. After they left, the Empress spoke with a slightly more serious tone: “Yunan, your elder brother, Zhan is coming back.”

“What?” Shao Yunan instinctively turned to look in the direction of the door. Zhan Xiao was coming back, so why did the Empress divert his little uncle’s attention?

The Emperor spoke up at this point: “The Huhar Kingdom intends to negotiate with our country and has sent an envoy. Your uncle and your father suspect foul play and have tasked Zhan Xiao with escorting the envoy to the capital, but in reality, to monitor them. Your father has already sent an urgent report to inform us. The Huhar Kingdom is an old enemy of ours. Their sudden dispatch of an envoy can’t help but make us suspicious.”

Empress continued: “Both His Majesty and I suspect that the Huhar Kingdom’s actions might conceal ulterior motives. The Dasi Kingdom, the Xianlu Kingdom, and the Great Mountain Tribe have all sent envoys to the capital, all for the tea and the sacred water. The Huhar Kingdom couldn’t possibly remain silent. Their envoy this time consists of more than five hundred people, and according to confidential information, around three hundred of them are likely the personal guards of the Huhar Kingdom’s monarch.”

The Huhar Kingdom was known for its formidable military strength, and the personal guards of their monarch were elite. If they sent three hundred elites to Great State of Tan, how could Emperor Yongming turn a blind eye?

Shao Yunan didn’t understand why Emperor Yongming and the Empress would tell him about such an important national matter, but perhaps it was a sign of their trust in him. Shao Yunan calmly said: “When the enemy comes, we meet them head-on. Even if they have any intentions, they won’t succeed within our borders. The most crucial thing now is Your Highness’s health. We mustn’t let them disrupt Your Highness.”

Emperor Yongming’s expression changed drastically. He hadn’t considered this! The Empress also showed a cold expression, as his unborn child was a thorn in the eyes of many. At this moment, Shao Yunan stepped forward, took out a pearl from his pocket, and said with a smile: “Uncle, congratulations on your pregnancy. After much consideration, I think it’s most suitable to give this to you, to bless you and our little nephew with safety.”

In Shao Yunan’s palm was a Buddha relic. Both Emperor Yongming and the Empress instantly softened. The Empress said: “This is what you need.”

“But I still have one more.”

Emperor Yongming hurriedly said: “Empress, you keep it. You mustn’t have any mishaps now.”

Bravely, Shao Yunan took two steps forward, took the Empress’s hand, and placed the pearl in her hand. The Empress was amused by his rough gesture but somewhat moved and said: “Then I won’t be polite with you.”

Shao Yunan said: “You must wear this close to your body.”

Eunuch Jin immediately fetched a small pouch and handed it to the Empress. He put the pearl in the pouch and wore it around his neck. Then he explained: “Your elder brother’s return to the capital will surely excite your little uncle. It’s late now; you can tell him tomorrow.”

“Understood.”

Collecting himself, Shao Yunan lowered his voice: “Your Majesty, Your Highness, I have important matters to report this time.”

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongming immediately ordered Zhuo Jin and the others to withdraw. After ensuring their safety, Shao Yunan revealed the matter of the patterned iron.

 

Edited by: Jaisland

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