Chapter 151
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While the Emperor and the cabinet ministers were still discussing the relevant decrees before their official release, rumors had already begun circulating in the streets. It was a probing tactic to gauge public opinion on the matter. However, before the news could spread too far, the provincial government of Jiangnan suddenly reported that a merchant agency was willing to donate ten million taels of silver.
This news shook the entire court.
Ten million taels was no small sum, even the Emperor’s eyes gleamed at the prospect. However, he became simultaneously cautious. When did such a wealthy merchant agency emerge within the Great Zhou Dynasty’s territory? This required strict supervision.
However, after the Ministry of Revenue presented the relevant accounts, everyone came to understand that this merchant agency had donated more than half of its wealth, leaving only the basic funds to barely operate the merchant agency. This level of dedication was unprecedented. Even for those who were accustomed to making donations, witnessing such a spirit of sacrifice was a first for many in the court. It touched everyone, and even the Emperor couldn’t help but nod in approval.
There were also reports that this merchant agency was involved in selling grains and medicines without raising prices. Moreover, they engaged in numerous relief efforts, assisting local authorities in controlling the disaster situation. Wherever the merchant agency was involved, the impact of the disaster was noticeably more manageable than in other regions. This was truly a significant achievement.
Amid the frustration caused by the disaster, the courtiers saw a glimmer of hope. If there were more agencies like this, everyone could collectively weather the storm. However, most were still dreaming of taking advantage of the situation to amass wealth. Even the sub-merchant agencies under the four major families wouldn’t be foolish enough to contribute themselves; at most, they would ensure not to miss out on any profits.
Currently, people only knew that this merchant agency was a recently established one called the “Chen Lan Merchant Agency.” It hadn’t met the formal criteria for establishing a merchant agency before, but its business had already reached a considerable scale.
The Emperor was highly satisfied with the Chen Lan Merchant Agency and decided to summon its master to the capital.
However, the reporting officials found themselves in a dilemma. “This person was once a criminal, subject to a ban. Your Majesty does not permit members of his family for three generations to set foot in the capital.”
Perplexed, the Emperor inquired, “Who is this person?” There had been quite a few bans issued during the handling of the former Crown Prince’s matter.
“It is the eldest grandson of the convicted criminal, the former Prince Zhen Bei, Liu Jingchen.”
Upon hearing this, the joyous expressions on the faces of the courtiers froze. This was the family personally dealt with by the Emperor. It was a related case to the matter of the former Crown Prince.
The Emperor’s expression on the Dragon Throne also went vacant for a moment, as if recalling someone, “Jingchen, ah, I remember him. He does have talent and could achieve such great deeds.”
The courtiers felt uneasy, unsure of the Emperor’s intimate words’ true meaning.
“How do you all feel about his actions?” The Emperor directly posed the question to the courtiers.
No one dared to express a clear opinion, keeping their responses ambiguous. Even the cabinet members who had previously discussed the specifics of rewarding actions didn’t dare to claim credit for this, intending to let the Emperor make the decision himself.
Ultimately, the Emperor ordered the summons of Liu Jingchen to the capital. Before his arrival, the Emperor had already dispatched trusted individuals to thoroughly investigate the Chen Lan Merchant Agency.
By the time Liu Jingchen reached the capital, the Emperor had obtained the results of the investigation.
The Liu family had indeed started conducting business in Jiangnan as soon as they arrived. Due to Liu Jingchen’s aptitude for commerce, their business grew rapidly, covering a wide range of industries. Particularly in the last year, their momentum was exceptionally strong, making lucrative investments in areas where others couldn’t see dividends. This success paved the way for the establishment of the Chen Lan Merchant Agency, making Liu Jingchen the youngest master of a major trading merchant agency in the Great Zhou Dynasty. If the current trajectory continued, the merchant agency was poised to become the largest in the dynasty.
However, at this critical moment, Chen Lan wasn’t focused on making money but rather on patriotic dedication. This generous donation had truly cost Chen Lan dearly, but fortunately, the merchant agency was newly established, and Liu Jingchen was the sole decision-maker. This allowed him to make the decision directly. Nevertheless, this act did hinder Chen Lan’s path to development, and they might have to start accumulating from scratch. If it weren’t for the affiliation with the Liu family, the Emperor would have been truly moved by the actions of this merchant agency.
Upon further investigation, Chen Lan’s tax contributions were flawless, and their business practices left no room for criticism. It was indeed a law-abiding and reputable merchant agency.
The Emperor, holding the gathered information, listened to the eunuch’s report and finally nodded, instructing them to bring Liu Jingchen in.
“The humble one pays respects to the Emperor, long live the Emperor for ten thousand years.”
The Emperor gazed down at Liu Jingchen, his eyes seeming somewhat distracted as if he wanted to see a certain person through Liu Jingchen.
The Emperor waved his hand, signaling Liu Jingchen to rise. “Jingchen, it’s been almost four years since you went to Jiangnan, right? Have you adapted well?”
Liu Jingchen displayed a respectful and humble demeanor. “Replying to Your Majesty, although Jiangnan is not as splendid as the capital, the environment is nurturing, and the scenery is pleasant. The humble one’s family quickly adapted. However, there remains a lingering sense of guilt in the heart.”
“Oh? Why do you feel guilty?” The Emperor’s gaze gradually became more scrutinizing.
“The entire Liu family carries sins, and at that time, I was still young and unable to prevent my family from making mistakes. It is a failure on my part to repay Your Majesty’s benevolence. If Your Majesty had not shown mercy back then, we would not have been able to settle down and make a living in Jiangnan. Whenever I think about it, I feel grateful for Your Majesty’s boundless kindness and can’t help but feel guilty. I often reflect on what more I can do to repay the imperial grace.”
Liu Jingchen’s words made the Emperor at least feel comfortable listening.
“So, you made such a generous donation? In fact, it wasn’t necessary. I know that all this comes from your hard work. While I hope merchants contribute, I only wish it to be within your capacity,” said the Emperor.
“Your Majesty, this is the heartfelt wish of our humble family. We only hope to alleviate Your Majesty’s momentary concerns. We will be overjoyed, and we also wish to help cleanse some sins from our elders. Money can be earned again. As long as Great Zhou needs it, as long as Your Majesty needs it, we will willingly contribute,” Liu Jingchen said.
The Emperor nodded, expressing satisfaction with his statement. Reflecting on the matters discussed with the cabinet earlier, the Emperor wasn’t inclined to give Liu family any additional rewards. After thinking for a moment, he said, “You have made significant contributions. If there is any wish you want to fulfill, I will do my best to satisfy you.”
Naturally, Liu Jingchen declined, expressing humility and gratitude. It was only after the Emperor insisted that he spoke, “Your subject… Your subject has not seen my aunt for many years. I have always known that my aunt is seriously ill but couldn’t be by her side. If Your Majesty allows, it would be an honor to be granted a day to visit my aunt with my family and also tend to the family cemetery.”
The Emperor hadn’t expected Liu Jingchen to make such a request. His initially stern heart softened a bit, possibly recalling the gentle and charming woman. “Have your family members come as well?”
“My family members haven’t received any summons, so naturally, they dare not step into the capital. They have never left Jiangnan before. This time, upon hearing that I could come, they accompanied me to the outskirts of the capital. They will wait from a distance to catch a glimpse and alleviate their homesickness. After everything is done, we will return to Jiangnan together,” Liu Jingchen explained.
The Emperor nodded in understanding.
The Liu family was no longer a cause for concern, and since Liu Jingchen had achieved such great merit, it seemed appropriate to lift their banishment. Additionally, considering the miraculous survival of Princess Yawen, who had severed ties with Marquis An Nan, having the Liu family by her side at the end could be seen as a comfort to Concubine Liu.
With these thoughts in mind, the Emperor immediately issued a decree to lift the restriction on their movements, allowing the Liu family to return to the capital. This was the reward granted to Liu Jingchen.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Liu Jingchen knelt on the ground and did not rise until the small eunuch assisted him out. It was only then that the Emperor softly spoke, “By the way, your cousin is currently in the palace. You can accompany him to visit County Princess Yawen.”
The sudden nervous reaction from Liu Jingchen did not escape the Emperor’s notice. However, he chose not to address it immediately.
“Heh, these little schemes can never escape my scrutiny,” the Emperor mused, a subtle smile playing on his lips.
From the Emperor’s perspective, the Fourth Prince’s proposal to reward merchants, though presented in a convoluted manner, must be related to Lin Qingyang. Lin Qingyang’s mother, County Princess Yawen, was certainly hoping for her maternal family to return to the capital. It was only natural for a dying person to yearn for the presence of their loved ones. Thus, the Emperor allowed Lin Qingyang to move freely within the palace while creating opportunities for Liu Jingchen to contribute in exchange for the chance to bring his family back to the capital.
The Emperor didn’t resent these subtle maneuvers, as the benefits they brought were relatively insignificant. Even if the Liu family returned to the capital, it would merely facilitate their business endeavors, and they would still be restricted from engaging in politics. Starting any significant waves would remain beyond their reach.
The earlier mention of Lin Qingyang served as a warning to Liu Jingchen, making it clear that the Emperor was well aware of their little schemes. Liu Jingchen’s fearful reaction satisfied the Emperor, indicating that their scheming capabilities had reached their limits, and they were firmly under his control.
Turning his attention away from the Liu family’s affairs, the Emperor focused on shaping public opinion. He highlighted the exemplary role of the Chen Lan Merchant Agency, encouraging other merchant agencies to swiftly contribute to disaster relief efforts.
As Liu Jingchen was escorted by the eunuchs, his emotions were difficult to conceal. He was taken to the Wenbo Pavilion to meet his younger cousin.
Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu had anxiously awaited news inside the room. Now, upon seeing Liu Jingchen, he appeared so overwhelmed with emotion that it startled Lin Qingyang. The usually elegant young master of the Chen Lan Merchant Agency was now in tears, displaying an unexpected and emotional side. This completely overturned Lin Qingyang’s mental preparation, and he found himself affected by the atmosphere, his eyes reddening.
However, when the eunuchs departed, and Chu Lishu closed the door, Liu Jingchen, who had been supporting himself on Lin Qingyang, suddenly let go and, with a faint expression, casually wiped the tears from the corners of his eyes as if wiping away sweat, appearing calm and relaxed.
Lin Qingyang stiffened, his hand frozen in mid-air, watching in astonishment. Chu Lishu couldn’t help but chuckle, quickly realizing the situation. He wished he could give a thumbs-up to Liu Jingchen for his Oscar-worthy acting skills.
“Cousin, Brother Chu, it’s been a long time. Thanks to both of you, the Liu family is returning to the capital.” Liu Jingchen finally raised a faint smile on his face, but within that smile, one could discern a hidden ambition.
Having heard the conversation in the court, Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but glance at Chu Lishu. Even the Emperor’s reactions were exactly as he predicted. It was uncanny. No wonder Liu Jingchen could deliver such a smooth performance—it turned out he had been guided by Chu Lishu all along.
“But… what if the Emperor really doesn’t give other rewards? The Chen Lan Merchant Agency would still suffer significant losses. If the financial chain accidentally breaks, it could lead to a total loss of family assets,” Lin Qingyang worried. Although Chu Lishu said that returning to the capital and receiving rewards would not be lacking, judging from the Emperor’s attitude today, it seems he thinks that providing a reward for returning to the capital is sufficient.
“It’s worth everything just to be able to come back,” said Liu Jingchen, quite open-minded. After all, he originally had no way of returning, and if it weren’t for Chu Lishu’s help, he wouldn’t know when this day would come. As for the promises made by Chu Lishu… although it seems a bit greedy, Liu Jingchen somehow feels that as long as Chu Lishu is determined, it will definitely be realized. After all, he has already accomplished many things that Liu Jingchen finds unbelievable.
Chu Lishu smiled at Lin Qingyang. “Don’t worry, this matter is not over yet, and it will be personally promoted by the Emperor. Let’s just wait and see. I won’t let cousin lose money.” Most of Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu’s money is invested in the Chen Lan Merchant Agency. If Chen Lan suffers losses, they will be in a difficult situation.
“I… I’m not afraid of losing money. I’m just curious about how we can claim those rewards.”
“This matter will take some time to unfold. Alright, since it has the Emperor’s approval, let’s inform the Fourth Prince first. Take a few days off in advance and bring your cousin home,” Chu Lishu said gently.
Lin Qingyang nodded and stood up. “Cousin, wait for us here. We’ll leave the palace in a little while.”
Since a while ago, Liu Jingchen has been a bit slow to react. Until now, his gaze shifted from his silly cousin’s face to Chu Lishu’s face, and he felt… subtle. He nodded. “Alright, I’ll wait for you.”
Even though the Fourth Prince was not happy about their early departure, he couldn’t obstruct the reunion of family members. Fortunately, he instructed them to visit the refugees when they had time and generously provided them access to his own treasury. Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu naturally accepted the offer.
When they left the palace and shared the carriage, Liu Jingchen finally noticed that these two people were even more intimate than when he last saw them leaving the capital. Especially the significant change in Chu Lishu’s attitude towards Lin Qingyang; there was a gentle tenderness in his every expression towards Lin Qingyang. Liu Jingchen remembered that his silly cousin seemed to be a homosexual person, could it be that their relationship had changed?
However, the reports from Qiu Qing did not mention anything about this, and Liu Jingchen could only quietly observe. They first went to the city gate to pick the people up.
This time, Lin Qingyang finally saw another relative from Liu Jingchen’s family, his elder aunt, but the legendary skilled martial artist, his little uncle, was absent.
Lin Qingyang’s elder aunt burst into tears upon seeing Lin Qingyang. Although Lin Qingyang had a terrible personality before, irritating everyone, she couldn’t help but express her emotions when seeing a long-lost relative. Especially since Lin Qingyang’s appearance and character had changed significantly, becoming mature and sensible, which made Aunt Liu both delighted and astonished. After a heartfelt conversation, they finally boarded the carriage.
It was only at this point that they learned the younger uncle had left to gain experience and couldn’t be reached. They left a message, anticipating his return to the capital.
Upon arriving at the other residence, emotions ran high once again. County Princess Yawen, overwhelmed with excitement, nearly fainted. She embraced Aunt Liu, and Lin Qinglan couldn’t hold back her tears while hugging Nanny Ding. Liu Jingchen’s gaze shifted from his aunt to Lin Qinglan, revealing complex emotions. Many old people from the former prince’s residence shed tears and shared laughter inside the residence.
That night, the family reunion turned into a celebration feast, celebrating the return of the Liu family to the capital.
The two sisters insisted on having a candlelit late-night chat, so Liu Jingchen escorted his slightly intoxicated mother to the County Princess Yawen’s residence. County Princess Yawen refrained from drinking, while Nanny Ding, having had her share of wine, spoke endlessly. The conversation eventually turned to the marriage prospects of their children.
Liu Jingchen, being an unmarried man of a certain age, became the primary target for Aunt Liu’s matchmaking efforts. However, their family’s circumstances posed a challenge; prestigious families were unwilling, and less reputable matches were undesirable. This dilemma had caused a delay in his marriage, and the presence of a clueless younger uncle only added to Aunt Liu’s headaches.
Meanwhile, on County Princess Yawen’s side, things were even more complicated. Her eldest daughter had experienced a bad marriage and suffered emotional trauma, while her younger daughter had a difficult temperament, causing a rift between them.
“In regards to Yang Yang, I can hardly recognize him now. A true young talent, and even a prince’s study companion. Many young ladies in the capital would be eager to marry him. Why hasn’t a marriage been arranged yet?” Aunt Liu expressed her concern.
County Princess Yawen looked troubled, “Yang Yang does have someone in his heart now. Unfortunately… marriage is not an option. Alas…”
“How so?” Aunt Liu immediately indulged her gossip instincts. The two had been close friends since their youth, and even more so after becoming relatives. County Princess Yawen, no longer holding back, revealed the truth.
Aunt Liu was immediately shocked, but seeing that Yawen had already given up resisting, she didn’t press further. She could only sigh in amazement.
Upon hearing the words “having a partner” as the door closed, Liu Jingchen couldn’t help but feel puzzled. When he encountered Qiuying and Aunt Ding on his way out, he couldn’t resist asking for more information.
Nanny Ding looked uneasy and sighed, “It’s just our young master being willful. Young Master Chu… is a good person. There’s nothing we can do.”
Stunned, Liu Jingchen immediately questioned Qiu Qing. Qiu Qing explained that the instructions from the young master were only about things that would harm Lin Qingyang and needed clarification. However, due to Nanny Ding and Lin Qingyang’s misguided thoughts, they believed that Lin Qingyang had hurt Chu Lishu. Chu Lishu, feeling compelled, agreed to their misconceptions, and so they ended up together. Hence, there was nothing to report.
Liu Jingchen couldn’t help but regret why he entrusted the task of watching Lin Qingyang to the naive Qiu Qing.
Then Qiu Qing dropped another bomb, suggesting that Lin Qingyang might have been hurt too. However, Nanny Ding told her that it was just a sign of a good relationship. Also, when considering the number of injuries, Chu Lishu seemed to get hurt more often, especially when hearing the old man from the pharmacy scolding people, particularly Lin Qingyang.
This news made Liu Jingchen regret his decision. Why did he assign the task of surveillance to Qiu Qing? He was more concerned about whether these two were really together.
Liu Jingchen couldn’t help but be a bit cautious. Although Chu Lishu had helped them a lot, his identity remained mysterious. How could he trust someone who refused to reveal his identity to take care of his naive cousin? Could it be a deception? But then again, what harm could come to his naive cousin?
And is Chu Lishu also a homosexual person? According to Nanny Ding and Qiu Qing, it seems like he wasn’t initially. Liu Jingchen couldn’t understand why a person with such ambition and cunning would willingly succumb to coercion. In his understanding, someone as capable as Chu Lishu wouldn’t easily allow themselves to be forced into compromising situations, especially when under pressure. Liu Jingchen became more suspicious and couldn’t resist the urge to talk to his younger cousin. However, when he arrived at the banquet venue, Lin Qingyang was nowhere to be seen. The servants avoided eye contact and informed him that the young master had already left. Without hesitation, Liu Jingchen went to find him.
There were no servants in the courtyard; they had been dispersed. The main door to the house wasn’t securely closed yet. As Liu Jingchen was about to knock, he heard a gasp from inside.
“Cousin… be gentle, it hurts.” (Chu Lishu)
“Mmm… cough, cough… I’ll be gentle.” (Lin Qingyang)
Those were the voices of Chu Lishu and Lin Qingyang.
Liu Jingchen’s expression froze, and he slowly stepped back, quickly leaving the scene. It seemed there was no need for further confirmation.
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