Ch. 631..635: The Princess of Northern Land Chapter 631-635

Chapter 631: Chapter 631: I Rule My Own Territory (5)_1

"Husband?" Chu Suifeng looked at her in confusion.

"Hehe, it means the same as ’my lord’." Lin Ziyin looked at him guiltily, but inside, she was mentally screeching in shock, My god, in my excitement, I blurted out a modern word.

"Now that you realize your mistake, this prince will forgive you." The two of them were laying side by side on the bed. Chu Suifeng placed her head on his arm to make her more comfortable. "By the way, I quite like the term ’husband’. Address me like that from now on."

Lin Ziyin rolled her eyes at him. This guy sure knew how to take advantage of her.

"In a couple of days, some bothersome flies from the capital will arrive here. If they bother you, don’t show them any goodwill." Suddenly remembering something important, Chu Suifeng warned Lin Ziyin.

"People are coming from the capital?" Lin Ziyin sat up in surprise.

"Hmm." Chu Suifeng, dissatisfied, pulled her back into his arms. "The third prince Chu and the fifth prince Rui. The former is a strong contender for the position of Crown Prince while the latter is part of the Crown Prince faction."

"What are they here for?" Lin Ziyin asked, puzzled. "They wouldn’t be coming here just to observe the ceremony, would they?"

"They don’t have that much spare time." Chu Suifeng responded lazily, burying his face in her hair.

Lin Ziyin was using a cold plum shampoo that smelled amazing. Every time Chu Suifeng got close to her, he savoured the fragrance.

"Are they here to discuss business?" Thinking of a possibility, Lin Ziyin sat up with excitement, only to be pushed back down by Chu Suifeng. "Lie down and stay put. Even if they’re here for business, we have to wait till they arrive. Why the hurry?"

Chu Suifeng was not happy that Lin Ziyin was more interested in other matters than him. He tried to redirect Lin Ziyin’s attention towards himself. "When we get married, there will be many guests at the residence. Officials from the city, regardless of their ranks, will be there. Officials from other provinces in the Northern Land will also send representatives with their gifts."

Lin Ziyin was not much concerned about the wedding. She trusted Chu Suifeng to have everything sorted out better than her. Besides, she wouldn’t have a say in the affairs of the residence anyway, and she preferred it that way.

Although they were not on the same page, Lin Ziyin found an opportunity to tease him. "Prince, I want to put those guys in their place."

Chu Suifeng’s face darkened instantly. "If you’ve decided to put those guys in their place, why are you still thinking about them? You haven’t even met them yet and you’re already interested in other men. Aren’t you afraid that this prince would get jealous?"

As a matter of fact, the prince was already showing signs of jealousy.

"Prince, from the way you’re talking, people who don’t know any better would think I’m a flirt who is always eyeing other men." Lin Ziyin glared at him through gritted teeth.

How irritating this man was! Just a bit of appreciation from her and he was already getting too carried away. She didn’t want to spend her life walking on eggshells because of his jealous temper.

If she didn’t put a stop to this right now, he would only continue to worsen. Every opportune moment, he would throw a tantrum.

"Who dares to spread rumors about the queen? See how this king beheads him." Seeing her flare up, Chu Suifeng immediately made a show of scolding.

Lin Ziyin was both annoyed and amused. She rolled her eyes at him, "Prince, this makes you look very immature."

Realizing that his cajoling was being seen through, Chu Suifeng slouched on the bed looking defeated. "Ah, marrying a clever queen is really troublesome. It won’t be easy to appease her whenever I mess up."

Seeing his serious appearance, Lin Ziyin couldn’t help but be amused.

"Prince, I’m curious. I’ve heard that the Crown Prince vehemently opposes the influx of goods from the Northern Land into Daqin. Why would he send an emissary here?"

Chapter 632: Chapter 632: I Rule My Own Territory (6)_1

"The King of Chu is a clever man and a cunning one too. He’s particularly crafty, so when you deal with him, be cautious. Otherwise, if you’re not careful, you might fall into his trap. Jiangnan, his rich fiefdom, surely provides him with ample silver, but no man would ever reject more. He’s an ambitious individual; the Jiangnan merchants transport goods back from the Northern Lands via water routes. Do you think he doesn’t know? This time, he’s coming with the intent to gain an advantage," Chu Suifeng analyzed for her.

"Humph, who said advantages are easy to take? If he wants to take one, he’d have to see if I’m willing. He’s wishful thinking," Lin Ziyin retorted, rolling her eyes dismissively.

Chu Suifeng burst into laughter. He derived pleasure from Lin Ziyin’s expressive face. "As for the King of Rui, he probably followed the Crown Prince’s directives, or more appropriately, the Emperor’s orders."

"Really?" Lin Ziyin asked with surprise, "The Emperor was clearly opposed to the flood of Northern goods into Daqin."

"As I said, no one ever shuns more silver. Perhaps my queen is unaware of how popular your factory’s products are in Capital City. Vegetable oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and seasonings have found their way into wealthy households, royal courts, and restaurants. Many people have already developed a taste for these distinct flavors. We have cut off their supply for three months, and the only available goods in the Capital City are from merchants who clandestinely trade with us. Now, tell me, who would want to go back to eating basic food after having tasted exotic cuisines for some time?" Chu Suifeng asked, wearing a slightly smug face.

All these excellent products were indeed the creations of his beloved queen. Let them be envied.

"The soy milk powder, milk powder, sesame paste, walnut powder, and even various cornstarch, sweet potato starch, and wheat flour used in pastries produced in the Northern Lands have become commonplace goods. If we stop supplying them, they will be desperate. More so, if those ladies get used to our cosmetics, can they dare to step outside without them? Once women make a fuss, men naturally won’t stay calm. Add woolen sweaters, yarn, down jackets, to the list. Which one isn’t a must-have for everyone? Not to forget mentioning the hot pot base that ’accidentally’ flooded into Capital City earlier, along with the ready-to-eat dried seafood, exotic mountain food, and various types of sugar."

"True, our products are top-notch. Even with sweet potatoes and wheat in their hands, they still can’t replicate our starch production process," Lin Ziyin said with a grin, "Even if they wanted to, they can’t buy the formula."

She was indeed confident. For items like soy milk and cow milk, just having the formula without the corresponding equipment would amount to nothing. Even sauces and vegetable oils are produced mechanically now. Even if the Emperor sent someone to find coal to power the machinery, it wouldn’t matter— the key is, the technology was within her control.

Taking another step back, even if they were able to deconstruct some of the technologies, it wouldn’t be a matter of concern. After all, there’s no comparison between manual production and machine production. History has proven that industrial revolution eventually replaced handcrafted products.

While the two inside the room were discussing serious matters, Lin Changshu lurked outside in the courtyard, pacing nervously and occasionally peeking towards Lin Ziyin’s courtyard.

"Both of you should stop worrying unnecessarily," Guo Huiniang scolded in annoyance, "Your sister is capable. The prince is discussing serious matters with her."

"If it’s serious business, why can’t they discuss it in the living room? Why must they go to Ziyin’s room? What if people find out and it tarnishes Ziyin’s reputation?" Zige retorted angrily.

"My sister-in-law is right, you’re just needlessly worrying. You understand the serious matters the prince and Ziyin are discussing? Besides, there are too many people here. What if someone overhears and the news gets out? Who would take responsibility then?" Wu Dayou gathered his courage to interject, "And considering there haven’t been any women in the Prince’s Residence for many years, his marital affairs can only be discussed with Ziyin in detail."

Chapter 633: Chapter 633: I Rule My Own Territory (7)_1

"Talk about what?" Zige still wasn’t convinced. "In a few days they will be formally wed, why is he taking advantage of our household?"

"Cough, cough, cough." The sound of deliberate coughing came from the entrance.

The argument in the room disappeared all at once.

"It’s late, and the young one needs rest. Everyone should leave," the patriarch ordered. Standing beside him was Changting, who also wore a solemn countenance.

"Grandfather, we shall retire for the night," Lin Changshu quickly stood up to assert himself.

"Grandfather, we were just about to take the baby and leave," Wu Dayou also rose to his feet.

Zige was just about to speak when Guo Huiniang promptly kicked her under the table. Zige immediately swallowed her words, and said, "We will retire for the night."

When Zige left, the old man turned to Lin Changshu and said, "Your wife is right. You are overexerting yourselves, worrying about needless matters."

With that, the old man turned and left with Changting.

Guo Huiniang let out a giggle and catching sight of Lin Changshu’s slightly reddened face, quickly turned her attention back to comforting the baby.

The Chu and Rui Princes stayed at the Wang Residence for three days without laying eyes on Chu Suifeng, which left them feeling a touch displeased.

However, aside from Chu Suifeng’s absence, Situ Gong and butler Bai Xian, along with the rest of the household, treated them very warmly. They couldn’t find so much as a single complaint.

"Such commitment from the Prince of Ling. With his wedding only days away, why is he still at the camp?" teased the Prince of Chu, as he took a bite of a frozen pear and chewed loudly.

"Attendance to public duty must be diligent, just like personal matters." The Prince of Rui said with a laughter, appearing to be in good spirits.

"Thank you for your concern, sirs. The prince should return in a few days," replied Situ Gong, showcasing his patience and gentle temper.

Busy with public duty? What a crock of shit.

People from Prince Chu and Prince Ru’s entourages had already collected information on the matter. There was no way Situ Gong believed their stories.

"I bring with me the Emperor’s decree. What should we do in the absence of the Prince of Ling?" Prince Rui asked Situ Gong with a questioning look.

"I do not know the whereabouts of His Highness either. Perhaps you should wait a bit longer," Situ Gong dodged the question.

"What decree are you talking about?" Just then, Chu Suifeng walked in with a stern expression, followed by a large group of men.

At one glance, the Princes identified the men following Chu Suifeng: Mei Hanqing, the Si family brothers, members of the Luo family. Some were familiar faces, while some were recognized from portraits.

Although they were brothers, this was the first time the three of them were seeing each other as adults. Princes Chu and Rui were sizing up Chu Suifeng.

Chu Suifeng entered the room without a hint of a smile, glanced at Princes Chu and Rui, and said, "Both of you move. This is my seat."

What was this supposed to mean? His words were not polite at all. Even the most patient guest would have their pride wounded by such an insult, especially when they were respected figures in the Capital City, accustomed to being fawned over. No one had ever disrespected them as Chu Suifeng just did.

The men following Chu Suifeng stifled their laughter, their eyes locked on Princes Chu and Rui with predatory intensity. It was clear that if the two didn’t immediately vacate their seats, the followers would reclaim the positions by force.

Prince Chu suddenly lost his appetite for the pear, and the smile vanished from Prince Rui’s face. They could begrudgingly concede their seats since they were in Ling’s residence, and it was fitting for the host to occupy the head of the table. However, there were two seats at the head of the table, and Chu Suifeng was insisting they vacate both. Was he planning to occupy both seats?

Chu Suifeng’s face darkened, completely devoid of humor, as if Princes Chu and Rui owed him a hefty amount of silver.

"Youngest brother, your hospitality is truly unique," Prince Chu laughed heartily, then with a resigned expression, rose to leave his seat.

Prince Rui also rose with a polite smile, and took an unoccupied seat. "Guests should comply with the host’s wishes."

Upon vacating their seats, Chu Suifeng immediately claimed the seats at the head of the table. Only then did his followers approach the Princes to pay their respects in an orderly fashion.

Seeing their manners, the Princes were slightly relieved. To be frank, they hadn’t seen Chu Suifeng for many years and their knowledge of him was limited to hearsay. If Chu Suifeng turned hostile that day, they had no idea how to react in his territory.

"The Prince of Ling has tasted victory and driven the Tatars from the Northern Lands. Every member of the Imperial Court can’t seem to praise him enough. Adding to that the imminent wedding, it’s a double blessing. I offer my congratulations first," Prince Rui said cheerfully. "In celebration, I brought some gifts. Please accept them as a token of my respect."

Having said that, he beckoned one of his guards who pulled out a gift register and presented it to them.

Chapter 634: Chapter 634: The Grand Wedding (1)_1

Situ Gong stepped forward to take the gift list and then stood smilingly behind Chu Suifeng.

"Do the two of you find war to be a joyful event?" asked Chu Suifeng coldly. Though his peach blossom eyes were indeed beautiful, they also exhibited an eagle-like intensity that was hard to look directly at.

"Ahem." Prince Chu, Chu Suifeng, was on the verge of speaking some emotional words to temper the atmosphere. He was also preparing to offer the gifts he brought. But before he could speak, he heard Chu Suifeng’s unsympathetic reply.

Rui Wang, who had come to give gifts, choked on his words and blushed with embarrassment. He had never imagined that Chu Suifeng would be so difficult, leaving him in a disadvantageous position despite presenting a gift.

What should he do? Upon seeing the looks cast from around the room, he wished the ground would swallow him up. "Ahem."

In fact, Chu Suifeng’s remark was a tough one to respond to. A careless reply might invite universal condemnation, especially given the presence of both civil and military officials loyal to Prince Ling.

"It is I who misspoke. War on the frontier is fought by the soldiers with their lives, even if we achieve victory, it’s not something I should be celebrating so pompously."

"Rui Wang, are you suggesting that our soldiers’ victory should not be celebrated?" Chu Suifeng asked piercingly, "Or are you dissatisfied with how I handle matters?"

Of course he was dissatisfied! But given the circumstances, he couldn’t afford the luxury of venting his anger. He had never been so stifled before in his life. He vowed that once he returned to the Capital City, he would definitely bring up Chu Suifeng in an "admirable" light in front of the Emperor.

"I was mistaken, truly mistaken. There were three intentions behind my gift. First, it is customary to give gifts on the occasion of Prince Ling’s wedding. This time, not only did I bring my own gifts, I also brought gifts from others in the Capital City, all listed in the gift ledger. Secondly, I respect and admire Prince Ling for leading the people and soldiers of the Northern Land to make great contributions to Daqin. Thirdly, it has been some time since we, as siblings, have seen each other. It’s only appropriate to bring some gifts." Rui Wang explained "sincerely".

"Well in that case, I thank you." The tone in Chu Suifeng’s voice finally began to soften.

This also put Rui Wang slightly at ease.

"But even so, don’t expect any reciprocal gifts from me. Unlike you, I am not wealthy." As soon as he let out his breath, Chu Suifeng took another jab at him.

All the officials lowered their heads to suppress their laughter. Good heavens! It was the first time they had seen Prince Ling so caustic.

If it weren’t for the formality of the occasion, they would all have clapped for him. Since everyone disliked both Chu Suifeng and Rui Wang, Chu Suifeng’s difficult treatment was like letting off steam for them. They had accumulated years of frustration from the Imperial Court, and it now finally started to alleviate.

Rui Wang nearly jumped, witnessing Chu Suifeng’s character for the first time. Chu Suifeng’s unconventional comments left him both amused and annoyed.

"No need, these few days I’ve tasted many delicacies at Prince Ling’s Residence, it has been enough." He responded politely with a smile, showing a good temperament.

"They’ve been staying at the Residence the whole time?’ Chu Suifeng glared at Situ Gong who was standing behind him.

Situ Gong wore a troubled expression on his face, "Your Highness, the post house has had no occupants for many years. I feared it would be inappropriate for the two Princes."

Upon hearing the conversation between the master and servant, Prince Chu suddenly had a feeling of foreboding.

"Haha, seventh brother, you’ve accepted Rui Wang’s gift, but I haven’t had a chance to give mine yet." He gestured, and a guard behind him handed over a gift list.

Chapter 635: Chapter 635: The Grand Wedding (2)_1

Situ Gong accepted it, took a glance, then handed it to Chu Suifeng.

Chu Suifeng had just received the presentation list from Prince Rui, but never bothered to open it. Now that he received King Chu’s list, he reviewed it earnestly. "Hmm, as expected, King Chu is indeed generous. The gifts are quite plentiful, not bad."

A more radiant smile spread across King Chu’s face. Ha, doesn’t he know his territory? That is Jiangnan, the richest land in Daqin.

It turns out that Chu Suifeng is not that difficult to deal with. As long as he is willing to fork out, this trip would definitely not be for nothing.

Then, Chu Suifeng picked up the presentation list from Prince Rui again and looked it over. When he looked up again, the soft expression on his face had reverted back to its original stony facade.

Subsequently, his sullen gaze swept back and forth between King Chu and Prince Rui.

King Chu and Prince Rui did not understand his intentions. Just as the smiles on their faces were about to falter, Chu Suifeng finally spoke, "King Chu’s gifts are much more substantial than Prince Rui’s."

Upon hearing these words, Prince Rui’s smile could no longer hold, already feeling aggrieved. This has been the most humiliating thing he has done in his life. If he had known Chu Suifeng was going to be this difficult, he would have come empty-handed, to spare himself from the repeated rejections even after offering gifts.

Prince Rui, driven to distraction by Chu Suifeng, could hardly sit still. But his status as a member of the Royal Family attending this event did not allow him to lose his temper. He was here with a big responsibility to win over Chu Suifeng.

Despite the curses storming in his mind, Prince Rui maintained a forced smile, "Ahem, it’s just that I am much poorer than King Chu. Among our estates, only King Chu’s is the most affluent. If King Chu’s gifts were less significant than mine, wouldn’t that be a slap in his face?"

A few words alleviated the awkwardness.

Everyone was speechless and inwardly admiring Prince Rui. He truly was a master of internal power struggles. Look at how he skillfully turned the tables on King Chu in just a few sentences.

King Chu looked at Prince Rui with a slight smile, "My estate, to be precise, is only slightly better than yours. It’s hardly the most affluent."

"Are you saying that King Chu is looking down on me?" Before Prince Rui could come up with a retort, Chu Suifeng had already spoken up. Furthermore, there was a clear undertone of anger in his voice.

Chu Suiyun was not intimidated, still maintaining his lustrous smile, "Seventh Brother, what do you mean? I can’t seem to grasp your point. The gifts I sent are richer than Prince Rui’s. Could sending generous gifts be a wrong thing in this day and age?"

The humorous tone made it hard for anyone to get angry.

But who was Chu Suifeng? He had made up his mind to play the role of a brute in this matter. Chu Suiyun’s friendly gesture was meaningless to him. "King Chu’s estate is in Jiangnan, a place rich in resources. Compared to Prince Rui, the gifts may indeed appear to be generous. However, for someone of King Chu’s standing, these gifts are little more than handouts to beggars."

Such shamelessness! Chu Suiyun had never seen someone so audaciously demanding. It seemed like his gift-giving had led to even more trouble.

Meanwhile in contrast, Prince Rui felt relieved; Chu Suifeng was not specifically targeting him. Now, he could sit back and watch Chu Suiyun’s misfortune.

"Hmm, it seems that I did not consider things thoroughly. How about this, the next time I come to the Northern Land, I will make up for it." King Chu was indeed a shrewd man; he did not want to pick a fight with Chu Suifeng at this point.

Seeing the other party retreat, Chu Suifeng finally did not press on.

"You both are here to attend the rites?" He asked coldly, his gaze on the two.