Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 1190 - 176: Prince Wei Governs the Nation

Zhao Yao deliberately ceased paying any mind to the contention between Prince Chu and Prince Wei. He feared that continued observation might ignite an impulse within him to interfere. He therefore immersed himself in his own endeavors: conducting research experiments, generating income through extensive foreign trade, and spearheading crucial infrastructure development projects.

Throughout the preceding year or two, the Swamp Prefecture underwent transformations so profound that they were nothing short of earth-shattering. It blossomed into a region even more prosperous and vibrant than before, drawing an ever-increasing influx of merchants and settlers. This surge in activity, quite naturally, also attracted a significant number of foreign visitors.

Currently, the sheer affluence and bustling activity of Swamp Prefecture have long since eclipsed those of the capital. Moreover, its prosperity now even surpasses that of Yangzhou, establishing it as the wealthiest and most commercially active port prefecture within the entirety of Great Zhou.

Initially, Zhao Yao had projected a timeline of five years to outshine the capital and a decade to surpass Yangzhou. To his surprise, however, it took less than half that time to overshadow all other prefectures.

The Swamp Prefecture of today stands not only as the most flourishing and dynamic prefecture but also as the most aesthetically beautiful prefectural city.

A remarkable abundance of flowers adorns Swamp Prefecture, utilized to beautify countless locations and elements. Strolling down any given street within the prefecture, one cannot escape noticing floral arrangements, whether positioned in the center or flanking both sides of the thoroughfare. The various shopfronts and courtyards lining these streets are equally resplendent, overflowing with an array of diverse blossoms.

As one ambles along the thoroughfares, it becomes apparent that individuals, irrespective of their age or gender, proudly wear flowers in their hair.

This charming custom of adorning one's hair with flowers was, in fact, initiated by Zhao Yao himself. He drew inspiration from the men of the Song Dynasty as depicted in a dream-vision he once experienced. Subsequently, scholars who successfully passed the imperial examinations also adopted the practice, and in this manner, the custom gradually permeated and became widely embraced throughout Swamp Prefecture.

Furthermore, Zhao Yao innovated the creation of exquisite flower pastries, which swiftly rose to become one of the renowned sweet delicacies of Swamp Prefecture.

Beyond the confines of Swamp Prefecture, other prefectures within the Lingnan region have likewise experienced significant improvements. Several years prior, Zhao Yao had already consolidated his control over the entirety of Lingnan. Bandits, persistent rebels, corrupt officials, and an entrenched bureaucracy were all decisively dealt with. Consequently, the lives of the populace across various locales have now become affluent, with virtually no one inclined to resort to banditry or embrace a perilous existence.

During this transformative period, Zhao Yao, adopting a guise of anonymity, embarked on extensive tours to personally inspect the diverse prefectures spread across Lingnan. His objective was to gain an authentic understanding of the populace's lives, not merely to indulge in sightseeing or personal amusement.

Princess Han accompanied him on these vital inspection journeys, diligently observing and learning about the unique local customs and rich cultural tapestries of each region within Lingnan.

Over the past year or two, Princess Han herself has undergone a notable metamorphosis. She has evolved into a more self-assured, dignified, and composed individual. She was instrumental in establishing a formal educational institution exclusively for girls, an academy open to any young lady exceeding the age of five. This school not only imparted literacy skills but also cultivated various essential life skills and practical techniques. Naturally, beyond academic pursuits, assessments formed a crucial part of the curriculum. Much like the rigorous evaluations in the boys' schools, monthly, seasonal, and final examinations were conducted, with substantial prizes awarded to the top three high achievers.

Upon the successful completion of their studies, the school facilitated the arrangement of various tasks for the young women, allowing them the agency to select assignments that aligned with their preferences. Although, for the present time, official government positions remain inaccessible to women, abundant opportunities and fulfilling tasks await them in numerous other sectors.

Speaking of future plans, following the successful completion of the comprehensive inspections throughout Lingnan, Zhao Yao now harbors aspirations to venture abroad for extensive travels. His primary target is the land of Mysir, a realm distinguished by its vast territories and expansive oceans. Crucially, Mysir is renowned for its abundant natural resources, particularly its plentiful reserves of oil.

Having concluded the thorough inspections of the various locales within Lingnan, Zhao Yao and his entourage made their return to the now-familiar Swamp Prefecture. He is currently initiating plans for his people to commence the meticulous preparations for the forthcoming expedition to Mysir.

Undertaking a voyage to Mysir necessitates preparations that must commence years in advance, given that once the journey begins, several years will invariably pass before any possibility of return arises. Zhao Yao has tentatively outlined a travel duration spanning three years, extending to a maximum of five years.

He has intentionally withheld any revelation of his ambitious plan to travel to Mysir from everyone thus far. He is acutely aware that should He Lianfang become privy to his intention to sail towards Mysir, resolute opposition and significant obstacles are virtually guaranteed to arise.

Employing the pretense of meticulously preparing a fleet for the sole purpose of engaging in trade with Mysir, Zhao Yao stealthily commenced his intricate planning. He Lianfang and his associates remained entirely unaware of his true intentions.

The preparations for the grand expedition to Mysir were proceeding with remarkable smoothness. Unfortunately, however, circumstances took an unexpected turn, rendering Zhao Yao himself unable to embark on the journey.

One particular day, immediately following the conclusion of the morning court session, Hidden Guard A conveyed crucial intelligence: an envoy from the capital had arrived, and their affiliation was confirmed to be with Prince Chu.

Upon hearing that the arriving visitors hailed from Prince Chu's contingent, Zhao Yao's heart experienced a sudden clench, swiftly followed by a chilling premonition of impending misfortune that began to creep into his mind. Hurrying back to the Prince Mansion of Han with utmost haste, he proceeded to meet with the representatives from Prince Chu. Among them was a man who, at first glance, appeared entirely unremarkable.