Misty Rain of the Old Times

Zheng Wanxi's Si Luoyang Villa, located in the southern suburbs of Yinlong County, is more accurately described as an estate. It is estimated to cover forty to fifty acres, with white walls and green tiles. The inner courtyard is deep and the trees are lush. Even in this early summer season, the flowers are still in full bloom, which must have cost a lot of money.

There are two or three hundred guards, both overt and covert, not counting maids and servants. Among them, besides Zhang Yu, there are two innate masters. Money makes the world go round, and martial artists also need to eat. I don't know where they were hired from.

It seems that Zheng Wanqian has learned her lesson from the crisis at Niushou Mountain. Safety is paramount when traveling. No amount of money can compare to one's own life. She can always earn more.

The setting sun was just right. Walking on the bluestone road with its water-patterned surface, about a hundred paces from the manor, Chen Xuan looked ahead and said in a daze, "The Zheng family's wealth is immeasurable, yet they've built such a manor in a small place like Yinlong County. They really have too much money to spend, and they don't even live there often."

Upon hearing this, the little princess beside him smiled and said, "Husband, you know that too?"

Thinking that he didn't live in his house in the capital very often, Chen Xuan was speechless for a moment. Moreover, after the two got married, the princess's mansion in the capital, as well as the fiefdom and the larger manor on the fiefdom, were all joint property of the two of them. Apart from someone taking care of them, they hadn't managed them much.

Then the little princess continued, "Husband, have you forgotten the three major tribute specialties of Yinlong County? I guess the Zheng family is managing them. It's quite an important industry. In that case, we can't lose face here, otherwise we wouldn't be worthy of handling such a business."

Chen Xuan thought about it and realized it made sense. Just like some of the bosses he remembered from his previous life, no matter what, they had to drive nice cars when they went out. It was a matter of face, otherwise how would anyone know if you were reliable?

It is said that no matter what era, as long as there is profit to be made, there will be financial giants who will rush in like they smell blood to monopolize the market. The three special products of Yinlong County are completely within the reach of the Zheng family, who have built up an enormous network of relationships in the process.

Nodding, Chen Xuan asked curiously, "Wife, you said the Zheng family is so rich that they're described as being richer than a country. It would be a lie to say they don't have a powerful backer, otherwise they would have been devoured without a trace. So who do you think the Zheng family is backing?"

"How would I know? I didn't know before, and it's hard to say what will happen in the future," the little princess shook her head. She didn't have time to find out these things. Anyway, it wasn't her. As she spoke, she gave Chen Xuan a half-smile.

The little princess kept trying to bring Zheng Wanxi, this rich woman, into Chen Xuan's family. If it succeeded, who would dare to touch the Zheng family's fat meat so easily in the future?
Chen Xuan was at his wits' end, his every other sentence revolving around finding himself a concubine, so he simply stopped responding.

Xia Mei pondered for a moment and said, "Master, I haven't paid much attention to the Zheng family's backers before, but I've occasionally heard of them. I've heard that they started out with the backing of the Wang family nearly two hundred years ago, and remained relatively low-key until the few decades after the Emperor Emeritus ascended the throne, when they rose to power with unstoppable momentum and became the wealthiest family in our Jing Kingdom. A few years ago, they also seemed to have some connection with the Xiao family. By the way, Zheng Wanqian's cousin on her maternal uncle's side is none other than the current Empress. It's highly likely that His Majesty has been secretly supporting the Zheng family in the past."

Hearing her say that, Chen Xuan was speechless and said, "I see, then it's not surprising."

The Zheng family has connections with two major families in Jing State, and Zhou Chen is also behind them. With such a background, it would be difficult for them not to prosper. It's possible that Zhou Chen's ability to hold the position of Crown Prince for so many years and his smooth succession to the throne is also inseparable from the financial support of the Zheng family.

Of course, the Zheng family's own business acumen is key; otherwise, even the best relationships won't be of much use.

Suddenly remembering something, Chen Xuan leaned over and tapped the little princess on the shoulder, laughing, "So, it turns out we're related to Miss Zheng after all this time?"

"Oh right, I wouldn't have realized it if my husband hadn't reminded me," the little princess said, somewhat surprised.

That's right. The current emperor, Zhou Chen, is Chen Xuan's brother-in-law and Zheng Wanqian's cousin-in-law. What else could they be but relatives? If you really think about it, they are cousins, just in a roundabout way.

Tsk, life is a complex web of relationships.

While Chen Xuan was pondering these things, the little princess, who had just realized what was happening, urged him, "Husband, as the saying goes, cousins ​​are a match made in heaven. Why don't you take Miss Zheng into your family? It would be a wonderful thing to strengthen family ties."

Here we go again? Chen Xuan was speechless. Could it be that his wife's dragon-like nature had awakened after marriage, and she wanted to use this method to amass the Zheng family's wealth? She really is a virtuous wife; she's impeccable when it comes to managing the household.

You can't discuss these things with your wife, or she'll never stop. Chen Xuan was already familiar with her ways, so he decisively changed the subject, saying, "This manor is surrounded by water on three sides and backed by hills, resembling a reclining dragon. With a master's guidance, it's hard not to get rich with such a feng shui layout."

"My husband knows about feng shui? Is that what the teachers at the academy teach?" the little princess asked curiously, her attention diverted by Chen Xuan and she forgot about the previous topic.

Shaking his head, Chen Xuan said, "I don't know anything about feng shui. I was just saying. The layout of the manor is there; anyone who sees it would say the same thing."

He genuinely didn't understand. Although formations and feng shui were somewhat related, he only had a superficial understanding of formations. How could he presumptuously claim to understand feng shui? He should ask the professionals at the Imperial Observatory.

As they spoke, they arrived outside the manor; the manor gate was just across the small bridge.

When they arrived, the main gate was already wide open, and a large group of guards, maids, and servants were waiting for them.

Zheng Wanqian and Zhang Yu appeared at the gate, surrounded by maids. They must have run there. Their cheeks were slightly flushed, which added to their already stunning beauty.

She spotted Chen Xuan at first glance, her joy overflowing. Suppressing her urge to rush up and embrace him, she gracefully and dignifiedly bowed and said, "This humble woman, Zheng Wanqian, greets Young Master Chen and Your Highness the Princess. I apologize for any lack of hospitality."

She decisively listened to Zhang Yu's advice, wearing a sky-blue fitted long dress. Her breasts were perky and her waist was slender and delicate. The rounded peach shape of her breasts outlined the tight skirt in a breathtaking arc, revealing her graceful figure. She did not wear many gorgeous ornaments on her head, with a jade hairpin holding her hair in place. Her face was bare, like a lotus emerging from clear water.

Normally, she wouldn't wear such a dress that shows off a girl's figure outside her room, but since it was for seeing the man she longed for day and night, it carried a hint of temptation. She was shy, but she wanted her man's gaze to linger on her for a little longer.

For a young lady from a respectable family, such an action was extremely bold and could even be described as disregarding worldly opinions.

But being a lady of high birth, her form-fitting clothes, while fully showcasing her graceful figure, still covered her up completely, revealing no skin above her neck and above her hands. This allowed her to display her charm without appearing slutty.

She's not a prostitute. What respectable girl would easily expose half of her chest? Even girls who roam the martial arts world wouldn't expose their chest or waist. It's already extremely rare for that ethereal fairy who had a mishap during her training to be barefoot, yet she always covered herself with a halo wherever she went.

After Zheng Wanxi finished speaking, everyone around her greeted her in unison.

Logically, one should kneel and bow before an incense table to welcome a princess, but Chen Xuan presented his visiting card in his own name, so such a ceremony was omitted.

Chen Xuan returned the greeting with a cupped hand and said, "Miss Zheng, you are too kind. My husband and I have come here without permission. We hope you will forgive us if we have caused any disturbance." To be honest, as a normal man, Chen Xuan couldn't help but take a few more glances at Zheng Wanqian. Her graceful figure was truly pleasing to the eye. Even though she was covered up tightly, he still wanted to see more. It was a common problem for lustful people.

As the saying goes, one should not look at what is improper. Chen Xuan glanced at her briefly and then looked away. It wasn't that he was being hypocritical, but staring at a girl like that was really inappropriate.

He never expected that the other person would be dressed so boldly when they met again. In the past, when they met, the loose clothes made it impossible to see the outline of her body, and her small hands were even hidden in the sleeves.

Chen Xuan wasn't stupid; how could he not understand why she appeared before him in this manner? A woman dresses up for the one she loves, and for a girl to go to such lengths, her intentions were obvious.

"Miss Zheng, there's no need for such formalities," the little princess returned the greeting, without putting on airs.

As she greeted him, she smiled slightly to herself, keeping a close eye on her husband. How could she not notice the way Chen Xuan looked at Zheng Wanqian? Although he didn't show any ugliness, she didn't know how many times he looked her up and down in that moment.

At this moment, Zheng Wanxi's heart was pounding like a little rabbit about to jump out. Although Chen Xuan's gaze was fleeting, it made her feel weak all over, as if she had been stripped naked.

Although she was incredibly shy, this was exactly what she wanted. This outfit was meant to attract his attention. She thought to herself that listening to Sister Zhang Yu was definitely the right thing to do. Young Master Chen really did like it. Being able to get his burning gaze to linger made her daring actions worthwhile.

Suppressing her turbulent emotions, she stepped aside to greet them, saying, "Young Master Chen, Your Highness, please come inside and take a seat. We have prepared a simple feast; I hope you will not find it offensive."

As she turned to the side, her eyes met Zhang Yu's. Zhang Yu's teasing gaze made her cheeks flush slightly, and she dared not look him in the eye, as if to say, "Listen to me, I'm right. Young Master Chen's eyes are practically glued to you."

It's a good thing Chen Xuan didn't know what Zhang Yu was thinking, otherwise he would have been itching to spank her again. Heaven help you, how could you have known that your eyes were practically glued to Zheng Wanqian when you saw me? I only glanced at her a few times out of politeness, okay?

"Please," Chen Xuan nodded and said. Since they were guests, they entered the manor under the guidance of Zheng Wanxi and the others.

Chen Xuan and the others were behind them. The little princess nudged Chen Xuan with her elbow and subtly gestured forward with her lips, clearly implying that her husband was handsome.

Walking in front, Zheng Wanqian and her companions swayed like willows in the wind, their hips gently undulating with each step, making hearts race. From behind, their graceful figures resembled a gourd.

Chen Xuan nodded subconsciously, then gave a speechless emoji, knowing full well that his wife was teasing him.

The wife encouraged her husband to look at other beautiful women, and even watched them together. What kind of behavior is that?

The little princess blinked and smiled, looking encouraging. She was clearly saying something like, "Then husband, you should take the initiative, win her over, bring her home, and look at her every day, however you want."

Chen Xuan simply shifted his gaze to the scenery along the way, truly at a loss for what to do with his wife.

Little did she know that Zheng Wanqian, who was walking in front, was also feeling uneasy. She felt a pair of burning eyes behind her that made her heart race and made her feel numb all over. In particular, Zhang Yu next to her would occasionally give her a seductive look and encourage her to make bigger movements so that she could bewitch that big pig trotter.

However, wearing such intimate clothing was already a bold move by Zheng Wanqian. How could she dare to go any further? Wouldn't that be considered direct seduction, especially in front of the princess? If she displeased the princess, forget about getting what she wanted; disaster would be inevitable sooner or later.

With their own thoughts, the group of people made their way to the living room. After taking their seats, Zheng Wanqian calmed down and became more natural. After all, with the table as a screen, she could no longer display her graceful figure to Chen Xuan as she had before.

In such an occasion, Du Juan and the others naturally did not sit down together. At home, they could do whatever they wanted, but in front of outsiders, they still had to be mindful of their manners.

"Young Master Chen, Your Highness, we arranged a banquet as soon as we received your invitations, but it was all done in a rush. Please forgive us if our hospitality is lacking. Please, I wonder if it suits your tastes?" Zheng Wanqian greeted them with apparent composure, but in reality, she was uneasy. After all, this was the first time she had been so close to the person she had been longing for, and it concerned whether she could have a romantic reunion with him in the future. She was worried about leaving a bad impression.

Because his wife kept urging him to bring this girl or that girl home, Chen Xuan suddenly felt a little uneasy, as if he had done something wrong.

Why would I feel guilty? It's my wife who's been actively pushing things along, she's practically going to great lengths for me. Even if I brought a bunch of girls home, she'd be overjoyed. It's not like I can't afford to support or protect them. Oh well, whatever, let nature take its course.

These thoughts flashed through his mind, but Chen Xuan decided not to care anymore. As usual, he was casual and easygoing, looking at the table full of food and wine, and said with a smile, "Miss Zheng, you're too kind. We'll accept your hospitality. Hmm, it smells so good, a familiar aroma."

Seeing this, Zheng Wanqian and the others breathed a sigh of relief; this was the Chen Xuan they knew.

Following his gaze, Zheng Wanxi said, "Young Master Chen mentioned Dragon Crystal Rice. It does smell quite fragrant. It's a common dish; I wonder if you can get used to it?"

As she spoke, she got up and personally served rice to Chen Xuan and the others. It was a rare opportunity, as the maids beside her had no chance to do it for them.

Upon hearing this, Chen Xuan joked, "Miss Zheng truly lives up to her reputation as the daughter of one of the wealthiest men in our Jing Kingdom. Dragon Crystal Rice is something she can eat whenever she wants. I've even had a couple of meals at my father-in-law's place. Looks like you're in for a treat today. I'll definitely show off by eating several big bowls until my belly is round and full."

This shows that the three specialties of Yinlong County were definitely handled by the Zheng family; otherwise, how could they be so casually offered to guests?

The story goes that Old Deng almost got into a fight with the store after eating counterfeit goods.

The more casual the interaction, the more harmonious it felt. Knowing his personality, Zheng Wanqian handed him a bowl of rice and said with a smile, "Young Master Chen, you flatter me. Please enjoy your meal."

The little princess rolled her eyes at Chen Xuan and said irritably, "Husband, can't you pay attention to your image? Do you really think you're a pig?" Then she looked at Zheng Wanqian and the others apologetically and said, "That's just how my husband is, please don't laugh at me."

"Your Highness is too kind. Young Master Chen is a very kind person, we're more than happy to accept such hospitality, right, Wanqian?" Zhang Yu chimed in from the side, secretly giving Zheng Wanqian a look, somewhat exasperated, meaning, "You better stand up for yourself, don't put yourself in such a humble position in front of them. You're not bad yourself, otherwise you'll just be a doormat if you marry into their family..." (End of Chapter)