The gloom that had hung over the entire Sheng family for the past few days was finally dispelled by the arrival of the Yangzhou Prefect. The Prefect not only brought joyous news—Sheng Hong was about to be promoted and take up his post in Tokyo—but also brought the Jin family's entourage and generous gifts. This news filled the Sheng household with a festive atmosphere, and smiles graced everyone's faces.

Inside Shou'an Hall, the matriarch of the Sheng family sat on a couch, conversing with a maid from the Jin household. She was astonished to learn that General Jin had arrived in Tokyo only a few days prior and had been awarded the title of Viscount of Wisdom and Courage for his innovative treatment of chickenpox. The maid explained that the lord was currently extremely busy, working with the Emperor on the construction of the commercial street and collaborating with Empress Cao to open shops; he was too preoccupied to come in person. Therefore, the lord had sent these people to deliver the women's clothing he had invented to Hua Lan, and also to inquire whether the Sheng family would be willing to participate in the Empress's franchise stores and the commercial street business. The specific details would be discussed between the lord's entourage and Lord Sheng.

Madam Wang Ruofu was overjoyed and eager to learn more about General Jin. She grabbed the maid's hand and asked urgently, "Tell me quickly, what kind of person is that Xi-ge'er, and how did he get involved with the Emperor and the Sage? Is there anything special about him?" The maid smiled and replied, "Madam, the Duke instructed that some things must be kept secret and cannot be revealed casually. After all, it involves some royal secrets, and if too much is known, it might implicate the Sheng family." Although Madam Wang Ruofu was curious, she understood the implications and could only nod in understanding.

Meanwhile, in the main hall of the Sheng family mansion, the Prefect of Yangzhou was enjoying tea with Sheng Hong in a harmonious atmosphere. After dismissing the servants, Sheng Hong couldn't help but ask the Prefect, "Prefect, this promotion came so unexpectedly; it's truly baffling. Is it a blessing or a curse?" The Prefect of Yangzhou replied with a smile, "Haha, Prefect Sheng, you probably don't know, but Young Master Jin has been granted the title of Viscount of Wisdom and Courage! I suspect it's the result of Lord Jin's efforts on your behalf in court." Upon hearing this, Sheng Hong's face showed surprise, and he murmured to himself, "Ah, he really has been granted a title..."

"Yes, Lord Sheng. The young lord specially sent me a letter with two matters in it. First, he instructs me to notify the wealthy merchants of Yangzhou to attend the auction in Tokyo; second, the Emperor will soon issue an edict to establish workshops throughout the country to provide for the families of soldiers. He wants us to prepare in advance, such as choosing suitable locations to build the workshops and collecting information on the families of soldiers, so that we can seize the opportunity and gain more benefits. The lord has indeed not forgotten to give me a reward. Haha, Lord Sheng, I won't keep you any longer. The lord's men have something to discuss with you." After saying this, the prefect of Yangzhou got up to take his leave.

After the Yangzhou prefect left, Jin's attendants conveyed Jin Shuai's message to Sheng Hong and arranged a time to return to Tokyo together. They then took their leave and returned to the inn. Sheng Hong went to Shou'an Hall and met with Old Madam Sheng, saying, "Mother, Jin's attendants mentioned business matters."

As she sipped her tea, Old Madam Sheng said slowly, "The maid just told us that it's a good thing that Young Master Jin is thinking of the Sheng family when there are benefits to be had. You don't understand business matters, so you should send someone to Youyang tomorrow to inform the eldest son's family. Even if you don't say anything, the various prefectures will inform them. If you don't say anything, it's inevitable that the two brothers will develop a rift."

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