The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

The group strolled together through the courtyard, leisurely admiring the breathtaking scenery around them. Sunlight filtered through the lush foliage, casting dappled shadows, and a gentle breeze carried the sweet fragrance of flowers and grass. This picturesque landscape was truly delightful, as if they had stepped into a paradise on earth.

Such a pleasant occasion is truly precious. We are all busy with our own lives and rarely have such leisure time to get together. I sincerely thank my younger brother and sister-in-law (or my third sister-in-law) for providing such a wonderful opportunity for a gathering and outing so that we can all come together and fully enjoy this peaceful and beautiful moment.

Before they knew it, everyone was feeling a little tired. So, they found a charming pavilion and went inside to rest. Everyone took out various pastries, snacks, and fruits that Chen Mengyao had carefully prepared for them from their backpacks, placing them on the stone table. They sat around it, enjoying the delicious food and chatting happily, their laughter filling the air, creating a wonderfully harmonious atmosphere. At that moment, everyone's face was filled with a happy and contented smile, their hearts overflowing with warmth and joy.

Before they knew it, it was noon. Ouyang Han led everyone to the dining room. He had specially arranged for the kitchen to prepare a table full of delicious dishes using the ingredients and seasonings prepared by Chen Mengyao. He also used several high-yield grain varieties that were currently being grown, following the methods provided by Chen Mengyao, to cook many dishes, wanting his fifth brother and second sister to taste the flavors of dishes made with the new grain varieties. Some of the other people had eaten some of the dishes before, while others hadn't, but everyone said they were delicious, especially the two couples who had just returned, as it was their first time tasting dishes made with the new seasonings and those high-yield grain varieties.

Ouyang Yan picked up a piece of pastry made from the new grain and put it in his mouth. After chewing it carefully, his eyes lit up and he praised, "This pastry is soft, sweet and fragrant, yet chewy. Food made from the new grain has a unique flavor." His wife nodded in agreement, "Indeed, and the seasoning is even more unique. I have never tasted such freshness and aroma in any other dish."

Ouyang Shuang praised a stew made with new grains and special seasonings, saying, "This dish is very fragrant, and the fat in the meat blends perfectly with the grains. Every bite is unforgettable." His wife, who was standing next to him, also smiled and said, "I feel like my taste buds are dancing. This novel flavor is really irresistible."

As everyone savored the food, they enthusiastically discussed the unique features of each dish. Seeing everyone's satisfaction, Ouyang Han felt a great sense of accomplishment and looked at Chen Mengyao beside him, saying, "The things Yaoyao brought have truly added endless surprises to our dining table." Chen Mengyao responded modestly, and the dining room was filled with the aroma of delicious food and a cheerful atmosphere, with everyone immersed in this wonderful dining experience.

After dinner, everyone sat in the hall drinking tea and chatting. Ouyang Han said, "Second sister, fifth brother, don't leave again this time. Haven't you had enough fun after all these years away? Coming back to the capital will allow us to get together more often. My siblings and I are currently preparing to open many restaurants, so you can have whatever you want to eat."

Chen Mengyao also said, "Yes, Second Sister, Fifth Brother, you shouldn't leave again. If you really want to find something to do, I have a suggestion for you: establish your own martial arts sect, recruit righteous people to join, and be responsible for punishing those scoundrels in the martial arts world. There will be people responsible for collecting information, and people responsible for upholding justice. You can be the sect leaders and command them. Why do you have to do it yourself? Besides, aren't you tired of fighting all day? We'll also worry about you getting hurt. I can provide them with weapons from my space."

Everyone thought it was a good idea, especially Ouyang Han, who stood up excitedly and continued, "Yes, Yao Yao's idea is great. I have some people who specialize in collecting intelligence, and I can share some with you later." Upon hearing this, Ouyang Yan and his wife, as well as Ouyang Shuang and his wife, all showed complicated expressions.

The Ouyang couple were taken aback at first, then a glint of excitement flashed in their eyes. Ouyang Yan's wife couldn't help but clapp her hands and laughed, "This is quite a novel thing. I've only ever known how to fight alone before, I've never thought of making such a big fuss." Ouyang Yan also nodded slightly, a faint smile playing on his lips, his eyes revealing eagerness: "It does sound very interesting, and if managed properly, it will definitely make us famous in the martial arts world."

Ouyang Shuang and her husband exchanged a glance. Ouyang Shuang frowned, seemingly weighing the pros and cons, her face showing some doubt: "But setting up a sect is no easy task; funding, venue, and personnel selection are all problems." Her husband's eyes lit up, and he nudged her with his elbow: "Oh, why do you always think of the difficulties first? What's so difficult about it? The other brothers and Yao'er will definitely help. Besides, it's so prestigious." Hearing this, Ouyang Shuang's tense face gradually relaxed, and she smiled softly. At this moment, the hall was filled with anticipation and longing for the future.

After finalizing the details, they discussed other aspects together. The Crown Prince said he would help find a suitable location, preferably one that was large enough and far away from crowds. Ouyang Han said he would send his subordinates, who were skilled in stealth and agility, to be in charge of security, since a sect would inevitably need to guard against external invasions.

Then everyone began discussing the name of the sect, and opinions were divided. Ouyang Yan suggested "Lingyue Sect," implying a majestic presence that soars above mountains; Ouyang Shuang thought "Xingyin Sect" was better, suggesting a low-key yet extraordinary strength hidden from the world, like a star. At this moment, Mengyao, who had been silent until now, spoke up: "How about 'Yuqiong Pavilion'? 'Yutian Cangqiong' (御天苍穹) sounds grand and conveys a sense of dominance over everything." Everyone nodded in agreement.

Regarding the site selection, the Crown Prince indicated that he already had several suitable locations in mind, and he would send someone to survey the terrain the next day. Ouyang Han added that the site should also include dedicated training grounds, a scripture repository, and residences for the disciples, with each area logically arranged to facilitate communication while ensuring the independence of its functions. Everyone contributed their ideas, and a blueprint for the sect's rise was gradually taking shape. After the discussion, they waited to return tomorrow to implement it.

Chen Mengyao cleared her throat and said, "Actually, besides the sect matter, I have another idea. I want to open a specialty jewelry store."

The crown prince raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in his eyes: "Oh? That's interesting. I think that if managed properly, it will definitely become a magnificent sight in the city."

King Wen's eyes lit up: "Yao'er has always been clever and ingenious. This jewelry store must be extraordinary. I will definitely give it my full support."

Prince Duan nodded slightly: "It sounds very novel, but opening a shop is a complicated matter. If you need manpower or money, just let me know."

The eldest princess covered her mouth and chuckled: "Yao'er is always so creative. This jewelry store will surely attract many noble ladies."

The prince consort chimed in, "Indeed, if it really opens, it will be packed with guests every day. You'll have to reserve some special designs for us then."

Prince An clapped his hands and laughed, "Great idea! I'm sure all the jewelry in the shop is unique. I can't wait to see the finished products. I also have another idea: we can add some hidden weapons to some of the jewelry so that women can use them for self-defense."

Seeing everyone's positive attitude, Chen Mengyao felt warm inside and said with a smile, "Fifth Brother's idea is good. We will need to find some skilled craftsmen to make the jewelry. Thank you all in advance. With your support, the jewelry store will definitely open smoothly."

Next, they will discuss the specific details.

The Crown Prince spoke first: "The location of this shop is extremely important. It must be in a bustling area with high foot traffic. I have several vacant shops in my residence located in the most lively streets of the city, which are available for use."

King Wen then said, “As for personnel, I have several people in my household who are skilled in appraising jewelry and jade. They have a keen eye and can be responsible for selecting raw materials for jewelry to ensure that the quality is excellent.”

After a moment's thought, Prince Duan said, "I know several skilled craftsmen who, though not specialists in jewelry making, can certainly create exquisite pieces with a little guidance. Moreover, I can also assign some servants to help manage the shop's affairs."

Prince Jing, Ouyang Han, not to be outdone, said, "Among the people I gave you last time, there is one named Zheng Ze. He is skilled at authenticating jewelry and calligraphy. We will have him come over to manage the shop."

The prince consort smiled and said, "There's no need to worry about funding. My family has businesses all over the country, so this amount of money is nothing to us. We will definitely provide the full support."

The eldest princess said gently, "I have many unique gemstones in my collection, which are perfect for making the store's prized possessions or as raw materials for special designs."

Prince An clapped his hands excitedly: "That's great! We still need to discuss the style of the shop. Should it be classical and elegant or glamorous and flamboyant? This will also affect the target customer group in the future." The group then discussed the style of the jewelry store's decoration.

The Crown Prince spoke first: "In my opinion, classical elegance is better. Nowadays, there are many people who like the ancient style, and this style shows more depth." King Wen shook his head: "No, it is more flamboyant and ostentatious to attract more attention. After all, most people still like things that are eye-catching."

Prince Duan stroked his chin and pondered for a moment before saying, "Could we combine the two? The exterior could be lavish and flamboyant to attract passersby, while the interior could be decorated in a classic and elegant style for distinguished guests who are truly interested in purchasing fine jewelry to leisurely appreciate."

Everyone's eyes lit up upon hearing this, and the prince consort praised it repeatedly: "This plan is brilliant. In this way, we can win over the hearts of ordinary people without losing high-end customers."

The eldest princess clapped her hands lightly: "Let's do it this way. This unique style will definitely become the talk of the town, giving our jewelry store free advertising."

Chen Mengyao smiled and said, "My brothers, sisters, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law are all incredibly clever. They were able to come up with such a perfect plan. It seems that the jewelry store is not far from a successful opening." Everyone smiled at each other, as if they could already see the jewelry store bustling with customers.

Then the group started discussing the name of the shop.

The eldest princess parted her lips slightly and said, "How about calling it 'Ya Hua Ge'? It contains both elegance and luxury, which perfectly matches the style of our shop."

Prince An waved his hand, saying, "No, no, that's too ordinary. I think 'Starry Treasure Shop' is better, as it implies that the jewelry in the shop is as dazzling as the stars."

After a moment of contemplation, the Crown Prince said, "How about 'Imperial Brocade Pearl Workshop'? It has a sense of royal nobility and also reflects the exquisite beauty of jewelry, which is as beautiful as brocade."

At this point, King Wen spoke up: "I think the name 'Qimeng Zhenshi Ju' (绮梦珍饰居) evokes images of beautiful dreams and precious ornaments."

Everyone nodded in agreement, finding the name quite charming. The prince consort smiled and said, "This name is excellent; it's both poetic and highlights the unique characteristics of our shop."

Chen Mengyao said happily, "Then our store name is decided to be 'Qimeng Zhenshiju'! Next, let's discuss the opening promotions." So, everyone enthusiastically threw themselves into the new discussion.

The Crown Prince proposed first, "On opening day, the first fifty customers can enjoy a 20% discount." The eldest princess shook her head in opposition, "That discount isn't attractive enough. In my opinion, the first twenty should get half price." Prince An stroked his chin thoughtfully and said, "Half price is good, but only for the first ten. We can also set up a lucky draw; the winner can receive a set of exquisite jewelry specially made by the store." Everyone found this very interesting. Prince Wen added, "We can also give away some small ornaments, as long as a certain amount is spent." The prince consort immediately said, "Yes, engraving our store's name on the ornaments is also a form of advertising."

Chen Mengyao's eyes lit up: "We'll give the three customers with the highest spending a lifetime 30% discount card. This will definitely stimulate a lot of competition among wealthy young men. Our shop will also launch a membership card system, divided into gold, silver, and regular membership cards. Regular members will get a 10% discount on jewelry, silver members will get a 20% discount, and gold members will get a 30% discount. You can get a regular membership card by recharging 100 taels, a silver card by recharging 1,000 taels, and a gold card by recharging 5,000 taels. What do you think?" Everyone agreed with the idea. This membership card system was unique in the entire Dongling Kingdom, and it would definitely attract a lot of people.

They then discussed which high-ranking officials and dignitaries to invite to the opening ceremony. The eldest princess listed a long list, consisting of important court officials and their families. The crown prince suggested inviting envoys from neighboring countries, saying, "This will not only showcase our country's prosperity but also attract more visitors from other regions." The more they discussed, the more excited they became, as if the grand opening scene was already before their eyes.