Chapter 421: Wasteland Reclamation Grant (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Prince Anyang was stunned.
He was actually not angry.
"Although Anyang County is my land, the local expenses and the annual tribute to the imperial court had to be paid."
"If we rashly reduce taxes, I'm afraid the imperial court won't allow it."
"In addition, the tax policy is issued by the imperial court."
Lin Xiaoyue smiled. "If it can't be changed, then don't change it. What if we implement a subsidy policy?"
Previously, she was worried that Prince Anyang was not willing to reduce the grain tax for his own benefit.
However, hearing his words, she knew that he was really considering it.
"A subsidy policy?" Prince Anyang was interested.
"Yes." Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"Issue a notice to encourage the people to reclaim wasteland. The reward for clearing the land is money."
Prince Anyang frowned.
"This..." He looked hesitant, but he was already thinking about it.
A monetary reward was indeed a good idea.
However, if the reward was too little, it would probably not be attractive. If the rewards were too much, they could not afford it.
"You don't have to give the reward money. When it's time to pay the grain tax, you can just deduct it." Lin Xiaoyue said.
In fact, it was the same as a reduction in grain taxes. It was just a change of phrase.
Seeing that Prince Anyang did not speak, Lin Xiaoyue continued, "of course, there is a limit to the amount of subsidy each household can receive. Any wasteland that exceeded the quota would be considered as voluntary wasteland reclamation and would not be rewarded."
"In this way, Your Highness can control the annual increase in the area of cultivated land in Anyang County."
As Lin Xiaoyue spoke, she stole another glance at Prince Anyang.
"In addition, we can set a higher quota for land reclamation subsidies for the big landowners to encourage them to reclaim land."
Prince Anyang glanced at Lin Xiaoyue and smiled lightly.
Was she thinking for herself?
Lin Xiaoyue didn't feel embarrassed and continued, "after all, the land needs to be worked on. And when the villagers have their own land, there will be fewer people willing to rent."
"In that case, the landowners have to think of a way to keep their land occupied." Lin Xiaoyue smiled and looked at Prince Anyang.
Prince Anyang was surprised, and his eyes lit up.
"Are you saying that Anyang County can attract more people?"
They needed people to generate more money and be trained as soldiers.
Even if they were slaves, the government would collect taxes. These were all income.
In addition, the landowners had a lot of land, so it was not practical to use only slaves.
At that time, the landowners would need to think of a way to encourage people to move to Anyang County.
Hearing this, the others, especially Liang Yu, were also surprised.
Liang Yu seemed to see Lin Xiaoyue's body glowing.
"Your Highness is wise." Lin Xiaoyue smiled and cupped her hands at Prince Anyang.
"Haha! Ms. Lin is indeed smart!" Prince Anyang said excitedly.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled.
She thought to herself, "hehe, that's nothing."
If it wasn't for the fact that the Nangong Army was coming back and that she would have close to 6,000 more men on hand, she wouldn't have bothered saying so much.
Then, the manor no longer needed the tenant farmers to help with the farming, so they had to think of ways to help those people.
"Your Highness is too kind. In addition, I hope Your Highness can arrange for the tenants and villagers near the twelve manors to move away. In this way, there will be better privacy."
"Yes. This has to be arranged." Prince Anyang nodded.
Then, he looked at Liang Yu.
"Yes." Liang Yu hurriedly cupped his hands at Prince Anyang.
Although his heart ached, he did not say anything. After all, he really couldn't save the money.
Prince Anyang then asked Lin Xiaoyue about some suggestions on land reclamation subsidies, but he didn't get any valuable input. Only then did he turn the topic to Lin Xiaoyue's chain stores.
"I heard from Manager Liang that you are looking for partners?"
Lin Xiaoyue's heart skipped a beat. She thought, "you finally asked."
"Yes."
"I want to quickly spread our brand name, but 1 don't have enough money. That is why 1 came up with such a method. 1 hope that through this win-win cooperation, I could recruit some partners," Lin Xiaoyue said helplessly.
"After all, we have to feed 6,000 people."
Prince Anyang and Liang Yu wanted to roll their eyes.
"Hehe, in that case, I will join.io,ooo taels for 50 stores."
Liang Yu's expression changed.
So quickly?
Wasn't His Highness poor, which was why he kept asking the Liang Corporation to pay?
Chapter 422: Xiao Yang (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Prince Anyang looked at Lin Xiaoyue with a smile, thinking that she would surely agree. However, he saw her expression changed.
"We have only planned for the chain stores in Nan'an County, there are currently only twenty-eight franchise opportunities available," Lin Xiaoyue explained.
He gave 10,000 taels of silver so easily. The prince truly lived up to his title.
Both Prince Anyang and Liang Yu's expressions changed simultaneously.
On the way here, Manager Liang had already informed them of the situation.
But they thought that there were 10 counties in Nan'an, and each county could have quite a few chain stores. They came to give money, and there was no reason for Lin Xiaoyue to refuse.
However, they didn't expect her to reject the offer.
"Nan'an is a large place, and besides Nan'an County, other counties are also prosperous. The remaining twenty-two stores, I am willing to open them in other counties," Prince Anyang said.
Liang Yu also nervously looked at Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue seemed troubled.
"This..." she hesitated.
"Why? You are not planning to open chain stores in other counties?" Prince Anyang's eyebrows furrowed, and his tone grew more serious.
"Of course I am," Lin Xiaoyue quickly bowed to Prince Anyang.
"It's just that 1 don't plan to recruit too many franchisees at the moment. I am confident in Liu's Express, but we are limited by the capital in our hands. So, 1 released some to speed up the brand-building process."
"But when the brand effect takes effect, opening more franchise stores..." Lin Xiaoyue glanced carefully at Prince Anyang.
"...at a low price will not be profitable."
"After all, the profits of direct stores are much higher than franchise stores. If I have enough capital, I can slowly expand, and maybe earn even more money." Prince Anyang understood and his face turned serious.
So, she wanted to raise the prices?
"Cough, how do the dozens of franchise stores in Nan'an County sustain the Nangong Army? You should open them at least two more counties!" Prince Anyang said firmly.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Prince Anyang and he continued, "let's do that. I want the remaining stores in Nan'an County and those in the other two counties."
Seeing Lin Xiaoyue about to speak, Prince Anyang continued, 'Til give you 20,000 taels first. The rest will be given once the specific number of franchise stores is confirmed."
Lin Xiaoyue:
She made a distressed expression and then bowed to Prince Anyang.
"Yes," she pretended to accept it hesistantly.
Prince Anyang's mood improved when he saw this.
Liang Yu also felt a bit pleased at the moment.
He didn't really think that Lin Xiaoyue was as distressed as she appeared, but seeing her like this made him feel happy.
Then, Lin Xiaoyue signed contracts with both Prince Anyang and Liang Yu.
After the contracts were signed, things were almost settled.
Liang Yu said that the matter would be handled within three days, and they would deliver the promissory notes and deeds, then left with Manage Liang and Prince Anyang.
When leaving, Prince Anyang even had two guards follow Lin Xiaoyue to the kitchen, where they took a lot of braised meat and sausages.
The couple stood on the side of the road and sent off the carriage. Then, they exchanged a smile.
"We had our eyes opened today. My wife's eloquence is admirable!" Li Yuan said, raising his fist and complimenting Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at him and said, "of course!"
After speaking, she turned her head arrogantly and walked towards the gate.
Li Yuan smiled and quickly followed.
Little did they know that at this moment, the smile on Lin Xiaoyue's face had disappeared, and she let out a deep sigh in her heart.
Of course she was eloquent.
She successfully convinced Prince Anyang to agree to provide money to rescue the Nangong Army, provide daily necessities, nine manors, and 20,000 taels of military expenses.
In addition, she obtained an additional 20,000 taels in franchise fees.
All this combined was worth over 200,000 taels of silver, a considerable sum even for the Liang Trading Company.
However, for them, it was only barely enough.
When she complained to Prince Anyang about having to support 6,000 people, it wasn't fake.
After requesting so much from Prince Anyang this time, it would be difficult to ask for more in the future.
From now on, they could only rely on themselves.
Moreover, delaying for another day at the border would add more danger to the Nangong Army.
Once Prince Anyang finalized things, they would have to hurry to the border.
Yes, she would go with Li Xiao.
The next day, early in the morning, Lin Xiaoyue went to Qingshi Town with Li Xiao.
Entering the city from the West City Gate, the carriage passed through two streets before arriving at their destination.
Li Yuan reached out and helped Lin Xiaoyue off the carriage..
Chapter 423: Xiao Yang (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Lin Xiaoyue saw a grand mansion in front of her, with the words "Liu Mansion" written on the plaque.
She recognized the handwriting. It was Li Xiao's.
Just as she was feeling moved, three people came out.
The one in front was a middle-aged man dressed like a housekeeper, and the other two were dressed like servants.
"Greetings, Miss and Master!" The middle-aged man stepped forward and bowed to Lin Xiaoyue and Li Xiao.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Li Xiao.
Seeing him nod, she then looked at the middle-aged man.
"Head Fang, no need to be so polite. Let's go inside and talk," she said.
Indeed, it was Head Fang.
In reality, he was the head of the Nangong Army and had been overseeing the Nangong family's properties.
After making contact with Li Xiao, Head Fang came to Qingshi Town. Since then, he had been staying in this mansion, following Li Xiao's arrangements.
"Thank you, Miss! Miss, Young Master, please!" Head Fang made a gesture of invitation.
The two of them then entered the Liu Mansion.
Upon entering, Head Fang signaled two servants to keep watch at the door and followed Li Xiao and Lin Xiaoyue to the study.
Inside the mansion, Lin Xiaoyue observed her surroundings.
She noticed that the mansion was quite large and filled with many people.
Indeed, there were many people.
And they all looked imposing and formidable.
Head Fang followed behind them and carefully observed Lin Xiaoyue's reaction.
To his surprise, she didn't show any fear. This made him appreciate the mistress even more.
The Great General Wang was dead, and the young master was now their new master.
Now that the young master was married, his wife became their new mistress.
When they arrived at Qingshi Town, upon learning the mistress' identity, he thought that she was not worthy of the young master.
But later, after witnessing what happened to the mistress and knowing her intelligence, he thought that the young master had excellent judgment.
They had longed to meet the mistress, and today they finally had the chance to do so.
Upon arriving at the study, there were guards stationed outside.
One of the handsome men there, upon seeing Li Xiao and Lin Xiaoyue, smiled with delight.
"1 greet the Master and the Mistress!" He and the two people behind him knelt before the couple.
Lin Xiaoyue was startled.
She looked at Li Xiao, who nodded at her.
"Please rise," she said to the man and the others.
"Thank you, Mistress!" The man immediately stood up.
"Mistress, we have been eagerly awaiting your arrival!" The man looked at Lin Xiaoyue with undisguised joy.
Li Xiao frowned.
"Cough!"
He looked at Li Xiao, but he did not look afraid.
"Look at my cousin. He's already scowling at me the moment we meet," he then turned to Lin Xiaoyue and said.
Lin Xiaoyue was surprised.
She looked at Li Xiao.
Cousin?
Li Xiao rolled his eyes at the man and nodded at Lin Xiaoyue.
Then, he walked into the study.
"Come in and talk."
The man smiled and walked to Lin Xiaoyue.
"I am Xiao Yang, Li Xiao's only cousin!"
"Oh, nice to meet you!" Lin Xiaoyue smiled at him.
She didn't know that he had a cousin.
"Hehe, you are really pretty! Why did cousin keep you hidden from me all this time?" Xiao Yang tried to flatter Lin Xiaoyue.
When he mentioned the second half of his sentence, he even glared at Li Xiao.
Before, his aunt and cousin were worried that Li Xiao wouldn't find a wife. Now, he had found such a capable and beautiful wife...
Hey, why did he suddenly feel a bit sour in his heart? What was going on?
"Eh, you flatter me," Lin Xiaoyue replied with some embarrassment.
The more she looked at Xiao Yang, the more she felt that he resembled some kind of animal.
"Not at all! It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that you're one in a million. Do you have any sisters?" Xiao Yang's eyes gleamed with excitement as he looked at Lin Xiaoyue.
He heard that his cousin-in-law was very capable.
Today, upon seeing her, he was genuinely amazed.
If the mistress had any sisters, could he propose marriage?
He was already eighteen, and he had been stationed at the border military camp all this time.
He hadn't seen a woman in a long time.
Now that he had returned, he couldn't miss the opportunity to find a match, right?
Chapter 424: Xiao Yang (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
If his scary cousin could marry a beautiful wife, he could too!
"Shut up." Li Xiao, who was in front, couldn't take it anymore and shouted angrily.
His aura shut Xiao Yang up for a moment.
"Come here." Taking advantage of this moment, Li Xiao waved at Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue heaved a sigh of relief and quickly went to Li Xiao's side.
This cousin of his was too friendly, she couldn't take it.
Xiao Yang came back to his senses and was about to express his dissatisfaction with Li Xiao.
"Close the door," however, he then heard Li Xiao say in a commanding tone.
"Yes." Then, as if it was a reflex, he obeyed.
He frowned, hating himself for forming a habit.
However, he still turned around and closed the door.
When he closed the door and came back, Li Xiao had already brought Lin Xiaoyue to sit down.
At this moment, Li Xiao's aura was fully unleashed, and Xiao Yang didn't dare to smile anymore.
Xiao Yang and Head Fang looked at each other.
Then, the two of them stepped forward and bowed to Li Xiao and Lin Xiaoyue.
"Master, Mistress!"
"No need for formalities." Li Xiao said.
Only then did the two of them stand up.
"I came here this time to discuss with you about bringing back the Nangong Army." Li Xiao said.
Xiao Yang and General Manager Fang were stunned when they heard this.
Xiao Yang was especially surprised.
"Really? Master, have you made up your mind?" He looked at Li Xiao.
Ever since the Nangong family met with trouble, the soldiers had long wanted to leave the border.
However, due to various reasons and the fact that their master had not spoken, they did not dare to act rashly.
He had returned from the border to ask about the situation on behalf of the soldiers.
However, Head Fang had not even seen his master.
Today, they finally came. Otherwise, he would have gone to look for them.
The soldiers at the border really couldn't take it anymore.
There wasn't enough cotton clothes to wear, and some of them were so cold that they didn't dare to come out of their tents.
There was a lack of food, and almost all the horses were slaughtered.
If this dragged on, they would collapse before Emperor Yan could attack them.
Head Fang also looked at Li Xiao excitedly.
"Yes." Li Xiao responded.
Then, he told the two of them the results of their negotiations with Prince Anyang.
The two of them were surprised.
Would that work?
Sell themselves as slaves and use the slave transportation route of the Zhou Trading Company to return?
It sounded unbelievable.
But after thinking about it, it might work.
The Zhou Trading Company belonged to Emperor Yan, and the checks were the most lenient. Using this route to escape had the lowest probability of being discovered.
"Zhou Ji will arrive in Nan'an County three days later. At that time, Prince Anyang's men would go to him immediately."
"We are only waiting for news from His Highness. When the news was confirmed, they could head to the border." Li Xiao continued.
Xiao Yang and Head Fang looked at each other. "Yes!" They excitedly cupped their fists at Li Xiao.
A moment later, a hint of worry appeared on Head Fang's face.
"Regarding the arrangements..."
A smile actually appeared on Li Xiao's face. Then, he turned his head and looked at Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue then looked at Head Fang and Xiao Yang and told them about the plan.
"His Highness has already arranged for winter clothes and wool for the winter. Then, we would build some houses in the manors so that they could live there."
"There are a lot of things to do in the manors. Building houses, clearing up wasteland..."
Head Fang smiled. "Don't worry about that. It's good to have something to do."
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
Then, she told them about her plans for the manor, the chili workshop, and the chain stores.
Hearing this, Head Fang and Xiao Yang were shocked.
Previously, the two of them had actually heard some things about Lin Xiaoyue from Li Xiaon. They admired Lin Xiaoyue even more at the moment.
After hearing her plans, they felt that their mistress was not just talented. She was simply a genius!
"I heard from Li Xiao that other than the assets that were confiscated, you have already dealt with the rest." Lin Xiaoyue said to Head Fang.
"Yes." Head Fang replied with a heavy heart.
The Nangong Clan had accumulated wealth for generations, but the Nangong Army's money had been taken away.
"In terms of manpower, 1 heard that we didn't lose much?" Lin Xiaoyue asked.
"Yes. Only 28 servants were lost. At present, we still have 378 servants."
Lin Xiaoyue thought of something.
"Are you willing to listen to my orders and help me manage the snack workshop?"
Head Fang was stunned for a moment, then his face lit up with joy.
"We will obey your orders!" He immediately knelt down on one knee.
Head Fang knelt down sincerely.
Previously, he had been worried about the retreat of the Nangong Army. After knowing that this problem could be solved, he was worried about their accommodation..
Chapter 425: Getting Ready to Move (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
After knowing that there was no need to worry about their accommodation, he started worrying about the future military expenses of the Nangong Army.
This was great. The mistress wanted to arrange for them to work at Liu's Express. It was obvious that she wanted to use the profit to pay for the military expenses of the Nangong Army.
In this way, the Nangong Army would be able to take root in Qingshi Town.
"No need to be so polite." Lin Xiaoyue motioned for Head Fang to stand up.
"Just now, i saw that there were quite a few people in the courtyard."
"Yes. Most of them had previously helped manage the businesses in Anyang County. After receiving the news, they came to Qingshi Town." Head Fang said. Lin Xiaoyue frowned.
"With so many people living in the same house, it's too eye-catching. In addition, you don't go out much. If you interact with your neighbors, it will only arouse more suspicion."
Head Fang did not reply.
He had actually thought about these problems, but he had not thought of a solution. Or perhaps, he didn't have the mood to think about these things at all. "Let's go to the manor." Lin Xiaoyue said.
"You and Xiao Yang can stay here and wait for the news. The rest of you go to the Zhou manor first. When the rest of the people arrive, try to arrange for them to go to Zhou Manor first."
"Yes!" Head Fang replied.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Li Xiao.
"After nightfall, let Fan Teng come and pick them up." She said to Li Xiao.
Fan Teng was Head Fan's son, so he was the best person to handle this matter. In addition, Li Xiao thought highly of Fan Teng.
According to her observation, that kid seemed to have already known Li Xiao's identity.
"Yes." Li Xiao replied.
Then, Lin Xiaoyue asked Head Fang about the situation before leaving with Li Xiao.
At the entrance of the Liu residence.
After sending off Li Xiao and Lin Xiaoyue, Head Fang returned to the courtyard and saw Xiao Yang standing at the door with a look of pity. His eyes were still looking at the door.
"Why are you still standing here?" He asked Xiao Yang.
Xiao Yang immediately revealed an aggrieved expression.
"She hasn't answered me yet. Does she have sisters or not?" He said pitifully.
"Hahaha..." He was immediately amused.
He reached out and patted Xiao Yang's shoulder.
"Alright, don't worry about it."
"The Mistress only has a younger brother and no other sisters!"
"You're so young. Why are you in such a hurry? When our brothers return, we'll settle in Qingshi Town. At that time, wouldn't it be easy for Master and Mistress to help you find a wife?"
Xiao Yang's originally dejected eyes instantly lit up.
"That's right! He donn't have to stay at the border anymore! Finding a wife will be easy!" He said in surprise.
Head Fang was amused again.
His big hand patted Xiao Yang's shoulder twice before he walked inside.
Return to the fields, get married and have children... who among the soldiers didn't want to?
Two days later.
The news that the First Prince was conferred the title of Prince Anyang and was in charge of Anyang County had reached Qingshi Town. It became the most discussed topic.
On the same day, Liang Yu brought Manager Liang to visit Lin Xiaoyue personally. He brought 40,000 taels of silver, as well as the title deeds of the nine manors and the slave contracts, to Lin Xiaoyue.
"The moving of the people around the manors is still being handled. Ten days later, it will be done." Liang Yu said to Lin Xiaoyue.
Although there weren't many villagers near each of the twelve manors, the total number was not a small number.
His Highness had instructed them to treat the villagers well, and the Liang Trading Company had paid a large sum of money to these people.
He had only just arrived at Anyang County, and the money he had was starting to run out.
If this continued, the Liang Trading Company would probably not be able to open a new restaurant this year.
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"Thank you, Young Master Liang." He thanked Liang Yu.
She trusted that Liang Yu would definitely be able to complete it in ten days.
"It's my responsibility." Liang Yu said.
"This time, apart from sending the money and the title deed, there is something else 1 would like to ask you about."
"Oh?" Lin Xiaoyue was puzzled.
"I heard that you have some suggestions for the management of the Liang
Trading Company. I came to ask for advice, hoping that you would not be stingy." Liang Yu said humbly.
Lin Xiaoyue was stunned.
Then, a smile appeared on her face.
"I wouldn't say that. It's just some superficial views."
Liang Yu looked excited.
"Please do." Standing up, he cupped his hands and bowed to Lin Xiaoyue..
Chapter 426: Getting Ready to Move (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Lin Xiaoyue quickly stood up.
"Young Master Liang is too polite."
"We will be working for His Highness in the future. Moreover, Young Master Liang is a franchisee of Liu's Express, so there is no need to be so formal."
Hearing this, Liang Yu finally relaxed.
He was really afraid that Lin Xiaoyue would ask him for money again. After deducting the money used to buy the Nangong Army and supplies, there was not much money left in the Liang Trading Company's account.
It was still a loss. He had sold some unprofitable businesses. Otherwise, he probably wouldn't have this money.
"Ms. Lin is right."
"As you said, we will set up a stall in the Liang Corporation's restaurant to sell braised pork and other snacks." Liang Yu said.
Knowing that Lin Xiaoyue would not ask him for money, Liang Yu continued.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Liang Yu.
Seeing Liang Yu's sincere face, he smiled.
"Thank you, Young Master Liang."
"Also, about Liu's Express' chain stores in another county..."
"Oh, if you need help, we will definitely help." Liang Yu said hurriedly.
As long as he didn't have to pay, it was fine.
Moreover, some of the soldiers from the Nangong Army that had been managing the Nangong family's business had already arrived at Qingshi Town.
With those people around, the Liang Corporation probably did not need to put in too much effort.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled with satisfaction.
"Young Master Liang, please take a seat." He said to Liang Yu.
Liang Yu cupped his hands at Lin Xiaoyue before returning to his seat.
Lin Xiaoyue sat back down.
"Please listen to my humble views."
Liang Yu's eyes lit up. "I'm all ears."
Lin Xiaoyue finally voiced out her thoughts.
"Previously, I mentioned the matter of creating a brand to Manager Liang. At that time, Manager Liang suggested that we can build Liang into a brand and put all the restaurants and eateries under the Liang's bran."
Manager Liang quickly nodded.
Liang Yu glanced at Manager Liang and then at Lin Xiaoyue, waiting for her to continue.
"It's actually possible to turn Liang into a brand."
"However, the Liang Corporation has many restaurants and eateries under its name. The effect is not that obvious just because it has the name Liang."
"Why don't we just use Liang in a few restaurants and eateries? Then, we could focus on building a specific brand."
Liang Yu's eyes were filled with doubt.
"Can you tell me more?" He asked Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and continued, "for example, Ruyi Restaurant and the Xinghua Eatery."
"If it were me, all the restaurants would be named Ruyi Restaurant, while all the eateries would be named Xinghua Eatery."
"In this case, Ruyi Restaurant and Xinghua Eatery could develop their own brands."
Liang Yu's eyes lit up, and he felt enlightened.
Yes, that was better!
Liu's Express was a good example.
By then, it would be difficult for others not to remember Liu's Express.
"You are a genius! 1 am impressed!" Liang Yu stood up excitedly and bowed to Lin Xiaoyue again.
"Young Master Liang, you flatter me."
"In addition, I would like to mention something about the brand. A corporation is not limited to creating only one brand."
"For example, I'm in the snack business now and I'm going to build a brand called Liu's Express. In the future, if I were to start another business, such as a clothing store..."
"I can also create a brand and name it...for example, Liu's Fashion."
"After we improve the quality and reputation, we'll open branches and expand our business in the form of a chain. We will then seize the market faster."
"Of course, if there's an intention to let others know that the two brands belong to the same owner, you could add a prefix or something. For example, Liu's Express, Liu's Fashion, and so on."
"However, with so many merchants in the Great Yan, it's inevitable to have a competitor with the same surname. 1 don't think it's meaningful to have the surname in the brand. In addition, in order to avoid attracting too much attention, there is no need to do so."
Liang Yu pondered as Lin Xiaoyue spoke.
The more he listened, the more impressed he was.
"Are you interested in opening a clothing store?" Then, he asked Lin Xiaoyue..
Chapter 427: Getting Ready to Move (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Liu's Fashion sounded pretty good.
If they could hire a good designer to design fashionable and good-looking clothes, he could create a brand.
Lin Xiaoyue was stunned and smiled awkwardly.
"No... I'm just giving an example."
Clothing store? She didn't know the fashion trends of this era. How could she open a clothing store?
The eateries were enough to keep her busy.
After all, she had to find something that she was good at and had an advantage in. Otherwise, the probability of losing money was far greater.
"Oh." Liang Yu replied thoughtfully.
Then, he discussed with Lin Xiaoyue about the business model of the chain store.
When Liang Yu left, his face was full of smiles. He felt like he had really gained a lot from this trip.
The next day.
Lin Xiaoyue and Li Xiao waited at the Liu residence for a day. It was only after nightfall that they finally received news from Prince Anyang.
Li Xiao opened the letter sent by Prince Anyang. After reading it, he gave the letter to Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue quickly read it, and a glint flashed across her eyes.
"Go back and inform His Highness and Young Master Liang and act according to plan." Li Xiao then rushed to the guard who delivered the letter.
"Yes! 1'11 take my leave now!" The guard responded and quickly left the courtyard.
After he had walked far away, Lin Xiaoyue stepped forward and placed her hand on Li Xiao's arm.
"Ask Fan Teng to inform Head Fang and Xiao Yang."
Seeing Li Xiao lower his head to look at her, Lin Xiaoyue continued, "let's go see mother together later."
This trip would take up a lot of time. She had to find a reasonable reason to be able to do so...
"Yes." Li Xiao responded and patted the back of Lin Xiaoyue's hand.
Then, he went to look for Fan Teng.
After dinner, the couple went to Liu Shi's room.
She told Liu Shi about the trip tomorrow.
"What? Why are you going for so long?" Liu Shi was very surprised.
"I received news from the Master in Jiangnan. It's rare to have such an opportunity to be introduced by Young Master Liang to meet with Boss Cheng."
"Boss Cheng is very interested in Liu's Express. If we can negotiate with Boss Cheng smoothly this time, we'll be able to open the stores in Jiangnan."
"Jiangnan is rich. At that time, we will be able to earn a lot of money every day!" At this point, Lin Xiaoyue's eyes sparkled.
Liu Shi frowned. She still didn't want to let her go.
"Why don't I go with you?" Following that, she said to his daughter.
Lin Xiaoyue's expression changed.
"We're not going to Jiangnan for a holiday. The journey is very bumpy. How can your body endure it?" She frowned and said to Liu Shi.
Seeing that Liu Shi did not speak, she said, "you see, we have to be quick this time. I am not even bringing Shanshan, so you don't have to come." Then, she tugged at Liu Shi's sleeve and asked in a coquettish tone.
Liu Shi sighed.
"Then you have to come back before the new year."
Lin Xiaoyue was delighted.
She turned her head and looked at Li Xiao.
Then, she looked at Liu Shi with a smile.
"Don't worry, Mother! We'll definitely be back before the new year!"
There was still one and a half months before the new year. It was enough!
"Don't worry, Mother." Seeing Liu Shi looking at him, Li Xiao assured her.
Liu Shi's expression looked a little better.
Then, she got up and said that she wanted to help the two of them pack.
In order to prevent Liu Shi from getting suspicious, Lin Xiaoyue did not stop her.
She returned to her room with Liu Shi.
Together with Liu Shi, they started packing. Liu Shi rambled on and on about safety on the road.
"Tomorrow, I'll ask Shanshan to go to town to pick up Zhou Shi. I'll ask her and Hei Gang to stay with you for a while."
"No need. With Uncle Fu and the others at home, it won't be chaotic even if you guys aren't around." Liu Shi said.
"With Zhao Fu and the others taking care of you, I'm naturally at ease.
However, there has to be someone at home who could make decisions at a critical moment, right?"
"Let them come over." Lin Xiaoyue insisted.
Liu Shi glanced at her daughter and finally nodded.
"Alright then."
Meanwhile, Fan Teng rode his horse to Qingshi Town overnight.
He informed Head Fang and Xiao Yang about the news.
Neither of them slept and were waiting for news worriedly.
When he received the message, his eyes were filled with excitement.
Xiao Yang was so excited that he almost gave Head Fang a hug.
"Get ready. Tomorrow morning, Master and Miss will come to Qingshi Town to meet with you." Fan Teng said.
The two of them were surprised.
Xiao Yang quickly exchanged glances with Head Fang to confirm that he had not heard wrongly.
"You said who're coming?" Then, he asked Fan Teng..
Chapter 428: Taking a Boat (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"Master and Miss."
"Didn't they say that the situation is critical? When I received the news, Master asked me to send you a letter. If not for the fact that he had to hide it from Madam, they would have already come over." Fan Teng said.
Xiao Yang and Head Fang looked at each other again, confirming that they had not heard wrongly.
"Miss is going too?" When Xiao Yang asked this question, he could not help but feel anxious.
Is this a joke? The journey was filled with danger. Why would he bring a woman along?
Even if Lin Xioayue was very talented in business, what did bringing back the Nangong Army have to do with business?
If they had to fight, not only would it scare her, their plan might be affected too.
"Yes!" Fan Teng nodded, breaking Xiao Yang's hopes.
Xiao Yang immediately frowned, his face turning bitter.
Seeing this, Fan Teng was a little confused.
Then, he quickly guessed the situation.
Seeing that Head Fang was also looking at him hesitantly, he was amused.
"Don't worry. Miss is not much weaker than Master." As he spoke, Fan Teng glanced at the depressed Xiao Yang.
"Who knows, she might even be better than you." Then, he said mockingly.
Previously, he thought that the Miss did not know martial arts. However, a few days ago, he was actually taught a lesson by her.
It started when Shanshan went to complain to Miss. Then, Miss came to him personally and taught him a lesson in front of Shanshan.
He thought that he had skills, and with Master's guidance, he felt even better.
He didn't expect that he would lose to the young miss so quickly.
Although he had forgotten to react to the last move, it was a fair fight. The Miss was strong!
Xiao Yang was shocked.
"Miss knows martial arts?" He didn't care about Fan Teng mocking him.
Beautiful, capable, and even knows how to fight?
That's his ideal woman.
Did Li Xiao have to be so lucky? He married the woman of his dreams!
Head Fang also looked at Fan Teng in surprise.
Fan Teng nodded.
"Yes! 1 only managed to perform a few moves before she beat me."
He was actually a little proud, like he did not feel embarrassed at all that he had lost to Lin Xiaoyue.
Xiao Yang sucked in his breath.
Fan Teng had fought with him before. At that time, it took about twenty moves to take down this kid.
If what this kid said was true, then she might really be more powerful than him!
Thinking of this, Xiao Yang no longer dared to underestimate Lin Xiaoyue.
In fact, he was even looking forward to the trip with Lin Xiaoyue.
"It's our blessing to have her as our mistress," Head Fang said with a smile.
"That's right!" Fan Teng said.
"Then I'll go back now."
"Alright." Head Fang replied.
After Fan Teng walked away, the smile on Head Fang's face gradually disappeared.
"Pack up and sleep early tonight." He said to Xiao Yang before leaving.
Xiao Yang looked in the direction where Fan Teng had left, then glanced at Head Fang was walking away. He rubbed his nose and returned to his room.
The next day.
Lin Xiaoyue and Li Xiao woke up early.
After accompanying Liu Shi for breakfast, they each rode a horse and set off for Qingshi Town.
Zhao Shanshan watched as her young miss rode off with a heroic bearing, her eyes filled with admiration.
Miss was so valiant.
Seeing this, Fan Teng could not help but feel sour in his heart.
"Miss' riding skills were taught by Master. If you want to learn, I can teach you someday." He said to Zhao Shanshan.
He realized that ever since Shanshan asked Miss to deal with him, Shanshan had admired Miss even more.
That gaze didn't look like she was looking at her mistress at all. Instead, it looked like...
Hmph, if she wasn't a woman and was married to Master, he would probably be jealous.
Zhao Shanshan glanced at Fan Teng in annoyance.
She turned around and left.
"Hey, Shanshan, don't go! My riding skills are really good! Let me teach you. In a few days, 1 guarantee that you will be able to gallop freely like Miss!" Fan Teng hurriedly chased after her.
"No need." Zhao Shanshan frowned and walked even faster.
"Why not? Miss thinks so highly of you. In the future, when you expand the business, riding a horse will be much faster than riding a carriage!" Fan Teng continued to chase after her..
Chapter 429: Taking a Boat (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Zhao Shanshan's eyes flickered. Then, her footsteps actually slowed down a little.
"Where?"
Although Fan Teng was stupid and annoying, what he said made sense.
Miss had high expectations of her. If she learned more skills, she would be able to serve her better in the future, right?
Fan Teng's eyes lit up.
"The dock in town! Go to the town dock and look for me in the afternoon. I'll teach you!" He quickly said.
He often went out with Master, and he was given a horse.
At the moment, he was only helping his master keep an eye on the work. There was not much that he needed to do.
In the afternoon, he had time to teach Shanshan how to ride a horse.
Hehe, at that time, he could also let others see how beautiful his future wife was.
At the thought of this, Fan Teng was smiling.
Zhao Shanshan frowned.
It was that silly smile again. What was he thinking about?
Seeing that Zhao Shanshan was watching him curiously, Fan Teng quickly averted his gaze.
"Master asked me to keep an eye on the dock. I have some free time in the afternoon..." Fan Teng explained.
Only then did Zhao Shanshan look away.
"Hmm." She responded and continued walking forward.
Fan Teng's face lit up as he continued to chase after Zhao Shanshan.
"Shanshan, you agree?!" Like a pug, he chased after Zhao Shanshan.
Not far away, Zhao Fu frowned.
Zhao Qiang, who was beside him, also looked annoyed.
"That brat!" Zhao Qiang said angrily and prepared to go to Fan Teng.
However, he was stopped by Zhao Fu.
"Come back." Zhao Fu said in a deep voice.
Zhao Qiang frowned and stopped in his tracks.
He turned around and looked at Zhao Fu with displeasure.
"Father!"
"Have you forgotten what I told you?" Zhao Fu said in a deep voice.
Zhao Qiang clenched his fist and lowered his head.
"I didn't! But that kid...he's too much!
His sister already despised him so much, but he still clung on to her.
Zhao Fu glanced at his second son.
Then, he sighed.
"If Shanshan really hated that kid, she wouldn't have agreed to learn how to ride a horse from him." After saying that, Zhao Fu left.
Zhao Qiang was stunned.
Then, he realized that he and his brother also knew how to ride a horse!
If Shanshan really didn't want to interact with that kid, why would she agree to learn from him?
"Father, wait for me!" Zhao Qiang's mind was in a mess. He quickly chased after his father.
He seemed to know something...
On the other side, Lin Xiaoyue and Li Xiao rode to Qingshi Town.
After that, they went to the Liu residence to meet up with Xiao Yang and Head Fang.
Half an hour later, the four of them left the Liu residence.
After changing, they headed to the dock of Qingshi Town.
Yes, the four of them changed their outfits.
Xiao Yang and Lin Xiaoyue became the young master and young miss.
Head Fang was the butler while Li Xiao was the guard.
Lin Xiaoyue also tried to conceal the scar on Li Xiao's face.
If one didn't look closely, one wouldn't be able to see the scars.
When Xiao Yang saw that his cousin had no scar on his face, he complimented him. Li Xiao gave him a cold look.
When they arrived at the dock, the group boarded the Liang Trading Company's merchant ship according to plan.
Manager Liang appeared and quickly invited them into a room on the second floor of the ship.
Manager Liang bowed to the couple.
Li Xiao glanced at Manager Liang and said nothing.
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at Li Xiao, then smiled at him.
"There's no need to be so polite."
"Thank you, Manager Liang."
Previously, she had helped Liang Yu with the Liang Corporation's business, and Liang Yu was grateful.
He arranged for Manager Liang to travel and work with them.
With his help, the rest of the journey would be much easier.
"Ms. Lin is too polite."
"It will take four days to go to Xiangshui Town."
"Merchant ships will stop at some docks along the way to load and unload goods or replenish their supplies."
"However, for safety reasons, it's best for you to stay on the ship. If you need something, let me know."
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"Thank you, Manager Liang."
Manager Liang hurriedly bowed to Lin Xiaoyue.
"You are welcome."
After that, Manager Liang informed Xiao Yang and Head Fang that their room was next door.
After that, he left.
After Manager Liang left, Xiao Yang leaned out.
After making sure that he had gone downstairs, he retreated and closed the door..
Chapter 430: Taking a Boat (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"Master." Xiao Yang came back and called out to Li Xiao with a questioning look in his eyes.
Li Xiao glanced at Xiao Yang and nodded.
Only then did Xiao Yang and Head Fang's expressions relax a little.
"Next, we'll do as Manager Liang says. We should be able to arrive at Xiangshui Town smoothly on the Liang Trading Company's merchant ship." Lin Xiaoyue said.
After arriving at Xiangshui Town, they would have covered nearly 70% of the journey.
There wasn't much distance left.
Xiao Yang and Head Fang nodded.
Because it was against the current, it took a longer time to go to Xiangshui Town by boat than by land.
However, the advantage was that it was more convenient and more relaxing.
After that, they would rest for five days. Only then would they have the energy to continue.
"Go back and rest. Be quiet for the next few days. Don't go out of the room unless necessary." Lin Xiaoyue said.
"Yes, Miss!" Only then did the two of them leave.
After the door was closed, Li Xiao held Lin Xiaoyue's hand.
"Thank you for your hard work." He said gently.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and leaned into Li Xiao's arms.
"No need to thank me. We're husband and wife, and your responsibility is mine."
"Besides, I'm still waiting for the Nangong Army to come back to work for me."
Li Xiao was amused and looked down at his wife.
Then, he kissed Lin Xiaoyue on the forehead.
The small room was filled with warmth.
After a while, the sound of sailing came from outside.
The merchant ship swayed a few times before slowly leaving the dock.
Then, the noise on the dock slowly disappeared, and the room quickly quieted down.
At first, Lin Xiaoyue was still in Li Xiao's arms and chatting with him.
However, after two hours, she was a little bored.
Feeling the urge to pee, Lin Xiaoyue finally decided to go out of the room to the toilet and get some fresh air.
Li Xiao suggested that they go together.
Hence, the couple left the room together.
In the next room, Xiao Yang and Head Fang stared at each other.
Hearing the commotion next door, they looked at each other and rushed to the door.
Xiao Yang opened the door and met Lin Xiaoyue's eyes.
Lin Xiaoyue felt a little awkward as if she had been caught.
"Hey!" Then, she waved at the two of them.
"Ahem, we've already left Qingshi Town's dock for quite some time. Now that the merchant ship is in the Chang River, it should be... no one can see us."
"So, if you feel bored, you can come out and get some fresh air."
"Let's keep our voices down so that we don't attract the attention of the people on the first floor."
She was the one who told everyone not to leave the room.
In such a small room, even half a day would be suffocating, let alone five days.
Xiao Yang's face lit up.
"Hehe, you're right!"
After saying that, he quickly rushed out of the room.
Then, he stretched his body and limbs.
He and Head Fang stayed in a room that was even smaller than theirs.
After staying in there for so long, he felt as if his limbs were being imprisoned.
Head Fang also followed Xiao Yang out of the room.
Although he didn't stretch his limbs like Xiao Yang, he still moved his joints.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled at the two of them in embarrassment again and asked Li Xiao to take her to the toilet.
The toilet was on the first floor of the cabin. It was not sage for her to go there alone.
When they reached the first floor, the door of the toilet was open, and there was no one inside.
Li Xiao stood guard and let Lin Xiaoyue go first.
Only then did Lin Xiaoyue enter and close the door.
It was actually a hole that was dug and directly discharged into the river.
Seeing the rapid flow of the river at the bottom, Lin Xiaoyue did not dare to look any longer and quickly solved her physiological needs.
After leaving the toilet, Li Xiao sent Lin Xiaoyue to the second floor.
Then, he went downstairs again to go to the toilet.
At this moment, Xiao Yang and Head Fang were standing by the railing.
The wind blew on their faces, and they looked relaxed.
Lin Xiaoyue walked towards the two of them.
"The winter wind is too cold. Be careful not to catch a cold."
It had snowed twice or thrice since winter arrived. The weather was getting colder and colder.
The weather would get even colder as they headed towards the border.
She thought of what Li Xiao had told her before. It was bitterly cold at the border, and it would usually snow before winter.
In winter, it would snow heavily, and she couldn't help but shiver.
The two of them turned around and looked at Lin Xiaoyue.
"Don't worry. 1 was at the border, and the wind was much colder than this."
"Many people's faces were frozen and cracked.."