Pei Wang said, "Among the eight prefectures outside the capital, Tianhe Prefecture has its own unique characteristics compared to the other prefectures."

"Because it is blocked by a high mountain range running from north to south, the moist air from the sea and the great river cannot pass through. Tianhe Prefecture is always drier than other prefectures and counties, sometimes even experiencing drought three times in five years. The people cannot live and work in peace and contentment, which also hinders economic development. In addition, the terrain is relatively low and flat, and in years with good rainfall, waterlogging is easy to form, leading to disasters. Many officials who have taken office in Tianhe Prefecture are helpless in the face of these problems and cannot achieve any political achievements."

"In managing droughts, floods, and all agricultural affairs, Princess Zhenguo not only made contributions in Liuzhou, but also used bridges to control floods in the South a few years ago, and helped the South survive the winter frost. Since then, the South has been able to grow an extra crop every year, filling the granaries of the people. It can be said that Princess Zhenguo has a lot of methods and measures for these thorny issues that affect people's livelihoods."

The emperor's expression softened considerably upon hearing this.

"Your words, Prince Pei, have struck a chord with me."

His gaze swept across the hall: "Anyone who has objections will be responsible for governing Tianhe Prefecture. If they fail to achieve any results within three years, I will strip them of their official rank and title."

As a result, the ministers dared not speak, and stammered with their heads down. Even those who were still indignant dared not easily raise their protests.

The emperor did have this consideration, but he didn't think it through in such detail. He only considered that as a princess who protected the country, she should have a sizable fiefdom, and it couldn't be too far away. Naturally, he couldn't give Qiao Lian'er a prefecture that was too prosperous or too good. So he thought of Tianhe Prefecture, which was okay but also a bit troublesome.

With Qiao Lian'er's abilities, Tianhe Prefecture will definitely have a new look once it's in her hands, which is certainly a good thing. If there's no improvement, then it will remain as her fiefdom. As long as everything is stable and she behaves herself, he won't make any additional demands.

However, since a minister had spoken at the Lantern Festival banquet, Qiao Lian'er was put in a situation where she had no choice but to comply.

The emperor looked at Qiao Lian'er and said, "Princess, just go ahead and show your skills in Tianhe Prefecture. I await your good news."

Qiao Lian'er respectfully replied, "This humble woman will certainly do her best and not disappoint Your Majesty."

She could have simply ignored it and maintained the status quo without anyone saying anything, but now she has to produce results.

If things don't improve, these ministers will insist that she return her fiefdom.

However, since it's my own land, putting in a little more effort won't do me any harm.

Now that no one raised any objections, the awarding ceremony began.

Qiao Lian'er received the seal of the Princess Zhenguo and the seal of Tianhe Prefecture, her heart surging with emotion.

From today onwards, her life has taken a significant step forward, with a broader path ahead, but she also needs to be more cautious.

If you climb too high, you'll fall hard if you do.

In addition to the fiefdom and the seal of office, boxes of rewards were carried to the Qiao residence; there were at least sixty boxes in total.

Those last few boxes were just an appetizer.

After the Lantern Festival banquet ended and he walked out of the palace, the ministers surrounded him.

"Congratulations, Princess Zhenguo."

"Congratulations! You're so young and promising; your future is limitless."

"We hope that Princess Zhenguo will continue to guide us in the future. The Murong family welcomes Princess Zhenguo to visit us at any time."

These officials, holding the first or second rank, naturally wanted to curry favor with Qiao Lian'er when they saw how much the emperor valued her.

Offering help may not bring any benefits, but showing interest is better than ignoring it.