Shen Qinghe bowed deeply, his voice steady and firm: "Your Majesty, everything I have said is true. The yield of four shi per mu is not a fabrication, but a fact that truly exists in my hometown of Qingshi County."

Seeing that he looked frank and open, not like someone who was just talking nonsense, Emperor Yongning immediately sat up straight and became solemn: "Tell me the details."

“In my hometown of Qingshi County, an experimental field was established three years ago…” Shen Qinghe recounted how the villagers of Shenjia Village selected superior seeds from ordinary seeds and planted them in different plots using different fertilization methods.

Emperor Yongning listened intently, his dignified expression gradually replaced by surprise and joy. When Shen Qinghe finished reporting, the emperor clapped his hands and laughed, his voice booming: "Since there is such a beneficial matter for the country and its people, why didn't you report it sooner, my dear minister?"

Shen Qinghe bowed respectfully and explained, "Your Majesty, I learned of this matter by chance from a letter home. As for the specific methods of cultivation and the key points of seed selection, I have not yet fully grasped the intricacies and dare not submit a memorial rashly. It was only because it is indeed true that I casually mentioned it when I was chatting with His Highness the Crown Prince a few days ago."

The young prince, who had just been arrogant, couldn't help but slightly raise his chin, his face showing a smug look of "I knew it."

Emperor Yongning pondered for a moment, then suddenly turned to the eunuch holding the imperial scribe beside him: "I remember that Prefect Wang Xian of Pingyang was transferred back to the capital a few days ago. Has he arrived yet?"

The eunuch bowed and replied, "Your Majesty, Lord Wang arrived in the capital yesterday and submitted a memorial to pay his respects."

"Very well! Summon Wang Xian to the palace immediately!" He turned to Shen Qinghe, his eyes gleaming. "Since this matter originated from Qingshi County, Wang Xian must know the most about it. When he arrives, you must verify it with him thoroughly."

***

As soon as Song Wanyin stepped into the room, she saw Wang Xian hurriedly changing into his official robes and couldn't help but ask, "Husband, what's wrong? Didn't you say that you don't need to attend court as the year draws to a close?"

Wang Xian paused in fastening his belt, then turned and said gently, "Just now, someone from the palace suddenly came with an imperial decree, ordering me to enter the palace immediately to meet the Emperor."

Seeing the worry on Song Wanyin's face, he reached out and gently stroked her cheek. "Don't worry, it's probably nothing serious. You take good care of Manman at home, I'll be right back."