As dawn broke, flowers and plants in the General's Mansion courtyard swayed gently in the breeze, glistening with morning dew. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er had stayed up all night in the study; though their faces showed signs of fatigue, their eyes shone with confidence and anticipation for their future plans.

"Wan'er, matters concerning the people's livelihood are related to the foundation of Rong Kingdom, and cannot be neglected for a moment." Xiao Yichen stood in the courtyard, took a deep breath of the fresh morning air, and said slowly.

Lin Wan'er nodded gently, her gaze falling on a flower bush in the corner of the courtyard: "What the general said is very true. Just like these flowers and plants, they need to be carefully cared for. The same is true for the people. Only by giving them a stable and prosperous life can Rong Kingdom flourish."

Xiao Yichen turned slightly to look at Lin Wan'er: "I have been thinking about the terraced irrigation method you mentioned yesterday. If this technology can be widely promoted, it will definitely turn many mountainous areas into fertile fields. However, this requires a lot of manpower and resources, and we need to conduct a detailed survey of the terrain in various places to select suitable areas for building terraces."

Lin Wan'er approached Xiao Yichen and said softly, "General, regarding manpower, we can recruit local people to participate. Giving them reasonable compensation will not only solve the employment problem but also speed up the construction of the terraced fields. As for resources, we can take a portion from the imperial court's allocation and the general's treasury to purchase the necessary tools and materials. As for terrain surveying, we can summon geographers and experienced farmers from Rong Kingdom. They are more familiar with the local terrain and can accurately identify suitable locations."

Xiao Yichen gently grasped Lin Wan'er's hand, his eyes full of approval: "Wan'er, you've thought this through so thoroughly. Once the terraced fields are completed, we'll need to establish a comprehensive management and maintenance mechanism to ensure their long-term effectiveness."

Lin Wan'er tilted her head slightly and looked at Xiao Yichen: "In terms of management, we can set up terrace supervisors to regularly inspect the irrigation of the terraces and the stability of the ridges. For maintenance, we can mobilize the local people to organize several collective maintenance activities every year and repair any damaged parts in a timely manner."

Then they discussed the introduction of new crop varieties.

Xiao Yichen frowned: "Wan'er, it's good to introduce superior varieties, but we need to consider whether the climate and soil conditions of Rong Kingdom are suitable. We shouldn't introduce them blindly to avoid wasting resources."

Lin Wan'er smiled and replied, "General, rest assured. Before introducing it, I will arrange for someone to conduct trial plantings. We will first select a small plot of land to simulate the climate and soil environment of different regions in Rong Kingdom and observe the growth of the crops. Only varieties that are successfully planted in the trial will be promoted nationwide. At the same time, we can also invite agronomists from other countries to come and exchange ideas and provide guidance, so that we can learn from their planting experience and techniques."

Regarding the agricultural reward system, Lin Wan'er had a clear vision: "General, the reward system can be divided into multiple levels. For farmers whose yields are significantly higher than the average level, generous material rewards will be given, such as grain, farm tools, and livestock. For farmers who have innovative and effective farming techniques, in addition to material rewards, honorary titles such as 'Agricultural Master Craftsman' and 'Cultivation Master' will be awarded, and their deeds will be publicized in various places to encourage more farmers to actively explore and innovate."

Xiao Yichen nodded in agreement: "In this way, the enthusiasm of farmers will be greatly mobilized. The agricultural development of Rong Kingdom is expected to reach a new level."

When discussing water conservancy projects, Xiao Yichen's expression turned serious: "Wan'er, the construction of large-scale water conservancy projects such as canals is a massive undertaking that will take a long time. We need to develop detailed construction plans and budgets to ensure the smooth progress of the projects."

Lin Wan'er said, "General, the construction plan can be carried out in stages. First, determine the route of the canal, and then carry out construction in sections, with a dedicated person in charge for each section to strictly control the quality and progress of the project. In terms of budget, in addition to the financial support from the imperial court and the general's mansion, we can also call on wealthy merchants in the private sector to donate funds. Those who donate will be given certain policy preferences or honorary awards."

Regarding business development, Lin Wan'er continued to elaborate on her ideas: "General, the construction of commercial districts should focus on planning and layout. Different industry areas should be clearly defined, such as silk area, porcelain area, and general merchandise area, to facilitate customers' shopping and also to promote competition and cooperation among merchants."

Xiao Yichen added, "We also need to strengthen the management of commercial districts. We need to formulate strict market rules, crack down on counterfeit and shoddy goods, and maintain a fair and competitive market environment. We should severely punish violators as a warning to others."

Regarding the formation of the caravan's escort team, Xiao Yichen said, "The members of the escort team must undergo strict screening. They must not only have superb martial arts skills, but also good discipline and character. We can select some key personnel from the army, and recruit some martial arts masters from the civilian population to form the escort team together."

Lin Wan'er nodded: "At the same time, the guard team should be equipped with excellent equipment, such as warhorses, weapons, and protective armor. They should also be trained and assessed regularly to ensure that their combat effectiveness is always maintained at a high level."

Regarding cultural education, Lin Wan'er suggested: "General, the school's curriculum should focus on combining practicality with fun. In addition to traditional classical recitation, practical courses can be added, such as having students studying medicine participate in free clinics, and students studying military strategy conduct simulated military exercises."

After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen said, "In addition, the school's teaching staff should be continuously strengthened. A teacher evaluation system can be established, and teachers with outstanding teaching achievements can be rewarded and given promotion opportunities. Teachers should be encouraged to exchange teaching experiences with each other to improve teaching standards together."

As the sun rose higher, its rays bathed the entire General's Mansion. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er's discussion on policies for the people's livelihood came to a temporary end. They knew that implementing these policies would require long-term effort and perseverance, but they did not back down, for they held deep love for the people of Rong Kingdom and a firm belief in the prosperity of the nation.

"Wan'er, today's discussion has filled me with confidence in the future of Rong Kingdom. As long as we move forward steadily step by step, the lives of the people will surely get better and better." Xiao Yichen gazed into the distance, his eyes full of anticipation.

Lin Wan'er leaned gently on Xiao Yichen's shoulder: "General, with you and me working together, we can overcome any difficulty. The future of Rong Kingdom will surely be as bright as the rising sun."

Sunlight streamed onto the training ground of the General's Mansion. Xiao Yichen had just finished his morning practice; his movements were agile, and the long sword in his hand gleamed coldly in the sunlight. Lin Wan'er stood to the side, smiling as she watched him. As Xiao Yichen sheathed his sword, she stepped forward to greet him.

"General, your swordsmanship is even more formidable today," Lin Wan'er said softly.

Xiao Yichen, slightly out of breath, smiled and said, "Wan'er, discussing the Rong Kingdom with you these past few days has filled me with fighting spirit, and even my martial arts practice has become more energetic. Speaking of which, I have some new ideas about the business assistance we discussed yesterday."

As they talked, they walked towards the stone table in the courtyard. After sitting down, Xiao Yichen continued, "Regarding the reduction of commercial taxes, I think we can't generalize. For some emerging industries that are beneficial to the long-term development of Rongguo, such as workshops related to the research and development of new textile technologies, we should not only reduce commercial taxes but also grant them a certain period of tax exemption to encourage them to innovate boldly. As for some traditional, profitable but relatively mature industries, such as the brewing industry, we can appropriately reduce the tax rate, but at the same time guide them to improve quality and build brands. We can establish awards to reward those breweries that have made outstanding contributions to the quality and cultural connotation of their wines."

Lin Wan'er nodded in agreement: "General, your plan is brilliant. In this way, emerging industries will have the impetus and space to develop, and traditional industries will be able to continuously upgrade in the competition, making Rong Kingdom's commercial structure more rational and healthy. In the construction of commercial districts, in addition to the industry-specific zoning I mentioned earlier, we can also create some distinctive streets, such as a food street that gathers specialties from all over Rong Kingdom and even neighboring countries to attract tourists and local residents; and a cultural and art street that displays exquisite handicrafts such as calligraphy, painting, ceramics, and embroidery, which can not only promote cultural exchange but also drive related commercial development."

Xiao Yichen's eyes lit up: "Wan'er, this idea of ​​themed streets is excellent. However, to truly make these streets prosperous, we need to focus on promotion and event planning. For example, we can hold a food festival on the food street, inviting renowned chefs from all over to showcase their culinary skills and select the most popular dishes. This will not only attract crowds but also enhance the food street's reputation. As for the cultural and art street, we can regularly hold auctions, art exhibitions, and other events to let more people know about Rong Kingdom's cultural and artistic treasures and attract collectors and enthusiasts."

Lin Wan'er continued, "General, in encouraging local merchants to explore overseas markets, we can establish specialized overseas trade offices in coastal cities to provide merchants with overseas market information, trade policy consultation, and translation services. At the same time, we can organize merchant fleets to ensure the safe transportation of goods. For those merchants who successfully explore overseas markets and bring in substantial foreign exchange earnings for Rong Kingdom, we should award them generous rewards and honorary titles to set an example and encourage more merchants to engage in overseas trade."

After a moment of contemplation, Xiao Yichen said, "The safety of the merchant fleet is of paramount importance. In addition to recruiting experienced sailors and crew, we also need to equip them with powerful weaponry and establish close ties with the navy so that we can receive timely support in the event of pirates or other maritime threats. Furthermore, we can sign trade agreements with overseas countries to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Rong Kingdom merchants in other countries and reduce trade risks."

Lin Wan'er also had further thoughts on the training and management of the caravan escort team: "General, in addition to daily martial arts training, the escort team should also strengthen their learning of business knowledge and foreign languages. This way, they can better communicate and cooperate with merchants during escort missions and handle occasions involving interactions with foreign merchants. In terms of management, a strict assessment system should be established. Team members who perform outstandingly in escort missions should be promoted and rewarded with bonuses; while those who violate discipline or neglect their duties should be severely punished."

Xiao Yichen added, "We can also design special insignia and flags for the escort teams to make them easily identifiable on trade routes, while also serving as a deterrent. In addition, before the caravans set off, we can rationally allocate the number of escort team members and their equipment based on the size of the caravans and the value of their goods, ensuring that each caravan receives adequate protection."

Speaking about the construction of the business guild hall, Lin Wan'er said, "General, the business guild hall is not only a place for businessmen to exchange and cooperate, but also a distribution center for business information. We can set up an information release area in the guild hall, where businessmen can release supply and demand information, cooperation intentions, etc. At the same time, the guild hall will regularly hold business seminars and lectures, inviting industry experts and successful businessmen to share their experiences and insights to help businessmen improve their business literacy and management capabilities."

Xiao Yichen nodded in agreement: "The guild hall can also establish an arbitration institution, so that when disputes arise between merchants, they can be resolved fairly and quickly here. This will help maintain commercial order and enhance merchants' confidence in Rongguo's business environment. In addition, the business guild hall can establish connections with chambers of commerce in various regions, forming a vast business network and promoting the overall development of Rongguo's commerce."

As time passed, the sunlight grew increasingly intense. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, however, remained oblivious, immersed in a deep discussion about the commercial development of Rong Kingdom. Each idea, like a spark of starlight, converged into a brilliant business blueprint, illuminating the path to future prosperity for Rong Kingdom.

"Wan'er, if these policies to boost commerce can be successfully implemented, Rong Kingdom's commerce will surely flourish and become a powerful support for the country's prosperity," Xiao Yichen said confidently.

Lin Wan'er smiled and replied, "General, as long as we work together, we will surely overcome all difficulties and enable Rong Kingdom to set sail in the tide of commerce."

Inside the study of the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er sat facing each other at the table. The tea on the table had gradually cooled, but they were oblivious, still focused on discussing Rong Kingdom's diplomatic affairs. Sunlight streamed through the cracks in the window, casting dappled shadows on the floor, as if it too were quietly listening to their plans.

"Wan'er, now that Rong Kingdom has just been established, the attitudes of the surrounding countries towards us are still unclear. Diplomacy is like walking on a tightrope; we must be extremely cautious." Xiao Yichen frowned slightly, his eyes showing seriousness.

Lin Wan'er nodded gently and said, "General, you are absolutely right. I think we should first send envoys to visit the surrounding countries to express Rong's desire for peace and friendship. The selection of envoys is of utmost importance. We need to choose people who are eloquent, intelligent, and familiar with the national conditions of each country."

After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen said, "We can have the senior diplomat, Lord Li, lead the delegation. He has participated in diplomatic affairs many times and has rich experience. We can also select a few young, promising, and quick-witted officials as assistants. They can inject new vitality and ideas into the diplomatic mission."

Lin Wan'er agreed, saying, "When sending envoys to various countries, the delegation must not only convey Rong's desire for peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit, but also gain a thorough understanding of each country's political, economic, and military situation. For example, Zhao's military strength has increased in recent years, and it attaches great importance to the resources in its border regions; Wei is known for its developed commerce, and its domestic merchant families also have a certain influence in politics. Only by knowing ourselves and our enemies can we take the initiative in diplomatic games."

Xiao Yichen continued, "Regarding Zhao, we can propose some cooperative intentions in military exchanges, such as jointly conducting military exercises in border areas to jointly deal with possible external threats, thereby alleviating their concerns about border resources. At the same time, economically, we can exchange Rong's specialty agricultural products for Zhao's high-quality iron ore to achieve resource complementarity."

After a moment's thought, Lin Wan'er replied, "Regarding Wei, we can focus on discussing commercial cooperation. We propose establishing a commercial alliance between Rong and Wei to lower trade barriers and promote the flow of goods between the two countries. For example, Rong's exquisite handicrafts such as silk and porcelain will certainly have a broad market in Wei, while Wei's advanced production tools and technologies can also be used by Rong. In addition, we can invite Wei's merchant families to invest in Rong and jointly develop commercial projects."

When discussing cultural exchanges with other countries, Lin Wan'er's eyes shone brightly: "General, cultural exchange is a bridge to enhance friendship between nations. We can hold a cultural festival in Rong Kingdom, inviting artists and scholars from neighboring countries to showcase their cultural arts and academic achievements. At the same time, Rong Kingdom can also send its own cultural delegations to various countries to spread Rong Kingdom's traditional culture, such as Rong Kingdom's calligraphy, painting, and music. Through the fusion and collision of cultures, we can enhance the understanding and love of people from all countries for Rong Kingdom."

Xiao Yichen smiled and nodded: "Wan'er, this plan is excellent. The cultural festival can also include some interactive activities to allow people from different countries to participate, such as cultural skills experiences and cultural knowledge competitions. This will not only increase the fun but also deepen exchanges between us. When selecting cultural delegations, we should focus on selecting those who have in-depth knowledge of Rong Kingdom culture and are good at communication, to ensure that the charm of Rong Kingdom culture can be fully demonstrated."

Regarding the establishment of a diplomatic alliance, Xiao Yichen's expression was serious: "We must actively discuss the establishment of a diplomatic alliance with neighboring countries. The purpose of the alliance should be to maintain regional peace and stability and promote common development. Within the alliance, a regular meeting mechanism should be established so that countries can jointly discuss major regional issues, such as jointly responding to natural disasters and combating transnational crime."

Lin Wan'er added, "The alliance also needs to formulate clear rules and charters to stipulate the rights and obligations of each country. There should be corresponding sanctions for countries that violate the alliance rules. At the same time, in order to enhance the cohesion of the alliance, some internal activities can be organized, such as jointly hosting sports games and cultural and artistic exhibitions, to enhance the feelings and trust between countries."

On diplomatic etiquette and details, Lin Wan'er also offered her insights: "General, etiquette is important in diplomatic occasions. We need to provide rigorous etiquette training to the delegation and officials involved in diplomatic affairs so that they are familiar with the etiquette and customs of various countries. When receiving foreign envoys, we must also treat them with the highest level of etiquette. From the arrangement of banquets and accommodation to the presentation of gifts, everything must be carefully prepared to showcase Rongguo's great power demeanor."

Xiao Yichen wholeheartedly agreed: "The choice of gifts should be thoughtful and representative. For example, Rongguo's handmade embroidery and specialty teas can not only reflect Rongguo's traditional culture and craftsmanship, but also allow foreign envoys to feel Rongguo's sincerity. In terms of banquet arrangements, Rongguo's traditional cuisine can be combined with music and dance to create a unique cultural feast for foreign envoys."

As the last rays of the setting sun shone through the study window, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er finally concluded their long conversation about diplomatic affairs. They knew that the path of diplomacy was full of challenges and uncertainties, but as long as they planned carefully and moved forward steadily, Rongguo would surely be able to stand firm in the complex international relations, win respect and friendship, and lay a solid foundation for the country's peace, stability and long-term development.

"Wan'er, diplomacy is a long and arduous task, but I believe that as long as we uphold the principles of peace, friendship, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, Rong Kingdom will surely shine on the diplomatic stage," Xiao Yichen said with a firm gaze.

Lin Wan'er rose slightly, walked to Xiao Yichen's side, and took his hand: "General, with you and me working together, Rong Kingdom's diplomacy will surely open up a new world."