As for the prices of luxury goods, there were no such constraints.

Because of this, Great Chu did not fall into chaos due to a sudden economic trend but continued to grow steadily under control.

Regarding the noble families, the imperial court does not allow monopolies now, which has affected the businesses of some noble families.

At the forefront are some medicinal herbs and paper, ink, brush, and inkstone.

However, these noble families are not foolish; they have a foundation of at least a hundred years and no shortage of silver, merely earning less than before. Although they feel frustrated, it has not touched their bottom line.

Despite this, feeling the pinch, they began to trouble Chu Heng.

Soon, there were many memorials in the court, suggesting that Prince Rong, without offspring, should select a Consort.

The number of these memorials was quite significant, with at least one-third of the court officials mentioning it.

Emperor Xuanming summoned Li Chongjin to the Imperial Study for a discussion that day.

Emperor Xuanming was painting while the silver earnings from the workshops each month filled his private treasury, making his purse grow fuller. Perhaps due to this sudden increase in wealth, he began indulging in pleasures.

"Fourth Son, what do you think?" Emperor Xuanming asked casually without lifting his head.

Li Chongjin bowed respectfully to Emperor Xuanming: "Father, I have only been married for two months. It is normal not to have offspring yet. However, because of my personal matters causing a stir at the morning court, I feel ashamed."

"Then tell me, how should I handle these memorials?"

Li Chongjin looked surprised but after a slight hesitation, determinedly knelt down: "As a Prince, I cannot destroy the Royal Family’s rules; we should act according to the regulations."

There are no rules in the Imperial Family regarding when a Prince can marry.

However, there are restrictions on marrying a Consort, such as having to marry a Consort if the Princess Consort has not conceived in two years. Of course, this applies to Consorts and not to other women in the Prince’s Imperial Harem.

The concubines of a Prince are also not allowed to have children before marrying a Princess Consort; hence, child-avoidance soup is sent each time.

This is to prevent an illegitimate child from being born before a legitimate child, a rule unprecedented in Great Chu.

"It seems you do not wish to marry another Consort," Emperor Xuanming looked up at him meaningfully.

Li Chongjin’s heart tightened, but he remained dignified and did not admit it: "Father’s insight is profound. Although I did not grow up in the palace, I studied diligently even while away from the capital, knowing that etiquette cannot be discarded. Since it is a tradition passed down from our ancestors, it must naturally be observed. Moreover, as Father once followed the Imperial Family’s rules, I naturally dare not overstep you and should uphold these traditions.

Emperor Xuanming’s expression softened a bit as he looked at this son, rarely by his side and not very close. In his mind, he wondered whether the words were spoken intentionally for him to hear or if they truly reflected his son’s thoughts.

Curious, Emperor Xuanming asked directly: "Fourth Son, do you truly believe in adhering to tradition?"

"I dare not deceive Father," Li Chongjin said with unwavering calm.

"If that’s the case, when I had your mother, the Imperial Harem wasn’t so empty. I bestow upon you four beauties, but before the main palace Princess Consort conceives, do not allow illegitimate children to appear. For everything else, it will proceed according to your own wishes."

"I... accept the decree." Even if unwilling, Li Chongjin had no choice but to accept these four beauties.

He knew all along that his father would not easily believe him.