I traveled back to the Qin Dynasty, and the First Emperor begged me to become his empress.

Chapter 144 Qin and Chu Sign Contract

In Yingcheng, the capital of the Chu Kingdom, the sun shines brightly on this land. Today, a crucial signing ceremony will be held here—the signing of a cooperation agreement for the Qin-Chu border economic zone.

Qin envoy Yao Jia, dressed in solemn official robes, every fold seeming to tell of the heavy responsibility he bore. He arrived at the ceremony site early, carefully inspecting every detail. The signing table, crafted from fine sandalwood, exuded a faint fragrance, and upon it lay exquisite bamboo slips and brand-new writing brushes. Yao Jia gently stroked the bamboo slips, his heart filled with anticipation for the future.

A short while later, King Fuchu of Chu arrived slowly, surrounded by his retinue. He wore a magnificent royal robe and a crown, his expression dignified. The Chu officials behind him all wore solemn expressions, fully aware of the importance of this signing. King Fuchu's gaze swept across the ceremony site, and he nodded slightly, expressing his satisfaction with the meticulous arrangements.

The two sides met, nodded slightly in acknowledgment, and then walked together to the signing platform. At this moment, a gentle breeze blew, and the flags of Qin and Chu fluttered softly, as if cheering for this grand event.

Yao Jia spoke first: "The agreement made by the King of Chu today is a fortunate event for both Qin and Chu. Once this border economic zone is established, it will surely enable the people of both countries to live and work in peace and contentment, and for trade to flourish."

King Fuchu of Chu nodded slightly: "What the envoy said is very true. I also hope that this cooperation will enable the two countries of Qin and Chu to develop together and create a brilliant future. I just don't know how this economic zone will be specifically planned?"

Yao Jia calmly replied, "Your Majesty, rest assured, a dedicated trade market will be established in the economic zone, where goods from both Qin and Chu can circulate freely. At the same time, post stations will be built to facilitate the travel of caravans."

King Fu Chu of Chu narrowed his eyes slightly, falling into a brief moment of contemplation. After a short while, he slowly spoke, "Hmm, this idea sounds quite good. However, on the crucial issue of taxation, we must discuss it carefully. I wonder how to reach a specific conclusion?" He then fixed his gaze on Yao Jia opposite him, hoping for a satisfactory answer.

Yao Jia smiled slightly and replied softly, "Your Majesty, the reason why Qin is establishing this economic zone is not only to set it up on the border with Chu, but also on the borders with Wei and Qi. Therefore, regarding taxation, it will naturally be carried out in accordance with Qin's current tax policy."

The words had barely left his mouth when King Fu Chu of Chu, who had been relatively calm, instantly turned grim. His brows furrowed, and he questioned in a low, forceful voice, “Hmph! Qin’s tax system is completely different from that of my great Chu! Besides, this so-called border economic zone plan was first proposed by your Qin state, but do you really think that all merchants will only choose to do business within Qin’s territory? If that were the case, then why would your Qin state specifically send an envoy to my Chu state to discuss this matter? Your Excellency, do you think what I said makes sense?”

Faced with King Fu Chu's sharp question, Yao Jia felt a chill run down his spine. After pondering for a moment, he replied, "What the King of Chu says is quite right. However, if Qin and Chu negotiate separately on the issue of taxation and eventually reach some kind of balance, what if there are differences between the tax agreements that Qin wants to reach with Wei and Qi? After all, this involves the interests of all four parties, and the slightest carelessness could lead to many conflicts and disputes."

After listening to Yao Jia's concerns, King Fu Chu of Chu remained silent, seemingly pondering a solution. After a long while, he finally raised his head again, his eyes resolute, and said, "In that case, in my opinion, it would be better to summon representatives from the four states to discuss this matter. Everyone should sit down together, lay out their thoughts and demands, and jointly explore a fair and reasonable tax plan that takes into account the interests of all parties. Only in this way can we ensure the smooth construction and long-term development of this border economic zone. What does the Qin envoy think?"

After hearing the King of Chu's words, Yao Jia fell into deep thought. After a long while, he slowly spoke, "What the King of Chu said is very true; this method does indeed have some feasibility. However, let's sign the contract for now. As for the specific details, we'll leave them to the King of Qin to decide after I return to Qin."

King Fuchu of Chu looked doubtful upon hearing Yao Jia's words. He said in a serious tone, "If after we have signed the contract, your Qin state intends to act unilaterally on the crucial issue of taxation, completely disregarding our interests, what should we do? In my opinion, it would be better to postpone the signing of this contract."

Upon hearing this, Yao Jia's heart tightened. He quickly bowed and earnestly replied, "King of Chu, please rest assured. Qin's plan to establish an economic zone is sincere, especially regarding taxation. We will absolutely not allow Chu to suffer any unfair treatment. We will certainly handle this matter in accordance with the principles of fairness and justice."

After listening to Yao Jia's explanation, King Fu Chu of Chu pondered for a moment and then said, "Very well, since you have put it this way, I will believe you for now. But let me make this clear: if Qin cannot effectively guarantee Chu's due rights in terms of taxation, then Chu will not hesitate to tear up this agreement."

Upon hearing this, Yao Jia breathed a sigh of relief and then confidently replied, "Your Majesty can rest assured."

With the discussions settled, the signing ceremony officially began. Yao Jia and King Fu Chu of Chu solemnly picked up their brushes and slowly signed their names on the paper, each stroke filled with determination and anticipation. At that moment, the entire hall was silent; one could almost hear the heartbeats of everyone present. Sunlight shone on their hands, as if witnessing this historic moment.

Then, cheers and applause erupted. Officials from both countries beamed with joy. A young Qin official excitedly said, "With this economic zone, trade between our two countries will surely become more frequent, and the lives of our people will get better and better."

An advisor from the State of Chu said thoughtfully, "This is not only an economic cooperation, but also a cultural exchange. We can learn from each other and make progress together."

After the successful signing ceremony, Yao Jia couldn't wait to bid farewell to the King of Chu, leave Yingdu, and gallop towards the Qin Dynasty. Sitting in his carriage, he was in high spirits. He believed that this cooperation was not just an ordinary agreement, but one that would change the fate of several nations in the future, and that this signing would surely leave a significant mark on history.