C222 – You Two Have Such a Good Relationship
Zuo Shaoqing faced a straightforward decision. Firstly, he considered the trading company’s strength, the number of boats, and the workforce. Even if he were inclined, with only two or three boats, he couldn’t facilitate the deal.
Consequently, the remaining attendees were all affluent coastal merchants. Understandably, none contested this reality, recognizing their inability to match the other party’s resources.
The second condition stipulated that this venture wasn’t without cost. Aside from taxes, a share of profits was to be allocated to the government. Truthfully, this was originally a governmental responsibility, seeking assistance externally.
There were no objections. As merchants, they harbored skepticism toward windfalls, preferring not to accept offerings free of charge, fearing ulterior motives.
“Profit from the iron mine must be shared with the government. Essentially, ownership of the project should favor those willing to relinquish the most.” Zuo Shaoqing succinctly cast the lure. While some civil officials found the Prefect’s efficiency questionable, the majority concurred.
This was a significant sum. Wealth was abundant, yet officials dreaded destitution!
It wasn’t until the afternoon that the matter concluded. Zuo Shaoqing entertained the merchants with a smile, while the coastal merchant who didn’t contest wore a rueful expression.
They were more amenable than you were. The government extended an opportunity, why did you decline?
“Manager Wang, your generosity knows no bounds! Sixty percent—is it feasible for you to maintain such profits?” A rotund coastal merchant taunted Wang Xu.
Wang Xu, torn between worry and elation, maintained a neutral expression.
“Ah, Shopkeeper Sun, you’re aware of the current state of the Wang Family. Without full commitment, stagnation is inevitable.”
Observing Wang Xu’s demeanor, envy dissipated among the attendees. They offered words of consolation and encouragement outwardly, secretly hoping for the Wang Family’s misfortune.
After lunch, Zuo Shaoqing conversed privately with Wang Xu. Gazing at the despondent Manager Wang, he inquired with a smile, “No regrets, I hope?”
“Impossible,” Wang Xu replied anxiously. “I’m just concerned.”
Zuo Shaoqing dismissed the servants, poured tea for Wang Xu himself, and reassured the flattered Master Wang, “In truth, 40% of the profits suffice. As long as Boss Wang’s fleet avoids misfortune such as piracy or storms, their worries will dissipate.”
“Indeed, indeed. What business doesn’t carry risks? However...” Master, are you implying...?”
Zuo Shaoqing lightly tapped the table with his finger. “Given this is a state affair, it naturally enjoys tax exemption.” Zuo Shaoqing gestured toward the table. “Given this falls under governmental purview, it naturally enjoys tax exemption.”
Wang Xu, taken aback, mentally calculated. Finally, his apprehensions were assuaged.
“This matter doesn’t implicate me. Since my actions weren’t motivated by personal gain, and I didn’t exhibit favoritism toward the Wang Family, it’s solely due to Boss Wang’s earned opportunity. I’ll petition the imperial court to grant the Wang Family the title of imperial merchant.”
Despite being consumed by his duties, he fretted incessantly about Lu Zheng day after day. Wrapped in his thick blanket late at night, he pondered Lu Zheng’s whereabouts. Was he enduring the cold? Was Ann safe?
“Ah...” Zuo Shaoqing sighed, running his fingers through his hair as he toyed with his brush.
“What troubles you, my lord? Is there a matter weighing on your mind?” He Min presented him with a written document.
“The new year approaches in half a month, yet Master Lu has not returned. If he delays further, he won’t make it back to the capital in time.”
“This official recalls Master Lu’s intention for you to return to the capital ten days earlier. Upon his return, he will hasten back on horseback to reunite with you.”
Affixing the official seal onto the document, Zuo Shaoqing returned it to He Min’s custody. “How could I bear not seeing his safe return?”
He Min’s lips curled into a genuine smile as he commended, “The bond between you two is truly remarkable!”
Previously, when many speculated that Zuo Shaoqing might be forsaken by Master Lu or replaced by a newcomer, few envisioned them growing old together.
Considering Duke Zhen’s proclivities for polygamy, this was hardly surprising.
Yet, Zuo Shaoqing’s enduring favor with Master Lu, even on the day of their wedding, defied expectations. Their affection surpassed that of a typical couple, with no signs of a new bride in Master Lu’s chambers.
Reflecting on it, finding a lifelong companion meant shared interests mattered more than gender!
However, such notions remained theoretical. Even if one leaned towards same-sex attraction, few possessed the audacity of Master Lu, willing to challenge societal norms and familial expectations.
Zuo Shaoqing arched an eyebrow, his radiant smile nearly blinding. “Absolutely!”
He Min intended to jest, but his playful mood dissipated upon witnessing Luo Xiaoliu’s hasty entrance, accompanied by Zuo Xiaolang’s ungainly dash.
Zuo Shaoqing cast a stern glance at Zuo Xiaolang. After all this time, why couldn’t he shake off this behavior?
“Master... Grandpa... He’s returned...” Luo Xiaoliu stammered.
Zuo Shaoqing’s heart skipped a beat as he seized him, demanding clarity. “Speak clearly!”
Luo Xiaoliu grinned foolishly. “Master Lu has returned... My family’s Yinyi has returned too...”
With a swift whoosh, Zuo Shaoqing vanished from the hall.
Luo Xiaoliu hesitated briefly before scooping up Zuo Xiaolang and chasing after him!