"I'm thinking of setting up tea stalls near post stations or opening tea houses in the city. Do you have any connections?" Jiang Huaiyu asked casually.
Normally, this would be a matter for Jin Chong to handle. Jiang Huaiyu could easily step back, hand him the tea-making techniques, and simply wait for her share of the profits. But she didn't want to be so uninvolved this time.
Qin Ziqin raised an eyebrow. "Tea stalls and tea houses? That doesn't sound like a money-making venture. Why bother?"
In Da Yun, tea wasn't particularly popular. Its flavors—bitter, salty, or overly sweet—were hardly appealing. Though it was occasionally spiced with herbs and considered thirst-quenching, Qin Ziqin found it no better than plain water. Moreover, tea wasn't cheap. A pot typically cost six copper coins or more, making it a luxury for commoners. They would rather drink untreated water than waste money on it.
Tea houses did exist but primarily served as venues for storytelling or light refreshments rather than tea appreciation.
Jiang Huaiyu smiled faintly. "It's not necessarily unprofitable. I've mastered a tea-processing method that produces leaves of pure, distinctive flavor. There are eight types in total. The quality of the tea depends on the craftsmanship. The lesser-quality leaves can be sold cheaply at tea stalls, while the better ones will be featured in the tea houses."
Qin Ziqin almost missed a step. Steadying himself, he asked, "Tea… processing techniques?"
Like most people, Qin Ziqin was skeptical of unfamiliar ideas. Even though Jiang Huaiyu had a track record of success, the notion of processed tea leaves seemed implausible.
"Don't worry about the taste," Jiang Huaiyu said confidently. Tea had withstood the test of time for centuries in her memories. She had no doubt it would be well-received here. Her gaze drifted to the intricately patterned carpet underfoot. "I thought Da Yun was at its zenith, but seeing so many refugees fleeing the borders only to be turned away at the capital gates is disheartening. They wander aimlessly, relying on charity. A tea stall might not make much money, but it can be steady. I plan to employ these refugees, at least giving them shelter and some stability."
Qin Ziqin's expression softened, his usual carefree demeanor giving way to something more serious. "I never thought you, of all people, would have such compassion." He laughed lightly, though there was a heaviness to his tone. "The plight of the refugees weighs on me as well. While court politics and border disputes rage on, the common folk suffer. The raids by disguised barbarians leave entire villages in ruin. Even if we intercept most of them, the damage is already done for those who've endured such horrors."
Jiang Huaiyu sighed. "I've seen what a true golden age looks like. That's why I find myself indifferent to much of what happens here. But seeing those refugees trudging along, desperate for handouts, it's impossible to ignore."
Qin Ziqin fell silent for a moment before replying, "I have a few friends in key positions—some officials, others merchants. I'll write them letters asking for their cooperation. Start with a few locations. If the idea catches on, you can expand gradually."
Though not well-versed in business, Qin Ziqin's advice was pragmatic.
Jiang Huaiyu nodded. "I appreciate your help."
"No need for thanks." Qin Ziqin smirked, his charming, carefree demeanor returning. "For the chance to see you smile, I'd go to any length, no matter the risk."
Rolling her eyes, Jiang Huaiyu retorted, "Let's talk about something serious for once."
"Oh?" Qin Ziqin's tone was teasing, his chiseled jaw tilting upward. "The tea stalls and tea houses weren't serious?"
By now, they'd reached the second floor. Were it not for the lack of bystanders, Jiang Huaiyu might have been tempted to kick him.
"Tea houses attract people from all walks of life. When they're relaxed, they tend to let things slip. You can plant your own people—staff, managers, whatever—to gather intelligence. It could prove invaluable to a certain marquis."
The playful glint in Qin Ziqin's eyes vanished, replaced by a sharp, calculating gaze. Ensuring no one was within earshot, he dropped his carefree facade. His tone was icy. "That's a dangerous suggestion, Jiang Huaiyu."
"Surely, as a commander, you understand the importance of scouts," Jiang Huaiyu countered calmly. "You've placed your trust in me, so consider this a gift in return."
Qin Ziqin's mind raced back to their first encounter. At the time, he had been on the brink of a fatal decision, burdened by vengeance and the weight of his family's legacy. He had considered silencing her to protect his secret, but when he saw her holding a child, he hesitated. That hesitation had led to an unlikely friendship.
Though their interactions were limited, Qin Ziqin valued her as an irreplaceable ally. She was unlike any woman he had ever met—graceful yet resolute, exuding confidence that outshone even the most accomplished men.
He couldn't help but feel grateful for that moment of mercy.
"Ziqin thanks you for this invaluable gift," he said sincerely, inclining his head slightly.
He accepted her suggestion without further debate. Though the implications of such an operation could be treasonous, he understood its necessity.
The two descended the staircase of Jiangwai Tower, their conversation unusually casual for such a serious matter. In just a few words, they had reached an agreement that could alter the course of events.
Outside, sunlight glinted off the crimson pillars and smooth bricks. The bustling streets were filled with curious onlookers admiring the grandeur of the newly built tower. Jiang Huaiyu felt a rare lightness in her heart.
Smiling faintly, she remarked, "I must admit, I'm partial to a leisurely life of sipping tea, listening to music, and watching the seasons change."
Qin Ziqin chuckled. "People think I'm all about pleasure-seeking, but they should meet you. You've truly mastered the art."
With that, he sauntered off, pausing only to flirt shamelessly with a group of passing maidens. Their indignant giggles followed him down the street.
Jiang Huaiyu shook her head with a smile, finding her waiting sedan and heading home.
At home, Aunt Xu greeted her at the door. "Madam, while you were out, several important individuals sent invitations. I've placed them in the main hall for you to review."
"Who are these 'important individuals'?" Jiang Huaiyu asked, already suspecting one of them to be Princess He Jinyu.
"One is from the Ninth Princess," Aunt Xu replied. "The other two don't specify the sender, but they're written on Yunhua paper. I suspect they're from the palace or another noble household."
Entering the room, Jiang Huaiyu scooped up Tangbao, who toddled over, babbling, "Mama! Food!"
"Such a clever boy!" Jiang Huaiyu praised, her smile softening as she kissed his cheek. "Let me read these invitations first, and then I'll tell you a story, okay?"
"Story!" Tangbao clapped his chubby hands in delight.
The first invitation was, as expected, from Princess He Jinyu. Her lively handwriting invited Jiang Huaiyu to join her for fishing at the lotus pond the next day. Smiling, Jiang Huaiyu set it aside and opened the other two.
Her smile faded as she read the contents. The first was from the Crown Prince himself, inviting her to a grand banquet at Yinghua Terrace on the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The second, written in identical handwriting and on matching paper, bore the name Li Sumeng.
Jiang Huaiyu's expression grew colder. It was clear the two were coordinating.
The Crown Prince's invitation alone was puzzling. Jiang Huaiyu had kept a low profile despite her success in business. Why would he take an interest in her now?
The answer lay in the second invitation. Li Sumeng's involvement signaled a personal vendetta, likely tied to the humiliation she had suffered during the recent garden party.
Jiang Huaiyu narrowed her eyes. Li Sumeng was clearly flaunting her newfound favor with the Crown Prince, using this banquet as a pretext for a confrontation.
A wry smile tugged at Jiang Huaiyu's lips. "So, it's a banquet… or perhaps a trap. Let's see who ends up being caught."