The old man stopped in the middle of the large hall and looked at Nico. "So, what do you think, sir? Do you like it?"
Nico gave a faint smile, one that was hard to read. "It's quite intriguing. But this building is far from being in decent condition. At a price of 20,000 coins, it's too expensive considering I'll have to spend a lot on renovations. What do you think a fair price would be?"
The old man chuckled softly, rubbing his chin. "You're right, sir. How about 18,000 coins?"
Nico studied the man with a sharp gaze, as if weighing every word he had just spoken. Then, in a calm voice, he made his final offer. "15,000 coins. That's a fair price given the condition. If not, I'll leave and hope someone else buys this old building someday."
The old man fell silent for a moment, visibly wrestling with his thoughts. Finally, he nodded slowly. "Alright, Mr. Tang. I suppose this building was destined for you."
The deal was struck. The old man promised the documents would be ready by the next morning, and Nico left the place with a satisfied expression.
The next day, the building was officially under the ownership of the Kashgar Empire. Workers began to arrive, bringing tools and materials for renovations. Sana efficiently managed the shopping for supplies at the market—from wooden shelves to storage equipment for agricultural products. Behind the seemingly ordinary renovation, Nico led the construction of a special underground room. Not just for storing fermented drinks, the secret chamber was designed as a coordination hub for the empire, a place where grand strategies would be devised.
By the following morning, news about the Tang family's food shop spread rapidly. People flocked to the shop, amazed at the prices—only one coin for all kinds of foodstuffs, from vegetables and fruits to grains. The shop quickly became the center of attention, leaving competitors far behind.
In the palace, King Bernault received a report about it. "The Tang family's new business? Why am I only hearing about this now?" he asked lazily, leaning back on his throne. Sani, the economic affairs overseer in Soltera, quickly responded, "Your Majesty, this is their second branch. They're solely focused on business and have no political agenda."
The King chuckled. "He's like me, apparently… only interested in money." He glanced at Sani, raising an eyebrow. "Does he also like women?"
Sani bowed respectfully. "According to reports, his wife is very beautiful, and Mr. Tang seems skilled at caring for her."
Bernault grinned broadly. "Summon him to the palace. I want to meet him."
At the Tang family's new residence, Sana was dressing up in front of a large mirror with a golden frame reflecting the morning light. Her fingers deftly applied red lipstick, making her lips look full and striking. Behind her, Nico lounged casually in a chair, watching her with curious eyes.
"Are you admiring me, Sana?" he asked teasingly, his smile hinting at a touch of mischief.
Sana paused briefly, her eyes meeting Nico's reflection in the mirror. "Didn't I tell you? The King wants to meet us. I hope you'll act like a good wife today," Nico continued, his tone turning serious. "I've also received some information. King Bernault and his concubines are quite… wild. I hope you can adapt, perhaps act a little daring, at least in front of me as your husband."
Sana took a deep breath and slowly turned to face Nico. Her expression remained calm, but there was a sharp glint in her eyes. "Aren't you exploiting this situation for your own benefit?" she asked flatly.
"Why shouldn't I?" Nico replied casually, his smile widening before he let out a small laugh. "You're too tense. Just do what you can."
Sana gave a faint smile, but inwardly she scoffed. "This foolish man underestimates me. He has no idea about my past, how wild I was in my youth." She grabbed a strong-scented perfume and sprayed it on her neck and wrists. Then she thickened her red lipstick and, without hesitation, tore a small part of her dress's hem, revealing her smooth thighs.
Nico was taken aback. "Hey, what are you doing? There's no need to go this far. You're making me feel guilty," he said awkwardly.
Sana approached him confidently, taking his hand and holding it gently. "Come, my husband. The King is waiting," she said in a seductive tone.
Throughout the journey to the palace, Nico remained silent, trying to process this new side of his wife that had been hidden until now.
Upon arriving at the palace, they were greeted by guards who bowed respectfully. "Mr. Tang, please follow me," said one of the attendants.
The central hall of the palace was filled with an array of delectable dishes. King Bernault sat on his throne, accompanied by his wives adorned with lavish jewelry. As Nico and Sana entered, King Bernault stood with a broad smile.
"Mr. Tang, welcome," he said warmly.
"It is a great honor to be invited to your palace," Nico replied respectfully.
"Please, have a seat," King Bernault gestured to their place. "I've prepared many dishes. I hope you enjoy them all."
"You are very generous, Your Majesty. We will certainly enjoy everything you've provided," Nico responded with a slight smile.
King Bernault laughed heartily. "Hahaha, I knew I wasn't wrong about you. Your wife is stunning. As men, we must cherish and spoil our women, right?"
Nico nodded slightly. "Thank you for the compliment, Your Majesty. As a token of respect, I've brought a gift for you."
An attendant brought a large box filled with stacks of gold coins. "Here, 50,000 gold coins as a special gift for the King," Nico said.
King Bernault's eyes widened, and then he laughed again. "Hahaha, you are too generous. I am grateful."
Nico smiled wisely. "I believe in the principle of mutual kindness. I've also heard that Soltera is facing financial difficulties due to conflicts with Siferi and Riveria."
King Bernault nodded, his smile fading. "You are correct. There are troops from the south building fortresses. We plan to send 5,000 soldiers there."
Nico kept smiling, but his mind was racing. "Finally, I can get direct information from the inner circle of the palace," he thought.