In the living room, they gathered around the table, enjoying warm tea. Nico, now refreshed, looked at Sana with a teasing smile. "You seemed so anxious earlier, even crying while hugging me. You were really worried about me, weren't you?"
Sana pouted, her cheeks flushing. "I was just acting, you know!" she replied, trying to deny it, though her eyes avoided his.
"But your acting was too convincing," Nico retorted with a small laugh.
"Don't push it," Sana pinched Nico's side, making him wince slightly. "Alright, alright. You were just acting," Nico relented, though his mischievous smile lingered.
Their conversation flowed effortlessly into the night. Sana, still blushing, eventually kept her head down as she sipped her tea, while the others smiled at the camaraderie on display.
A week later, the morning sun streamed through the windows of the Tang family's dining room, illuminating the large wooden table where they gathered. Nico leaned back in his chair, looking at Sana with an expectant gaze. "Alright, what are the results for this week?" he asked, sipping his warm tea.
Sana beamed with pride. "Outstanding, Mr. Tang. In one week, we've distributed three million coins through a 40:60 profit-sharing scheme with our clients," she reported.
Nico nodded slightly, satisfaction evident on his face. "Good. This is a promising result," he said briefly.
Sana continued, "For the pawnshop, we've also distributed one million coins. All items have been securely stored in the warehouse."
Nico emphasized, "Any items not redeemed by their due date should be sent directly to the empire."
"Understood. Everything is prepared," Sana replied with a firm nod.
Their conversation carried on casually, but behind Nico's calm demeanor, his mind was constantly at work. He knew that while the numbers were encouraging, the journey ahead remained long and fraught with challenges.
Months had passed since Nico launched his business. In a short amount of time, his efforts began to show promising results. With well-thought-out strategies and meticulous planning, he managed to overcome various challenges without major setbacks. Yet, behind his success, Nico's mind was always searching for new opportunities. He knew that great opportunities often came with equally significant risks.
That morning, the atmosphere in the Tang family's meeting room buzzed with energy. Sunlight slowly crept through the window slats, reflecting off the large wooden table cluttered with maps and documents. Nico stood tall, determination etched on his face.
"I'm going to borrow ten million coins," he declared firmly, his voice echoing in the room. All eyes were on him. "I plan to open a food store—or more precisely, the largest food market in Soltera. We will use this loan scheme for several primary purposes."
He paused, scanning the room to ensure everyone grasped his intention. "First, this will serve as our way to gain a deeper understanding of the lending and pawn business by directly addressing challenges in the field. Second, this store will act as a distribution channel for agricultural products from Kahsgar at affordable prices. We'll dominate the market while helping those oppressed and struggling in this uncertain world. This place will become the 'Grand Food Supply Center of Soltera.'"
Sana, seated in the corner with a notebook on her lap, nodded slowly, jotting down every detail of Nico's words.
Nico continued, his tone softer yet still commanding. "Malik, you will lead the Tang family's pawn and lending business. I will inform everyone that I'm entrusting its management to Ming Tang, my son. He will grow to be the most sought-after man in Soltera—a leader who captivates with his demeanor, charm, and wealth."
Ming Tang, seated across the table, gave a faint smile at his father's words. Yet, he knew that behind the praise lay a great responsibility.
With fiery enthusiasm, Nico pressed on, "We move not just for personal gain but for the empire. This is our duty! So, let's get started."
The room filled with nods of agreement. Nico's energy spread, igniting a fervor in everyone around him. In an instant, they began their respective preparations, like the gears of a great machine starting to turn.
After the meeting, Nico and Sana took their first steps. They walked through the streets of Soltera, weaving through crowds of merchants and bustling shoppers. Nico's eyes scanned for strategic locations on the city outskirts, where people gathered to trade or share stories.
During their walk, Nico stopped and turned to Sana. "From now on, we'll manage this venture together as husband and wife," he said, his voice firm. "They will oversee the Tang family's pawn and lending house. You know what this means, right?"
Sana nodded resolutely. "I understand," she replied briefly, her gaze reflecting her determination.
They continued their journey, their steps aligned with the immense resolve they carried. In every corner of the city they passed, the shadow of Nico's grand plan began to shape a promising future. The world might be full of uncertainties, but they moved with unshakable confidence that this venture would bring significant change to Soltera—and perhaps, to the empire itself.
The evening sky over Soltera's outskirts glowed golden-orange, casting a soft light along the cobbled streets. Nico and Sana walked side by side, their steps steady despite the area's discomfort. According to Malik's information, this area was near the base of the Black Tiger, a notorious gang known for their brutality. Jones, the gang's leader, often had his men lurking around. Nico knew the risks but had carefully considered opening Soltera's largest food market here.
"For now, we'll stay here," Nico said, pointing to a small inn that appeared modest but clean.
Before they could approach the door, a group of men emerged from a narrow alley. Their strides widened, suggesting ill intentions. Sana edged closer to Nico, her hand instinctively reaching for the knife hidden beneath her clothing. However, Nico touched her arm, signaling her to hold back.
"Excuse us, gentlemen. How can we help you?" Nico asked, his voice calm yet firm.
The men exchanged glances before laughing, their tone mocking. One of them, seemingly the leader, stepped forward, eyeing Sana with interest.
"Hahaha, who's this pretty lady? Your sister? In that case, allow us to introduce ourselves. In this city, good manners are highly valued, and if she's your sister, you shouldn't deny us the chance to meet her," he said slyly.