Chapter 1317: They Treated Us As Their Own

Editor: Henyee Translations

“But let’s keep this under wraps for now. We’ll discuss it when the time is right,” Qiao Xuan advised.

Zhao Shu, still in a daze, readily agreed.

However, Uncle Qing soon recognized the significance of this matter, one that pertained to the welfare of the people, and he understood the importance of keeping it confidential. Lord Shao and Madame Shao were implicitly expressing their trust in their master and servant.

After dinner, they departed from the Shao Family’s residence. Uncle Qing knew that his Young Master didn’t fully grasp the intricacies of the situation, so he proceeded to explain everything in detail. Only then did Zhao Shu fully comprehend the situation.

He couldn’t help but express his admiration. “If we succeed, Lord Shao and Madame Shao will make substantial contributions!”

Uncle Qing smiled. “Indeed, but this is a significant matter, and they may choose not to take credit for it. In my estimation, the recognition will likely go to the East Palace, which is why Madame Shao advised us not to disclose this to anyone.”

Zhao Shu nodded, understanding the situation.

Lord Shao and Madame Shao were not individuals who sought recognition or were foolish enough to claim credit for themselves.

However, if they chose to relinquish that recognition, it was evident that it would be attributed to the Crown Prince.

Only the Crown Prince could shoulder such responsibilities.

“But if that’s the case, why are you telling us now?” Zhao Shu questioned, puzzled. Uncle Qing looked at him with a sigh of disbelief.

Fortunately, Zhao Shu wasn’t obtuse. He exclaimed joyfully, “Uncle Qing, does this mean that Lord Shao and Madame Shao are treating us like family?”

Uncle Qing smiled and nodded.

“That’s wonderful!” Zhao Shu couldn’t contain his excitement, rubbing his hands together in sheer delight.

Uncle Qing smiled and shook his head, offering a gentle reminder, “Young Master, even though that’s true, there are still some matters that must be approached with caution.”

Zhao Shu smiled somewhat sheepishly and nodded, saying, “Don’t worry, Uncle Qing. I understand…”

Evidently, Zhao Shu was quite content to enjoy the spectacle unfolding within the Zhao Family, so he didn’t linger in the capital for long. He shared two meals with Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan, stayed for five days, and then departed for the south with high spirits.

In addition to his interest in witnessing the ongoing drama, the perfume workshop was also at a crucial stage, which required his vigilant oversight.

With just over 50 bottles, it amounted to more than 50,000 taels of silver, effectively covering the entire workshop’s investment costs.

The next batch was expected to yield at least a hundred bottles, recovering all the initial expenditures and turning a profit. The business arrangement offered a generous 40-60 split, a mutually rewarding venture that Zhao Shu found quite enticing.

Indeed, such a business was truly captivating!

Qiao Xuan had initially planned to travel to the South to inspect the progress of her 20,000 mu of fertile land and visit the flower fields in Hangzhou, ensuring the plants could withstand the winter and thrive. She also intended to make a stop at the 100,000 mu mulberry garden along the way.

However, half a month later, Prince Nuo Nuo would lead a delegation to meet the Emperor of Great Qin. The Crown Prince and the Third Prince were tasked with hosting him, and Shao Yunduan, as the Crown Prince’s trusted confidant, had to stand by the Crown Prince’s side to assist.

Shao Yunduan had planned to discreetly request the Crown Prince’s permission to accompany Qiao Xuan on her journey south, but he had to abandon the idea.

Qiao Xuan wasn’t afraid of rumors, but she had earned a reputation as a possessive woman, making it inappropriate for her to venture south alone while leaving Shao Yunduan behind.