Today marks the sixtieth birthday of Qin Fangeng.
Qin Fenghua wore a lake blue embroidered crane long dress, with a jade hairpin adorning her hair. Her bright eyes sparkled with intelligence and wit.
She lifted a warm white porcelain tea cup and scanned the hall.
"Father," she called softly.
Qin Fangeng smiled, "Fenghua, come here."
She stepped forward gracefully, her delicate fingers gently brushing over the strings of the guqin. The clear and melodious sound instantly filled the entire hall.
The music flowed like water, sometimes crisp and melodious, sometimes deep and distant. With a light pluck of her fingers, a piece titled "Plum Blossom Melody" flowed forth like a gentle stream.
"Wonderful!" Applause erupted in the hall.
A glimmer of satisfaction flashed in Qin Fangeng's eyes. "My Fenghua, your skills on the guqin have indeed improved."
"You flatter me, Father." A slight smile appeared on Qin Fenghua's lips. "I have merely gained some understanding."
"Miss Qin, may I ask for your guidance?" A young merchant in a brocade robe approached, seeking to collaborate with Qin Manor to develop trade routes in the Western Regions.
Qin Fenghua's eyes sparkled as she gently set down the guqin. "If Young Master Zhang is interested, please elaborate."
Qin Fenghua gently set down the guqin, a glint of shrewdness flashing in her eyes.
She thought to herself: This Zhang Gongzi appears simple, but in reality, he is meticulous and should not be underestimated.
"Indeed, the trade routes in the Western Regions are perilous, but opportunities coexist with risks," Qin Fenghua smiled and asked, "What aspect interests you the most, Zhang Gongzi?"
Zhang Gongzi pondered for a moment. "I have heard that the Western Regions are rich in gemstones and spices. If we can open up this route, we could make a fortune."
A hint of approval flickered in Qin Fenghua's eyes. "You truly have an eye for opportunity, Zhang Gongzi. However, there are many tribes in the Western Regions, with different languages and customs. Without someone to guide you, it would be difficult to make any progress."
"Miss Qin is absolutely right," Zhang Gongzi nodded.
"May I ask if Qin Manor has any good strategies?"
Qin Fenghua took a delicate sip of tea and replied slowly, "My Qin Manor has operated in the Western Regions for many years and has established connections with many local tribes. If you trust me, we could collaborate. A three-to-seven split, with my manor taking seventy percent."
Upon hearing this, Zhang Gongzi showed a hint of hesitation. "Isn't that a bit...?"
Qin Fenghua remained composed, though she had already formed a calculation in her mind: This man has ambition but lacks decisiveness; he can be easily manipulated.
"If you find it unacceptable, feel free to seek others," she said calmly. "However, I can guarantee that in the entire capital, only my Qin Manor can ensure the safety of caravans traveling to and from the Western Regions."
Zhang Gongzi fell silent for a moment before cupping his fists and saying, “Miss Qin, you are indeed straightforward. I agree with what you said.”
Qin Fenghua broke into a smile, “I look forward to a pleasant cooperation.”
As the negotiations concluded, Qin Fenghua turned to leave, feeling secretly pleased: another deal secured, and the situation in the Western Regions was becoming increasingly interesting.
Just as Qin Fenghua was basking in the joy of her victory, hurried footsteps approached.
“Miss…” her maid, Xiao Cui, rushed over, her face pale.
Qin Fenghua frowned. “What is it that has you so flustered?”
Xiao Cui lowered her voice. “I just received urgent news; someone in the court is accusing Master!”
A jolt ran through Qin Fenghua’s heart, but she maintained her composure. “I understand. You may go now.”
Once Xiao Cui had left, Qin Fenghua stood alone in the courtyard, the moonlight casting a gentle glow on her delicate features, revealing a hint of seriousness.
She pondered silently: Her father had always been cautious; how could he suddenly be accused? There must be more to this story.
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