Malik let out a long sigh, his eyes still fixed on the door now shut tight. He sat back down, trying to make sense of the strange feelings lingering in his mind.
Nico, observing from the corner of the room, smirked slightly. "This isn't over, Ming Tang. That woman carries more secrets than she's letting on."
Not long after the woman left, the atmosphere shifted. Sana arrived with three other women, pushing a small cart loaded with supplies. Bundles of wood, upholstery fabric, and various tools were carefully unloaded.
"Alright, let's start decorating!" Sana exclaimed with contagious enthusiasm. Her commanding energy quickly spread to everyone around her.
As night fell, everyone sat on the floor around a simple wooden table. They enjoyed a modest yet warm meal, reflecting on their hard work. The walls were now adorned with sturdy wooden shelves, the tables were ready to welcome guests, and the atmosphere of the building had completely transformed—from an empty shell into a place full of life.
"We did it," Malik said with a satisfied smile. "But this is just the beginning."
Sana nodded. "Today, we built the foundation. Tomorrow, we build the future."
Outside, the night breeze blew gently, carrying the fresh scent of new wood. The building was no longer just a structure; it had become a symbol of the Tang family's determination and hope.
After finishing the decorations, everyone finally sat back against the newly installed wooden wall. Their breaths were heavy, their hands covered in dust, but satisfied smiles adorned their faces. The room had transformed from an empty building into a small headquarters full of spirit.
"This bank will become a symbol of trust," Nico said as he looked around the nearly finished room. The tables were neatly arranged, every corner was clean, and a small sign reading "Tang Family Bank" had just been placed at the entrance. "Not just a place to store money, but also a place where people can build their hopes."
"Great job, everyone," said Nico, patting Sana on the shoulder, who responded with a tired smile. But before they could fully enjoy the fruits of their labor, the sound of a horse-drawn carriage approaching from outside broke the moment.
A young man hurriedly got off the carriage, carrying a small metal plate, and handed it to Nico without a word. Nico's face turned serious. He examined the plate briefly, then stood up.
"I have to go," he said curtly.
Outside, an elegantly dressed man was already waiting inside the carriage. His face was calm, but his eyes were sharp, like someone used to being in control.
"Thank you for taking the time, Mr. Tang," the man began the conversation as soon as Nico climbed in. "My name is Yu Fei, a direct envoy from the Emperor."
The carriage started moving slowly, its wheels creaking softly against the cobblestone street. Inside, the conversation unfolded with careful deliberation.
"We'll talk here," Yu Fei said, glancing out the small window. "The carriage will circle the city. A safe place from prying ears."
Nico nodded in understanding, quietly admiring how well-organized the plan was.
Yu Fei handed Nico a letter. "This is a message from the Emperor."
Nico read it slowly. His face remained expressionless until he finished reading. Then, he nodded. "So, the Frenchman's tavern has been purchased and is now our main headquarters?"
"Correct," Yu Fei replied. "The previous owner, Louis, decided to leave for Siberia. He feels safer there among the Western European community. The Emperor instructed me to acquire the place, and now it is officially our base in Soltera."
Nico nodded, his mind already weaving strategies. The rhythmic sound of horse hooves provided a backdrop to their discussion.
"In addition," Yu Fei continued, "we have prepared a fund of 50 million coins for your efforts."
Nico was stunned, almost speechless. "Fifty million?" he muttered under his breath, trying to contain his shock.
Yu Fei smiled thinly. "It's natural to be surprised. Bringing that much money into this city wasn't an easy task. We smuggled it in under the cover of darkness, and it took days to ensure everything arrived safely."
A moment of silence fell. Only the sound of horse hooves and the soft creaking of wheels filled the air.
"The Emperor has great faith in you, Nico," Yu Fei said, his tone more serious. "He said that in your previous life, you were a successful entrepreneur and a business expert. That's why he is providing this capital to conquer Soltera."
Those words made Nico lower his head. He clenched his fists tightly, tears welling up in the corners of his eyes. "In my previous life... I was nothing but a failure," he whispered. "But the Emperor still gives me this chance, even entrusting the fate of so many people to me."
His heart burned with determination. He lifted his head, his eyes shining with resolve. "I will not disappoint the Emperor."
Yu Fei nodded slowly. "And you must not fail. Half of our forces are stationed in Soltera. This mission is of utmost importance."
"Understood, Yu Fei," Nico replied firmly. "I will ensure everything goes according to plan."
The carriage made its rounds around the city before returning to the market where Nico got off. He walked home slowly, his mind brimming with grand plans.
Upon arriving at the headquarters, Niko immediately took a rest. The next day, he gathered his team without delay. Everyone assembled in the main room, their faces tense yet brimming with anticipation.
"Alright," Nico began, breaking the silence. "We now have an initial capital of 50 million coins from the Empire. This is not just money. It is trust and a huge responsibility that we carry together."
He handed out sheets of paper to everyone in the room. "Here is our initial plan. We will establish a lending and pawn business that will form the economic foundation of Soltera."
Nico turned to Sana. "How did things go with the city hall yesterday? Did everything go smoothly?"
Sana nodded and handed over an official document with the government's seal. "The permits have been granted. We are officially in business."
"Thank goodness," Nico looked relieved. "Tomorrow, we start operations."
However, Sana hesitated before speaking. "There's one more thing. Some people from the palace will be coming to inspect us directly. We need to be prepared with the right answers if they ask questions."