Sana's eyes widened in shock at what she had just heard. Nico continued in a lower voice, almost like a whispered secret.
"Of course, as the only bank in Soltera, we will facilitate the currency exchange. And you can guess, we will set the exchange rate so that our new currency is equal to Siferia and Riveria's currencies. That way, Siferia and Riveria's money will flood into Kashgar , creating a new stability under our control."
Nico smiled again, this time with a confident air. "This is a small strategy from the Emperor. What I just explained might not be too detailed, and there may be minor inaccuracies, but this is the general outline of the plan. I learned it from our economic expert, jully ."
He looked at Sana with a firm gaze. "So, our goal here is not merely to profit from loans and savings, but to create, strengthen, and distribute our currency. That is the Emperor's true objective."
The people here, with few exceptions, just want to live a peaceful life. "But," Nico continued in a calm yet convincing tone, "before granting loans, we must analyze their business potential. Looking at profits, sales, and risks. If the opportunities are good enough, risks can be minimized. After all, is there any business truly without risk? Even becoming an empress to an emperor carries its own risks."
A teasing smile appeared on his face, making Sana momentarily speechless. Her face turned crimson, and words seemed to freeze at the tip of her tongue.
Nico chuckled softly, enjoying her reaction. "Come on," he said lightly, "let's go home." He gestured for Sana to follow him back to the new building they had purchased earlier that morning.
When Nico arrived home, the atmosphere shifted instantly. His five attendants had gathered in the main hall, awaiting further instructions. As usual, Diandra swiftly prepared tea. The soothing aroma of fresh tea leaves filled the room, adding a perfect touch of tranquility for their discussion. Nico took his seat at the end of the large table, his gaze full of authority.
"Before we begin," he said, his voice calm yet commanding, "I want to convey something very important." He glanced at each face before him. "From now on, call me Mr. Tang. Sana is Mrs. Tang. Whether in public or in private, you must fully embrace these roles. There will be no more Nico or Sana. Only Mr. Tang, Mrs. Tang, and " he turned to Malik, "Young Master Tang. Do you understand, Malik?"
Malik looked surprised but quickly nodded respectfully. "I understand, Mr. Tang."
"Good," Nico continued firmly. "I don't want to hear any excuses. Just do your job well. There will be many important roles you must play."
Everyone nodded, their expressions reflecting a deep understanding of the importance of this disguise.
"Alright," Nico's tone shifted, now more relaxed but still firm. "Let's discuss your reports. Malik, you first."
Malik stood, his body slightly bowing as a sign of respect. "Thank you, Mr. Tang. Today, I spent time near the city government center. This city is truly fragile. The existing regulations do not govern the people fairly. Taxes and tariffs are set arbitrarily without oversight. Worse, the city officials are colluding with local gang groups to maintain their power. This collusion is clearly damaging the city's structure."
Nico nodded, his eyes reflecting deep thought. "As I expected, nothing has changed since the last time I observed them. Next, jully ."
jully took a brief breath before reporting her findings. "Thank you, Mr. Tang. Today, I scouted every corner of the city. This city's defenses are practically meaningless. Their fortifications are weak and neglected. I also managed to identify several gangs controlling the city from the shadows. They have likely already noticed our presence and could act against us."
Nico smirked slightly, his eyes showing admiration. "You're an economic expert, but you can conduct reconnaissance like this? You truly are full of surprises, jully ."
He then turned his gaze to the three female attendants sitting on the side of the room. "What about you all?"
One of them stepped forward, representing the group. "Thank you, Master Tang. We've encountered many people who have run out of money and seem desperate. They appear lost, with no jobs available, and wealth is only circulating among the powerful. Most of them now beg on the streets, relying on charity. If we offer them assistance, there's a high chance they will become our loyal supporters."
Nico nodded slowly, his sharp eyes contemplating something. "A good point. We will consider the best way to approach them."
He looked at each servant one by one, appearing satisfied with the report presented. "Thank you for the information. Tomorrow, we will open this building to the public. Sana will arrange the administrative details and workflow. I'll head up to my room now. There are some matters I need to take care of."
Without waiting for a response, Nico stood up and walked towards the stairs, leaving the room with the composure of a leader who knew exactly what needed to be done.
As Nico stepped into his room, his steps were steady but filled with the weight of thoughts. Below, his servants continued their discussion, enthusiastically preparing for the opening. But here, in his private space, silence seemed to be Nico's ally a place where he could think clearly without interruption.
Before he could sit comfortably, a knock came at the door. It was not an ordinary knock, but a distinct rhythm known only to the envoys of the Kashgar Empire. Nico raised an eyebrow, his posture immediately upright. "Enter," he commanded, his voice firm but controlled.
It was not the door that opened, but the window in the corner of the room. An envoy slipped inside swiftly, his silhouette barely visible in the dim evening light. He knelt before Nico, presenting a scroll tied with the distinctive ribbon of the Empire.
"Master Tang, this is a letter from the Emperor for you," he said, his voice low yet filled with respect.
Nico took the scroll and slowly unrolled it. Inside, the words radiated authority and hope: