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Shao Yunduan smiled. “Darling, do you want to collaborate with him?”

Qiao Xuan pondered for a moment and replied with a smile. “We need money! The Crown Prince doesn’t have much money, right? But he requires resources like the other princes!”

Qiao Xuan had nothing to worry about as long as they were on the same side.

Shao Yunduan nodded in agreement. “True.”

Everyone’s attention was fixed on the Crown Prince, aware that he wouldn’t easily gain any financial support.

If they did provide him with financial aid, it might lead to competition among the people for profits, and ultimately lead to impeachment.

More importantly, they couldn’t decipher their true intentions.

What was the purpose of amassing such wealth? To win over people’s loyalty? But what was the true value of buying people’s loyalty?

There was no way to offer a clear explanation.

Even if an explanation were given, the Emperor would likely be uneasy about it.

If this happened too frequently, it might alter the dynamics significantly.

They had to remain untouched and avoid any entanglements.

However, most of the ministers surrounding the Crown Prince were scholars, unsuited for business ventures or any other practical matters.

Shao Yunduan was unique in his approach. Despite being a scholar, he was still young, and people didn’t have a strong impression of him yet. Therefore, he was not easily disheartened.

Unlike other elderly scholars, if they were involved, it would disappoint the common folks and low-ranking officials. However, with Qiao Xuan, Shao Yunduan’s wife, in the mix, things would be different. Her involvement changed the dynamics.

Shao Yunduan never intended to be a pure Confucianist, and fortunately, his wife shared the same view.

“The Crown Prince cannot be directly associated with these matters, but if we take action, he will undoubtedly defend us. But I must apologize, my love…”

Qiao Xuan smiled reassuringly. “We are in this together, and it’s good that you acknowledge your contributions. If he ever succeeds, I would like to experience what it’s like to be the wife of a high-ranking official!”

Shao Yunduan felt a sense of relief and responded with a smile. “If he truly uses our resources, I will certainly grant you the title of a first-class wife!”

“That is good!”

They exchanged smiles, fully aware that obtaining a first-class title was no easy feat. It held the highest honor a courtier could achieve, and Qiao Xuan believed it would be worth spending more money to attain such an exceptional status.

This honor couldn’t be simply bought with money; it held a significance beyond material wealth.

In any case, Qiao Xuan had nothing to lose. She possessed ingenuity and skills, while her collaborators could handle the practical aspects.

Although they were not yet official collaborators, they were confident they could find the right person for the job.

As they discussed the investigation of Zhao Shu, the excitement in Zhao Shu’s heart was palpable. Upon returning home, he instructed his trusted housekeeper, Uncle Qing, to prepare a substantial New Year present.

Previously, he hesitated to offer gifts, unsure of their relationship. However, now that they were friends, he felt at ease, even if the collaboration didn’t pan out. He still wanted to show his kindness with presents.

“Make sure the gifts are ready within a couple of days and deliver them to Officer Shao’s residence. Include as many valuable items as possible. Money is of utmost importance to me right now!”

Uncle Qing was delighted to hear about Zhao Shu’s connection with Officer Shao. He nodded with a beaming smile, happy for his master’s newfound friendship.

Feeling a sense of urgency, Zhao Shu wasted no time and personally made all the necessary preparations.

However, Uncle Qing felt it necessary to offer a gentle reminder. “Young Master, Madame Shao has not committed to anything yet, and there’s a chance they may not accept such extravagant gifts. How about considering a simple token of appreciation instead? You can always make up for it in the future.”