Heartache and Serena Feng’s Supporters
“Make the grain merchants cough up their reserves? Would they ever agree? Merchants across all kingdoms have serious backing—their families are all aristocrats. You can't just strong-arm them; not even the Emperor could snatch grain from those merchants.” Nolan Dongling had already considered targeting the grain merchants, but it was nearly impossible.
For minor matters, they could pressure the aristocrats a little, but when it came to family interests, those clans would never budge. Aristocrats are stubborn—they value their family’s interests more than their own lives.
“Who said anything about snatching? You can make them hand it over willingly.” Serena Feng’s eyes gleamed with mischief, startling Vincent Su—he had a bad feeling someone was about to get unlucky.
Before Vincent could ask, Serena gestured for him to lower his head. She leaned in and whispered her plan in his ear…
Vincent was confused at first, then his eyes lit up. “That’s a good idea—I think it could work. The risk is a bit high, but it’s within what we can handle.”
“If it’s workable, then let’s do it. We can’t just let the soldiers go hungry.” Deep down, Serena always saw herself as a soldier too.
“Alright, I’ll go back and plan it out carefully, then get started. As payment, I’ll take care of rebuilding Feng Manor for you—won’t cost you a single copper. I’ll handle everything.” Vincent Su thumped his chest, boldly promising.
“You want to rebuild Feng Manor for me?” Serena was puzzled—when had this sly merchant ever been so generous?
“Yes, as thanks for your help. You’ve done me a huge favor.” Vincent grinned like a fox—ha! Without lifting a finger, he’d gotten the Feng Manor reconstruction in hand, and Serena hadn’t suspected a thing.
“You’ve solved my grain problem, and if your plan works, I’ll make a tidy profit too. Rebuilding Feng Manor is pocket change—I can afford it. What, you don’t want it? If not, just name anything else I can help with—I promise I’ll do it.” Advancing by retreating—classic negotiation tactics. Vincent Su was a master, and Serena had no idea what this fox was really after.