diskusbooks Chapter 118: Free Dinner in the Palace
Chapter 118: Free Dinner in the Palace
The next morning, Ziwei was summoned by the queen.
Because she left home early, when she arrived at the palace, the queen had not yet started breakfast, so Ziwei had the opportunity to have breakfast with her.
Yet, even though Ziwei sat at the table, her mind was far from the exquisite food before her. Her chopsticks absentmindedly toyed with the delicacy in her bowl, her gaze wandering as she wondered, "When will the rubber finally arrive?" And then there's the crucial cement. If it could be successfully developed, she planned to first replace all the roads in the capital with smooth, solid cement, then gradually expand to the surrounding areas.
As Ziwei was lost in thought, the Empress noticed her absent-mindedness. Mistakenly believing she was worried about Fukang'an's departure, she quickly offered reassurance, "Ziwei, Fukang'an is a martial arts master, and now, like you, he possesses unique skills. Even if a battle were to occur, I believe he would be able to ensure his safety. He has rarely been injured on the battlefield, and this time will surely be even more so."
Ziwei came back to her senses at the sound. Hearing the Queen's concerned words, she couldn't help but smile slightly and replied softly, "My Queen Mother, you worry too much! I'm not worried about Fu Kang'an. It's just that my thoughts have wandered to other matters. I'm truly sorry to have caused you so much worry."
The Queen shook her head gently and said softly, "You silly child, you are my daughter. It is only natural for me to care about you and think about you."
"I heard your milk tea business is booming, making a killing! It's truly enviable! A few days ago, several ladies of noble birth came to the palace to pay their respects to me, and they specifically mentioned this matter. They stared at me eagerly, their faces beaming with smiles, their words hinting at asking if they could get a share of your shop. Humph, these profit-seeking people, I naturally declined each one without hesitation! The profits from such a small shop are ultimately limited. Giving them a share would be disgraceful."
When Ziwei heard this, her beautiful eyes suddenly lit up, and she wondered in her heart, who would be the most appropriate person to cooperate with?
After much deliberation, she felt that it would be best to let the Ministry of Internal Affairs take over directly. This way, it would be like setting up a state-owned enterprise. Under this operation, all profits could naturally be put into the national treasury.
When Yongzheng passed away, he left behind a brimming treasury. It was a shame that the prodigal Emperor Qianlong squandered it all, truly betraying the hard-earned wealth his father had accumulated with his life and dedication.
If all future profits could be channeled into the national treasury and used as funds for the development and construction of our great Qing Dynasty, I believe no one would find fault with it. Furthermore, having the Imperial Household Department in charge would not only be more convenient and efficient, but would also facilitate subsequent overall planning, management, and supervision!
It’s a pity that she has not studied business administration. She is good at studying technology, but she is really not good at management.
However, if these matters were to be handled by the Imperial Household Department, the current department would be absolutely incapable of doing so. The current department was almost entirely controlled by those few bondservants. She would never be so foolish as to offer money and encourage their arrogance.
"Empress Mother, I wonder when the Emperor will be able to leave court? I have something important to discuss with him and the Emperor's uncle." Ziwei blinked her bright big eyes and looked at the Queen expectantly.
The Empress stared at her suspiciously, wondering to herself what this little girl was up to. But she smiled and replied, "The court should be almost over! Mother, please have someone wait outside the Qianqing Palace. Once the Emperor has left court, please invite her here immediately. Is that alright?"
"You are so kind, Empress Dowager!" Ziwei was overjoyed to hear the Queen's thoughtful arrangement, and a smile as bright as a spring flower bloomed on her face.
Then, she contentedly began to enjoy the delicious food in front of her. She gently scooped up a spoonful of the fragrant hot porridge, put it into her mouth and chewed it carefully, then revealed a satisfied expression and praised, "Wow, this porridge is so fragrant today, it tastes amazing!"
Seeing this, the queen beside her couldn't help but shook her head helplessly, but the corners of her mouth unconsciously rose, revealing a doting smile.
An hour later, Emperor Qianlong and Prince Hongzhou finally arrived.
They both looked a little tired, but their steps were still steady and powerful. They had just finished the morning court and rushed over without stopping.
Seeing this, the Queen quickly ordered the maids to quickly prepare some food for the Emperor and the Prince. Soon, exquisite meals, cakes, and steaming hot tea were served before the Emperor.
"Ziwei, I heard that you are in a hurry to find me. What's the matter? Is it because of that kid Fukang'an? Haha, don't worry, all the preparations have been properly arranged, and he will definitely not be harmed at all. It's just a tiny country, how can it be as difficult as the battle with the Junggar tribe back then!" Qianlong said with a smile and nonchalantly.
Ziwei was helpless and muttered to herself: Why does everyone think that I only care about Fukang'an?
She shook her head slightly and said sternly, "Father, I have come here to discuss something important with you, but it has nothing to do with Fukang'an. You and your uncle should have something to eat first. After you finish your meal, I will report to you in detail."
This palace was truly the most luxurious place in the world. The kitchen was always stocked with a variety of delicious dishes, just in case any of the masters suddenly craved a meal. Especially those exquisite and delicious snacks, which were always on hand for emergencies.
Seeing Ziwei's serious expression, Qianlong and Hongzhou looked at each other, knowing that this matter was probably no trivial matter. They immediately put away their joking intentions and began to concentrate on enjoying the food in front of them.
In order to prevent Ziwei from waiting too long, they ate quickly. In just a cup of tea, they were sent away.
When the four of them were the only ones left in the room, Qianlong finally spoke, "Ziwei, what do you want to talk about? I heard you asked the Ministry of Works to make some cement. Could it be related to this?"