Chapter 2304: Prohibition
Although she had a passion for farming, Qiao Xuan was not inclined to acquire land through coercion or deceit.
These wealthy families had offered her land out of fear that she might seize it forcefully, attempting to curry favor with her.
But was she that sort of person? Absolutely not!
Instead, Qiao Xuan directed more of her attention toward Hangzhou Bay.
Despite the explicit prohibition on sea transportation by the Great Qin Imperial Court, issued decades ago and never rescinded, the flourishing sea trade had evaded suppression or enforcement.
Step by step, people tested the waters, especially over the past decade when overseas trade boomed. Annually, fleets formed by affluent families ventured out to sea.
While sea trade promised substantial profits, it also entailed significant risks and lengthy voyages. Without explicit support from the Imperial Court, civilians operated cautiously, mindful of potential repercussions.
Any well-established family clan knew the maxim that the hunter targets the bird that sticks out. They treaded cautiously, avoiding reckless expansion that could attract unwanted attention and peril.
The allure of maritime trade was undeniable, yet many harbored envy without daring to expand imprudently, lest they invite calamity upon themselves one day.
The imperial court’s enduring prohibition meant that everything could be confiscated at any time, a risk that deterred casual expansion.
To prevent potential future losses, cautious restraint was the prudent approach.
As a result, Great Qin’s maritime trade had languished, with even the docks at Hangzhou Bay showing signs of neglect.
Qiao Xuan saw an opportunity to showcase her capabilities.
She had long yearned for Hangzhou Bay, and when she brought up the idea to Shao Yunduan, he recalled their previous aspirations for overseas ventures. Back then, they had contemplated acquiring ships and establishing ports, a venture requiring years of preparation.
Now, with Hangzhou Bay within reach, Qiao Xuan was eager not to let this golden opportunity slip by.
Moreover, developing maritime trade promised greater wealth and resources. It seemed like a logical step forward.
Moved by her enthusiasm, Shao Yunduan saw no harm in exploring this possibility. He discussed it with Zhang Wenshu, Jia Heming, and Zheng Sangge.
Jia Heming and Zheng Sangge were indifferent; if Lord thought it promising, it likely was.
Zhang Wenshu and a group of local officials in Jiangnan were all excited.
Although Zhang Wenshu hailed from Henan, he cared deeply about the country’s affairs and had always been attentive to maritime trade. He harbored a long-held hope that if he ever became an official, he would seize the opportunity to petition the Imperial Court to reopen the seas.
Yet, he knew this was merely a dream.
As a small remended man who had failed the three Advanced Scholar examinations, he had no choice but to bee a teacher. The chance to bee an influential official seemed far-fetched, a mere daydream.
His son’s talent was mediocre, and his students, at best, became remended men like himself. Achieving significant influence seemed impossible within his lifetime.
Unexpectedly, the opportunity came in the most surprising manner!
With the world in chaos and the current situation turbulent, this presented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Not only had he bee an official, but he had also been entrusted with an important task by his Lord. He hadn’t even dared to mention it, nor had he had the time to think about it thoroughly, yet his Lord had brought it up first!
Perhaps, it was fate.
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