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Despite the explicit prohibition on sea transportation by the Great Qin Imperial Court, issued decades ago and never rescinded, the flourishing sea trade had evaded suppression or enforcement.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.
