Seeing this, Master Huang smiled smugly: "Don't underestimate this stone. It has a history of thousands of years. It is said to be able to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck."
Upon hearing this, a hint of surprise flashed in Li Xi's eyes. Although she didn't completely believe in these ancient legends, and meteorites were indeed highly sought after in her previous life, this was the first time she had ever touched a real one.
She asked softly, "Brother Huang, where did this meteorite come from?"
The smile on Huang Erye's face widened: "This is a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation. It is said that our ancestor obtained it from a high monk, who said that this meteorite was a divine object that fell from the sky and could bless the family to prosper."
Upon hearing this, Li Xi couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. Of course, she knew these legends were all fabricated, but seeing Master Huang's earnest expression, she didn't expose them.
“Brother Huang, this meteorite is truly amazing. I feel much better ever since I touched it.”
After hearing this, Master Huang laughed heartily and said proudly, "I told you, this meteorite is a treasure. Touch it and see, doesn't it feel especially good?"
"Yes, that's true. But why is such a precious meteorite kept in the shop?" she asked curiously.
"Haha, you don't understand. This meteorite is precious, but it also has its uses. Placing it in the shop not only allows people to appreciate its beauty but also attracts more customers and increases the shop's popularity. Moreover, it can bring good luck to the shop!" The shop is staffed with his trusted confidants, so he wasn't worried about this issue at all.
You came all this way just to see a family heirloom? It's not like you're giving it to her.
However, Li Xi resisted the urge to leave and watched to see what tricks Master Huang was up to.
Seeing that she didn't react, Master Huang continued, "This meteorite has another amazing feature: it's said to be able to predict the future. Of course, this is just a legend, and we don't know if it's true or not."
After thinking it over, she still felt she had to ask clearly, "Brother Huang, didn't you say you'd help me do some small business? This..."
Master Huang smiled slightly, gently patted the meteorite, and said, "Business is everywhere; the key is whether you have the eye to spot opportunities. Look at this meteorite; although it seems ordinary, it contains endless value. Sometimes, real business opportunities are hidden in these seemingly insignificant items."
Just as Li Xi was lost in thought, Master Huang suddenly reached out and touched the vase on the counter. A slight click was heard, and one side of the counter slowly slid open, revealing a hidden door.
Li Xi stared in surprise at the hidden door before her, a surge of intense curiosity welling up within her.
Master Huang looked at her, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes, and said, "Young Master Li, the real business often lies hidden where you can't see it. Come with me."
With that, Master Huang took the lead and walked into the hidden door.
Li Xi hesitated for a moment, her mind racing, but in the end she decided to take the risk and follow them.
The world behind the hidden door was completely different from what she usually saw. It was dimly lit, and the air was filled with an indescribable atmosphere.
Li Xi followed closely behind Master Huang, carefully observing everything around her, afraid of missing any detail.
Walking down the long corridor, Li Xi followed closely behind Master Huang, her heart filled with curiosity and trepidation. The moment she pushed open the door, a bright and elegant courtyard came into view. Compared to the dimly lit corridor outside, this was practically another world, brimming with life and vitality.
The courtyard is exquisitely and meticulously furnished, with every detail revealing the owner's taste and craftsmanship. Shaded by lush trees, fragrant with flowers, and filled with the sounds of birdsong, it feels like stepping into a secluded paradise.
Master Huang stopped and turned around to look at Li Xi, a mysterious smile on his face. He pointed to the scene inside the mansion and said, "Young Master Li, this is a paradise."
Following Master Huang's directions, the two entered the courtyard. However, the scene before them shocked Li Xi. Inside, all sorts of people lay on couches, each one immersed in the smoke of opium, as if they had fallen into another world.
Li Xi watched this scene with mixed feelings. She had originally thought that Master Huang would take her to see some novel and legal businesses, but she never expected it to be a place where people smoke opium.
She took a deep breath to calm herself and looked at Master Huang calmly, saying, "Brother Huang, is this the business you're talking about?"
Master Huang nodded, his smile growing even deeper.
"You might find this a bit surprising, but this thing can make you forget all your troubles and bring you endless joy."
"So how do you want to cooperate?" Li Xi decided to probe.
Master Huang smiled slightly, stretched out his hand, and pointed to a large box next to him. “There are plenty of businesses to be had, it just depends on whether you dare to do it. I’ll take care of the supply. You just need to find a good location and make sure it doesn’t cause any trouble. As for the profits, I’ll split them 60/40, and you can have 40/60.”
Li Xi was shocked, but remained calm on the surface. "It is indeed a good deal, but aren't you afraid of being investigated by the authorities?"
"Haha, Brother Li, you don't need to worry about that. I, Huang, have been in this world for so many years, I have my own connections," said Master Huang confidently, as if everything was under his control.
This kind of opium is prohibited from being sold in Jingyuan, so Master Huang must have a very powerful backer.
She decided to continue dealing with Master Huang to see if she could find any loopholes or opportunities.
So she smiled slightly and said in a casual tone, "Brother Huang, I certainly trust your abilities. However, this business involves risks, so I need to think about it."
Upon hearing Li Xi's words, a hint of displeasure flashed in Huang Erye's eyes, but he still nodded to show his understanding: "Brother Li, I understand your concerns. How about this, I'll give you time to consider. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to come to me anytime."
To leave from there, you exit through another exit.
"Brother Li, I'm waiting for your good news." With that, he left.
Back at the inn, Li Xi immediately told Fang Siqi and Chen Quan the whole story in detail.
“Young Master, this matter is very serious, and we may need to discuss it with those above us.” Fang Siqi (Uncle Zhao)’s expression turned serious.
It is unknown whether the magistrate of Huangshi Town is involved in this matter, but the forces behind it are probably not ordinary people.
"Chen Quan, have someone deliver this intelligence to the West Mountain Villa immediately." Li Xi estimated that Feng Monian should have arrived here by now, but wondered what he was here for.
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