In this manner, it appeared that the locals were insufficient in number.

Shao Yunduan dispatched men from Huaixi towards the Central Plain. Upon encountering a significant gathering of refugees, he beckoned them closer.

It was anticipated that initially, they would draw around ten thousand individuals.

Following the assimilation of these initial ten thousand, efforts would persist in attracting more. At such junctures, a larger populace was naturally advantageous.

So long as the influx of refugees remained manageable, Huaixi possessed the capacity to accommodate them and arrange for their placement efficiently.

Those earnestly seeking a secure haven for a stable existence undoubtedly found Huaixi province to be the optimal destination. With time, they would come to realize their worries were unfounded.

As for those with opportunistic tendencies, cunning inclinations, or ulterior motives seeking personal gain, they would face consequences should they transgress the law.

After several rounds of purging and eliminating undesirable elements, what remained were the humble common folk who understood their position well.

Engaging Zhao Shu’s associates in discussions regarding this matter would likely yield twice the results with half the effort.

Zhao Shu’s commercial empire sprawled extensively, particularly across the Jiangnan region.

It was a little-known fact that he had sought refuge with Shao Yunduan in Anze Province alongside his wife. Known for his peripatetic nature, he had a knack for appearing unexpectedly anywhere.

To date, his commercial operations continued unabated.

Various goods, notably medicinal herbs, garments, textiles, salt, agricultural implements, and foodstuffs, continued to be clandestinely and steadily transported to Huaixi province.

Regrettably, horses presented too conspicuous a target, especially amidst the prevailing scarcity across different regions, rendering long-distance transportation unfeasible. Otherwise, even acquiring horses wouldn’t be out of the question.

Amidst the fragmented allegiances and widespread turmoil, no major faction would be foolish enough to antagonize prominent merchants, especially ones as influential as Zhao Shu.

It was imperative to recognize that many essential supplies relied on merchants for transportation.

Any disruption to the caravans would deter future merchants from traversing his territory. With supplies dwindling, the prices of goods would skyrocket, imperiling the populace and potentially undermining the territory’s stability.

The Zhao Family’s caravan boasted considerable power and numerous advantages.

Yet, alongside these benefits came inherent risks. Highwaymen from diverse backgrounds lurked along the routes, preying on travelers. Some local officials succumbed to greed, exploiting the situation for personal gain. Given the present circumstances, it seemed plausible that the continuity of this trade route might soon face jeopardy.

Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan refrained from involving the Yuezheng Family in their endeavors, as their affairs bore no relation to the Yuezhengs.

The jurisdiction of the Yuezheng Family extended solely over Yuzhang, thus absolving them from entanglements in external matters.

Efforts were underway to recruit additional manpower, with the search persisting.

Given the unsuitability for planting at present, Qiao Xuan resolved to cultivate fungi such as silver fungus, mushrooms, wood fungus, and tea tree mushrooms.

Furthermore, she allocated land for the cultivation of medicinal herbs, commencing the planting during autumn.

Cotton, fruits, and paddy fields would have to be cultivated in the coming year.

It seemed apparent that Huaixi province had little cause for concern regarding supply shortages.

Qiao Xuan’s agricultural domain spanned an impressive 60,000 mu, boasting a growing period for crops twice as long as that outside. This enabled continuous farming, resulting in significantly higher yields, serving as her most potent asset.

Presently, her primary cultivation comprised rice, wheat, cotton, and an array of medicinal herbs. Coincidentally, being responsible for material storage and dispatch, she now had considerably more opportunities to access resources than previously.