Originally, Kiara had already made up her mind to spend 25000 gold coins to purchase that five-acre land, and in her thoughts, it was nothing more than an unavoidable expense, a price to pay so that she could expand her plans without interference. But now, as she stood there holding the official document from the Imperial Palace, she slowly realized that the entire situation had shifted in a way she did not expect.
The land was given.
Not sold.
Not leased.
But granted for use.
For free.
Her fingers lightly tapped the edge of the parchment as she read the lines again, her eyes narrowing slightly as the meaning settled deeper, because while it sounded like a benefit on the surface, there was a condition hidden beneath it, subtle yet firm, like a chain wrapped in silk.
"The land belongs to the Empire…"
Her thoughts paused.
"I can use it…"
"But I do not own it."
