Months later, I sat in the Hall of Mental Cultivation, facing Charles Ainsworth, a senior representative of the British East India Company. Ainsworth was a tall, wiry man with sharp features and the air of someone used to getting his way. His powdered wig and immaculate frock coat contrasted sharply with my dragon-embroidered robes.

  Through my interpreter, I began, “Mr. Ainsworth, I trust you are aware of the measures we have taken to regulate the opium trade in China.”

  “I am, Your Majesty,” he replied smoothly. “And I must say, the East India Company is… concerned. Restrictions on trade harm both our nations. Surely there is a way to resolve this amicably.”

  I smiled thinly. “Indeed. Let us speak plainly. The opium trade is a plague upon my people. Entire villages are consumed by addiction, and our treasury bleeds silver while your merchants grow rich. This cannot continue.”

  Ainsworth shifted in his seat. “Opium, Your Majesty, is merely one commodity among many. Its trade is… driven by demand. Perhaps your government should address the habits of your people rather than restrict trade.”

  My smile did not waver. “And we are addressing it. Domestic cultivation is being eradicated, smuggling routes are being shut down, and rehabilitation centers are opening in major cities. But the foreign trade poses a unique challenge—one I am prepared to solve.”

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  I leaned forward. “Your company seeks profit, does it not?”

  “Naturally,” Ainsworth said cautiously.

  “Then let us offer you alternatives. China has goods that your people desire—tea, silk, porcelain. I am prepared to lower tariffs on these items and expand quotas for British merchants. In return, I ask for a phased reduction in opium imports. Gradual enough to avoid disruption but steady enough to end this trade within five years.”

  Ainsworth frowned. “Your Majesty, the opium trade is highly lucrative—far more so than tea or silk. It would be difficult to convince my superiors to accept such terms.”

  “Consider this,” I said, my voice hardening. “The opium trade in China relies on stability. If you continue to poison my people, you risk rebellion, chaos, and disruption to all trade. However, if you work with us, you will gain secure, long-term access to a vast and stable market.”

  He hesitated. “I will need to consult with Calcutta.”

  “Do so,” I said. “But remember: we seek harmony, not conflict. Work with us, and your company will thrive. Resist, and you will find China far less accommodating in the future.”

  Ainsworth bowed stiffly. As he departed, I felt a flicker of hope. The British might not yield easily, but they were pragmatic. If I could make cooperation more profitable than resistance, the tide might yet turn.