After passing through Zhili and Shandong provinces, they traveled without incident. Soon they could see Fengyang Prefecture ahead, and heading south from there, they wouldn’t be far from the provincial capital Hefei. At this point, batches of refugees continuously poured in from the opposite direction on the road. Secretary Hao was a native of Fengyang Prefecture, so he couldn’t help but be concerned at this sight. He got off the cart to inquire and was startled by what he learned, hurrying back to find Gu Pingyuan.

“Brother Gu, this is very bad news!”

“What’s wrong?”

“Chen Yucheng’s troops have surrounded Hefei city for over ten days now.”

Everyone was shocked to hear this, especially Gu Pingyuan. His family was being held under surveillance by the provincial governor’s office, which meant his mother, younger brother, and sister were all inside Hefei city – he couldn’t help but be anxious. Chang Yu’er was also extremely worried when she heard this.

“What’s the current situation now?”

“It’s hard to get the real story from the refugees. They only say that the Taiping army has surrounded Hefei like an iron barrel – not even a mosquito could fly out.”

“As long as there’s stored grain, there’s no need to fear – they can wait for reinforcements.” Gu Pingyuan truly lived up to having read piles of military treatises in the great camp.

Secretary Hao slapped his thigh: “You’ve hit the nail on the head. There’s barely enough grain in Hefei city to last a month.”

Only then did Gu Pingyuan become truly frightened: “Whose idea was this? Chen Yucheng is right there at Sanhe Town – with the enemy so close, why didn’t the city store more grain?”

“Hefei is easy to attack but hard to defend. Plus Chen Yucheng is truly fierce, so Governor Yuan Jiasan planned that if they couldn’t match the Taipings, he’d simply burn down Hefei and retreat to the easily defensible Fengyang Prefecture. That’s why Fengyang has more stored grain than Hefei. Strangely enough, this Governor Yuan was constantly preparing to flee, yet in the end he still got surrounded. This Chen Yucheng is truly remarkable at warfare.” Secretary Hao kept making these observations.

At this point, Gu Pingyuan became even more anxious. When he’d returned, he’d been thinking that the situation in Huizhou would be the same as when he left – as long as Yuan Jiasan and Chen Yucheng remained in mutual confrontation with neither able to overcome the other, he’d have a chance to mediate between them. He hadn’t expected the situation to develop so rapidly. If Chen Yucheng captured Hefei city, he’d surely advance north with that momentum, and when morale was high, what would be the point of talking about surrender to the court? Moreover, his own family was probably in Hefei city. When the city fell, there would surely be bloody battles, and on the battlefield, common people would likely face more bad fortune than good. Gu Pingyuan had another fear – the provincial governor’s office was holding his family under surveillance because of his past relationship with the English King’s consort. In other words, they considered him someone with connections to the Taipings. Since Yuan Jiasan had the intention to burn the city, he might very well first execute those in the city with Taiping connections to eliminate future troubles.

The more Gu Pingyuan thought about it, the more agitated he became. Secretary Hao could see this and helped devise a plan: have Liu Heita take Chang Yu’er back to Gu Family Village in Huizhou first. They couldn’t just live at the Gu family home anyway, but fortunately the clan members and Old Min all knew Liu Heita, so she could be temporarily settled at the tea garden, which would also spare Chang Yu’er the danger of being near the battlefield. Gu Pingyuan and Secretary Hao would go near Hefei to gather information, and if possible, try to find a way to sneak into the city. Everything would have to wait until they could see Yuan Jiasan.

Chang Yu’er was initially unwilling. First, she was worried about Gu Pingyuan, and second, although she was the Gu family’s daughter-in-law, returning to Gu Family Village so inexplicably to face so many Gu clan members made her feel rather intimidated. Liu Heita was also torn – he wasn’t afraid of fighting and even wanted to join in the excitement, but escorting his sister was something only he could do. In the end, Secretary Hao explained the stakes clearly and finally persuaded the Chang siblings. The two carts that had been traveling together parted ways after Fengyang. When they separated, Chang Yu’er was reluctant to part and urged Gu Pingyuan to be careful about everything. Liu Heita then took his sister on a detour through Fuyang and Lu’an toward Huizhou.

Gu Pingyuan and Secretary Hao headed straight south. This road became increasingly dangerous to travel, as they frequently encountered Taiping patrols who inspected vehicles and horses from the north particularly strictly. The large cart was too conspicuous, so Gu Pingyuan and Secretary Hao had to abandon the cart and travel on horseback. Fortunately, Secretary Hao often traveled this route and knew all the main roads and small paths. By winding around this way, the two men finally approached Hefei city. Along the way, houses in villages and towns all flew Taiping flags. Going further ahead, they could see a stretch of connected camps with trenches and chevaux-de-frise around the edges – this was the great camp set up for the siege. No one except the Taipings could pass through, and the two of them didn’t dare provoke trouble, so they avoided it from a distance.

Both being from Huizhou, they naturally knew where to go to survey the terrain. Near Hefei’s outskirts was a mountain called “Dashu Mountain,” supposedly a spur of the Dabie Mountains. Legend had it that a Shu monk had built a Kaifu Temple there, hence the name. At the peak was a pavilion called Xueji Pavilion, the highest point near Hefei. Climbing Dashu Mountain to view the Fei River was a pastime for local literati and refined scholars, but Gu Pingyuan’s purpose in climbing the mountain this time was purely to observe the formations of both sides.

When they reached Xueji Pavilion, Gu Pingyuan didn’t rest but immediately shaded his eyes to look down the mountain.

“Brother Hao, come look at this.” Knowing that Secretary Hao couldn’t see clearly, Gu Pingyuan pointed things out to him.

“South of the city is the Taipings’ main camp, stretching at least ten li in each direction. The great camps to the west, north, and east of the city are also spread out in a line. Besides the connected camps, there are trenches and ash ditches, plus arrow towers. The entire Hefei city is surrounded like a zongzi dumpling – sooner or later it’ll be food in Chen Yucheng’s mouth.”

Secretary Hao squinted as he looked, his heart also sinking: “This is bad. How did Chen Yucheng even occupy the east and north sides? What was Feidong County doing? They were guarding the natural barrier of Chao Lake and still let Chen Yucheng break through.”

Gu Pingyuan frowned silently. It seemed entering the city would be extremely difficult, but without entering the city, there was no other plan. He was lowering his head to think of a solution when he suddenly sensed someone in front of him. Startled, he looked up to see two gleaming steel sabers thrust before his chest.

“Who are you!” The leader wore Qing army colors – a seventh-rank battalion commander who shouted his question loudly.

They hadn’t expected to encounter government troops here. The two exchanged glances, both pleasantly surprised. Secretary Hao knew he had to step forward. He approached and cupped his hands: “Greetings, military sir. This humble one is a secretary at She County’s county office and assistant coordinator for the Xin’an River waterway. My surname is Hao, and I have credentials here.”

Secretary Hao’s position wasn’t appointed by the Ministry of Personnel, so he didn’t have a department certificate sealed with the purple clay great seal that could prove his official status. What could prove his official identity was a letter of appointment – essentially Qiao Henian’s letter hiring him to help coordinate waterway patrols. If the Taipings found this document, he’d lose his head for sure, so Secretary Hao had folded it into a strip and hidden it in his belt. In his haste, retrieving it was quite troublesome.

Seeing him unable to produce the credentials after a long time, the battalion commander said impatiently: “Don’t bother with that. Just come with us. Our superior will know if you’re real or fake as soon as he sees you.”

“How so?”

“Aren’t you a secretary from She County?”

“Yes.”

“Our superior is the county magistrate of She County – Magistrate Qiao.”

Oh my! Neither Gu Pingyuan nor Secretary Hao had expected Qiao Henian to be here. Both were overjoyed and quickly asked the soldiers to lead the way. The two followed them to a military camp stationed at the northern peak of Dashu Mountain.

After the soldiers announced them, they were immediately summoned inside. Gu Pingyuan hurried into the main tent and was stunned by what he saw.

In the tent, officials sat on both sides, each wearing court robes with somber expressions. Looking ahead, one person sat behind the official desk in the center, wearing sixth-rank official robes, his face dark as water, saying nothing – it was indeed Qiao Henian.

“Magistrate Qiao! Your subordinate has completed the ‘delayed transport surcharge’ assignment. The tribute grain has all been transported to the Tongzhou granary.” Secretary Hao bowed upward. He had official business with him on this trip to Beijing and needed to report back first.

Qiao Henian nodded: “Teacher Hao, this trip was hard on you. Please rest in the rear tent first.”

As a commoner, Gu Pingyuan had no status in this setting and couldn’t rashly approach Qiao Henian to greet him. He could only make eye contact to signal his presence and followed Secretary Hao to the rear tent.

An attendant first offered them seats and served tea and refreshments. Both Gu and Hao had a question in their minds. Secretary Hao recognized the attendant – he was Qiao Henian’s personal servant – so he beckoned him over.

“Kang Qi, don’t be busy yet. Let me ask you something.”

“Please speak, Secretary. I’m listening.” Kang Qi nodded and bowed with a face full of smiles.

Secretary Hao pondered for a moment before asking: “Magistrate Qiao is the county magistrate of She County, but why does it look like he’s in charge of this military camp?”

“You don’t know about this. Right now, all the officials large and small throughout Anhui Province are trapped in the provincial capital. Outside the city, our Magistrate Qiao has the highest official rank. If he doesn’t take charge, who will?”

“Such a thing exists?” Secretary Hao and Gu Pingyuan exchanged glances, both confused. “Tell us the details.”

About half a month ago, an official document came from the provincial capital requiring all principal officials from prefectures, sub-prefectures, and counties throughout the province to come to the capital to discuss raising military funds. The governor had spoken – prefects, sub-prefects, and county magistrates all set out for the provincial capital. Because Qiao Henian managed both civil administration and waterway patrol duties – originally he had Secretary Hao handle this task, but Secretary Hao had gone to the capital – Qiao Henian couldn’t neglect it. So he delayed two days, finally finished handling urgent matters at hand, arranged for the deputy magistrate to mind the seal, and set out for Hefei himself.

But those two days’ delay meant Hefei city was no longer accessible. Chen Yucheng personally led troops to break through the passage between Chao Lake and Feidong County, then divided his forces into two routes. He himself established camp between Feidong and Feixi counties, controlling the southeast side of Hefei, while his general Huang Wenjin led twenty thousand troops to seal off all major and minor routes west of Hefei.

“What about the north side?” Attacking Hefei, the most crucial position was north of the city. The east, west, and south sides only needed to focus on surrounding and attacking Hefei, but the Taipings on the north side had to fight on two fronts – both dealing with Qing reinforcements from Shandong and Zhili, and guarding against desperate Qing troops in the city trying to break out and escape to Fengyang. The pressure was ten times greater. No wonder Secretary Hao was surprised that it wasn’t the popular Chen Yucheng or the mighty “Yellow Tiger” Huang Wenjin commanding the siege of the north side.

“The north side,” Kang Qi lowered his voice, “Secretary Hao, you’ll never guess – you actually know this person. He’s an acquaintance.”

“An acquaintance?”

“That’s right. He’s your fellow from Fengyang, and he even came to pay his respects to you before you left for the capital.” Qiao Henian’s personal servant had one major flaw – he loved to be mysterious when speaking.

“This…” Secretary Hao frowned in thought, then suddenly looked up, his eyes showing great fear. “You mean Cheng Xueqi?”

“Exactly!”

“Disaster, disaster!” Secretary Hao cried out in alarm.

“Cheng Xueqi?” Gu Pingyuan asked from the side – he hadn’t heard this name before.

Secretary Hao didn’t answer but stood up and paced frantically in the tent. He was normally a humorous man, and this was the first time Gu Pingyuan had seen him look so grave.

“Kang Qi, who is this Cheng Xueqi?”

“He’s quite formidable. Many people compare him to Jiang Wei from the Three Kingdoms period – both brave and strategic.”

“Is he really that capable?” Gu Pingyuan raised an eyebrow and asked in disbelief.

Secretary Hao took up the conversation: “No wonder you don’t know. You haven’t been in Anhui for several years. Cheng Xueqi only made his reputation in the past two years.”

Cheng Xueqi was the son of a wealthy man in Suzhou County, Fengyang Prefecture. His father died early, so he inherited the family business young. With no one supervising his studies, he didn’t love reading classics like the Four Books and Five Classics, but was instead interested in military texts. He read works like “The Art of War,” “Sun Bin’s Twelve Strategies,” and “Records of Sacred Military Affairs” until he knew them by heart. He’d use his family’s back garden as a battlefield, carving wooden soldiers, horses, and ships, commanding servants daily in military formations, attacking cities and seizing territory, with shouts that shook heaven and earth. Eventually even his family couldn’t tolerate his antics, so Cheng Xueqi simply settled his mother and wife in the old residence and built another estate thirty li outside the city, complete with a military training ground. He didn’t just theorize about warfare but actually drilled troops.

When word of this spread, everyone treated it as the idle pastime of someone wealthy and wayward, passing it around as a joke. After all, in peaceful times, reading military books was just entertainment – who would take it so seriously? Some well-meaning people advised him to take the military exams for military scholar or military graduate degrees to bring honor to his family. Cheng Xueqi flatly refused, saying he didn’t want to be constrained. But later when the Taipings rose and localities began organizing militia, Cheng Xueqi’s abilities proved useful. Young men from various villages and towns continuously came to join him, and local gentry contributed silver to fund his troops. Gradually, Cheng Xueqi organized ten battalions with over ten thousand brave soldiers.

This Cheng Xueqi was truly a natural general – his orders were obeyed without question, his commands decisive, and his ten thousand men all listened to him with complete loyalty. Both the court and the Taipings wanted to recruit him, but Cheng Xueqi was truly exceptional. He neither accepted court assignments nor submitted to Taiping orders, restraining his brave soldiers from leaving Suzhou County’s boundaries. Whoever dared enter to disturb the people, he’d send troops to drive them out. Over several years, he’d fought battles against Taiping forces, court armies, and the bandit king Miao Peilin’s troops, winning great victories in each case. His fame thus soared, with everyone calling him an unparalleled hero.

“He’s fought against the court too – isn’t that rebellion?” Gu Pingyuan asked with wide eyes.

“Heh heh, who dares call him a rebel? Initially Governor Yuan coveted the ten thousand troops under Cheng Xueqi’s command and sent forces to conscript them, only to be soundly defeated. Only then did he realize Cheng Xueqi’s capabilities and didn’t dare report this matter to the court – if he really provoked Cheng Xueqi into rebellion, his position as governor wouldn’t be secure either. Later, when groups of defeated soldiers entered Suzhou to kill and plunder, Cheng Xueqi caught them and chopped off their heads. Governor Yuan simply ignored it, pretending not to know.”

“So Suzhou County became a ‘three-way no-man’s-land’?”

“Exactly! The court couldn’t control it, the Taipings couldn’t manage it, and bandits didn’t dare interfere – a true ‘three-way no-man’s-land.'”

“If that’s the case, why did Cheng Xueqi end up with the Taipings?”

“I don’t understand that either. When I last saw him, he was still talking about helping neither side. I never expected him to turn and join the Taipings so quickly. With Chen Yucheng gaining such a capable general, it’s like adding wings to a tiger – no wonder he dares besiege Hefei.” Secretary Hao sighed heavily.

“Cheng Xueqi was forced to the Taiping side.” The voice rang out as personal guards lifted the tent flap and Qiao Henian walked in.

The two men quickly came forward to greet him. Although Gu Pingyuan and Qiao Henian were friends through hardship, now that their paths as official and civilian had diverged, by rights he should kowtow to the county magistrate. Qiao Henian naturally reached out to stop him, his attitude quite warm as he sat casually with Gu Pingyuan to talk. Secretary Hao had already written to report Gu Pingyuan’s escape, and he asked detailed questions again, especially about Gu Pingyuan’s injuries. Since Qiao Henian now managed military affairs, he instructed Kang Qi to get the best external wound medicine from the military supplies officer and wrapped a large package for Gu Pingyuan.

After they finished talking, Secretary Hao reported to Qiao Henian about the details of transporting tribute grain. Gu Pingyuan took the opportunity to observe Qiao Henian and felt that after just a few months, his official bearing had increased considerably. His gestures carried dignity, completely different from the pharmacy assistant he’d once been. Qiao Henian’s eyes were red and bloodshot, his expression slightly weary as he sipped cup after cup of the strong tea Kang Qi had brewed to keep himself alert.

“Sir, you probably haven’t had any rest these days.” After hearing them finish their official business, Gu Pingyuan commented.

Qiao Henian smiled bitterly: “Rest? Sigh, if I could sleep for a while that would be good enough. Only now do I understand what it means to shoulder a thousand-pound burden alone, but I’m merely a sixth-rank official – this responsibility is truly beyond my capacity.”

To hold this office, one must perform these duties. Even if he couldn’t bear it, he had to. This showed the hardships of being an official. When war broke out, common people could simply flee, but if an official fled, not only would his entire career be ruined, but the court wouldn’t forgive him either.

“Brother Pingyuan, I never expected things would turn out this way. I’m truly sorry.” Qiao Henian looked apologetically toward the city walls of the provincial capital.

Gu Pingyuan understood immediately. Though he’d been prepared, he still asked with a trembling voice: “My family is really in the city?”

“Yes.” Qiao Henian immediately continued, “But don’t worry. They’re only under surveillance, not imprisoned. I fought for this condition. I also rented a small courtyard for your mother, younger brother, and sister to live in. Though it’s not comfortable, they haven’t suffered.”

“I’m truly grateful to Magistrate Qiao. What about now – what’s the situation in the city?”

“It’s really hard to say now.” Qiao Henian’s face showed deep worry. “Inside the city, people’s hearts are certainly in turmoil. War is fought with grain, especially siege warfare. Insufficient stored grain makes it difficult to hold out.” He looked around, seeing only Kang Qi present, and lowered his voice: “Brother Pingyuan, let me tell you honestly – Hefei city probably can’t be held.”

Although they’d seen the array of Taiping camps on Dashu Mountain and it was obvious the government troops couldn’t match the Taipings, hearing these words from Qiao Henian’s mouth still made both Gu and Hao’s hearts sink to the bottom.

“I can only say this here. If word got out, it would be terrible for morale.” Qiao Henian’s voice carried hoarseness. He drank a large gulp of strong tea, the bitterness making him wrinkle his nose and eyes. Setting down the teacup, he continued: “Cheng Xueqi joining the Taipings is truly a fatal blow to the government forces. His ten thousand men are strong and well-armed. If not one against ten, they can certainly handle two or three of these Eight Banner troops and Army of the Green Standard each. Moreover, these brave soldiers are all locals who know the geography extremely well, gaining the advantage of terrain. The court has tried sending troops to break the siege, but Cheng Xueqi has already repelled them three times. With no grain or funds inside and no reinforcements outside, how is Hefei city not destined to fall any day now?”

“Sir, you command troops outside the city – why not coordinate with the government forces inside to attack the Taipings from both sides?”

“You think I don’t want to? First, there are no brave generals to lead troops – that’s manageable, at worst I’ll personally take the field. But having no military funds is truly deadly. To have men risk their lives in battle, reward silver must be given in full. General Fukang’an of the Qianlong reign bought enemy heads with silver when fighting – those were victories fed with money. Now with grain and funds scarce, never mind fighting, just keeping the troops from mutinying is difficult enough.”

“Didn’t the court issue an edict long ago that military funds would be assisted by provinces not at war, delivered monthly? How could there be a shortage of funds?”

“Brother Pingyuan, no wonder you don’t know – you’re a businessman, how would you know the difficulties of being an official? This official position isn’t so easy to hold. Take Governor Yuan for example. He’s a dignified provincial governor, a high official with a red button, managing military affairs on horseback and civilian matters on foot, establishing his office with full ceremony – who in the entire province can match his prestige? But just for these funds, Governor Yuan has endured countless frustrations.”

Currently Shaanxi and Shandong were suppressing the Nian rebels, while Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hunan, Hubei, Guangdong, and Guangxi were fighting the Taipings. By count, half the country’s provinces were at war. Once warfare began, with wastelands stretching for hundreds of li, collecting grain and donations naturally became much harder than in peaceful times. So besides raising military funds within their own provinces, provinces not at war had to make extra efforts to help raise military grain and funds, called “cooperative funding.”

Cooperative funding had fixed quotas – generally wealthy provinces contributed more, poor provinces less. Rich lands like Jiangsu and Zhejiang, though fighting their own wars, still had to provide cooperative funding to provinces where fighting was intense. Originally, imperial edicts set these regulations, but actual implementation was quite different.

“Take the Zeng brothers of Liangjiang for example. Zeng Guofan is an Assistant Grand Secretary, a proper first-rank prime minister of the court with great reputation. Governors of various provinces all have relationships with him, and his brother Zeng Guoquan, the ninth master, is famously unreasonable and domineering. With the elder brother having people willingly send things and the younger able to seize them, they diverted much more of other provinces’ cooperative funding. Then there’s Zhejiang Governor Li Hongzhang and Fujian-Zhejiang Governor-General Zuo Zongtang – one skilled in human relations, the other masterful in methods – who similarly monopolized large portions of various provinces’ cooperative funding.”

The pie was only so big – if some took more, others naturally got less. This too was “treating people according to their status.” Anhui Governor Yuan Jiasan couldn’t match Zeng Guofan in seniority, Zeng Guoquan in backing, Li Hongzhang in smoothness, or Zuo Zongtang in domineering behavior. As a result, he was bullied everywhere and invisibly became a soft target. The cooperative funding that should have been allocated to Anhui didn’t even reach half, and was often delayed.

Without military funds, soldiers’ monthly wages had to be owed. These were all veteran soldiers – they’d grumble after one month without pay, curse after two months, and after three months without wages, they’d grab their weapons and join the Taipings. Yuan Jiasan was also robbing Peter to pay Paul, borrowing against future income. He barely managed to support the situation, relying mainly on military donations from Huizhou merchants.

“This time the governor summoned principal officials from all prefectures and counties to the provincial capital supposedly to discuss raising funds. I also heard that several famous merchants from other provinces came to help the court’s armies in suppression. Who would have thought that before anything was settled, Chen Yucheng would catch them all in one net.”

“So that’s how it is. Magistrate Qiao doesn’t dare easily send troops because of insufficient grain and funds leading to low morale.” Gu Pingyuan’s words had a recent precedent. In the eighth year of Xianfeng, when the Taipings broke through the Jiangnan Great Camp for the second time, the camp had been set up like an iron barrel and should have been impregnable. It was only because Imperial Commissioner Heshen insisted on withholding military wages, wanting to use this to force soldiers to fight effectively, using military pay as bait for breaking Tianjing. Instead, this made the three armies resentful. When the Taipings attacked, no one resisted and they all fled. Finally, Heshen was swept away by chaotic troops to Hangzhou. Knowing the court wouldn’t forgive him, he committed suicide.

“Yes, if grain and funds were sufficient, I’d risk everything for a fight no matter what.” Qiao Henian looked quite spirited.

But Secretary Hao held a more cautious view: “Sir, I feel that now the Taipings’ victory is assured. Rather than having this army fight the Taipings, it’s better to preserve our strength and wait for opportunity.”

“What do you mean?”

“Whoever has troops has power. Right now is a golden opportunity.” Secretary Hao was indeed a secretary, skilled at planning and strategy. He pointed at the ground with his pipe stem and slowly explained to Qiao Henian: “Why did people like Zeng Guofan and Li Hongzhang rise in just a few years from Hanlin scholars and expectant prefects to governors-general and governors? Especially Zuo Zongtang – a few years ago he was just a secretary under Hunan Governor Luo Bingzhang, but now he’s transformed into a governor-general with rank above his former master. In previous dynasties, this would have been truly inconceivable.”

Secretary Hao was right. For someone like Zuo Zongtang to rise from an insignificant minor clerk to a first-rank high official managing two provinces’ military and civilian affairs in just a few years was truly unprecedented since the Qing dynasty’s founding.

“Ultimately it’s because they have troops in their hands. The Xiang Army, Chu Army, and Huai Army are essentially their own personal forces – they recruit their own soldiers, raise their own funds, purchase their own weapons, merely fighting for the court. The court understands this too, so they don’t stint on rapid promotions in official rank, using titles to reward these heroes of troubled times.”

“Teacher Hao speaks insightfully!” Hearing Secretary Hao’s clear explanation, Qiao Henian couldn’t help but praise.

Encouraged, Secretary Hao became even more energetic and continued: “Right now this is a once-in-a-millennium opportunity for you, sir. If not for all officials fifth rank and above throughout the province being trapped in the provincial capital, it wouldn’t be your turn to command troops. In my opinion, rather than fight a battle with no guarantee of success, it’s better to first withdraw the forces to a safe place, reorganize them, then defend the parts of Anhui still under court control. This approach is not only prudent but also beneficial to you, sir. During reorganization, you can cultivate trusted followers, following Zeng and Li’s example to expand your own power. I’m thinking of your interests, sir – this is truly a shortcut to success.”

Qiao Henian was moved by what he heard. If this were truly the case, he could effortlessly control a “Qiao Family Army.” If he commanded well and won several consecutive battles, perhaps this position of Anhui Governor could be his.

Seeing his interest, Secretary Hao wanted to say more, but suddenly felt Gu Pingyuan beside him give him a hard elbow to the ribs, making Secretary Hao wince in pain.

Gu Pingyuan was furious inside, thinking: Brother Hao, how can you talk such nonsense? What you’re saying makes sense in principle, and I saw on Dashu Mountain’s Xueji Pavilion that breaking the Taiping siege would be as difficult as ascending to heaven. But I must break this siege. Don’t forget my mother is in the city – can I let the Taipings break through? When swords and spears have no eyes, who can guarantee my family’s safety?

Secretary Hao had also gotten carried away with his eloquence and forgotten that the Gu family was in Hefei city. When Gu Pingyuan nudged him, he remembered and immediately became tongue-tied, not knowing what to do.

Gu Pingyuan glared at Secretary Hao. He knew Qiao Henian was an ambitious scholar. From the incident when bandits attacked Pingtian County at Crooked Neck Ridge, it was clear he was very keen on official position. So Secretary Hao’s few words had already moved his heart, but Gu Pingyuan absolutely couldn’t let him do this. Right now, the government army under Qiao Henian’s command was the last hope for breaking Hefei’s siege – it had to be kept here.

“Sir, if you want to keep your official hat, or even your head, you absolutely cannot ignore Hefei.” Gu Pingyuan began with an alarming statement that indeed drew Qiao Henian’s burning enthusiasm back to the matter at hand.

“How do you mean?”

“Sir, please consider – the court can’t send reinforcements now, and the entire province is counting on the government troops under your command to break the siege. If you disregard everything and pull away your forces, it would be equivalent to handing Hefei city over to the Taipings on a silver platter. Won’t the common people curse your name behind your back?

“Moreover, when Brother Hao just compared you to Zeng, Li, and Zuo, how can that comparison hold? They recruited troops from their hometowns – soldiers who obeyed orders without question and followed commands completely. If you, sir, also want to emulate them, you should return to Shanxi to recruit brave soldiers. This current force of yours has Eight Banner troops and Army of the Green Standard soldiers – they’re all veteran soldiers who fight only for military pay. How could they willingly sacrifice their lives for you?”

“This…” Qiao Henian hesitated after hearing this.

“There’s another point you haven’t considered, sir. If Chen Yucheng truly captures Hefei, he’ll occupy the central hub of Anhui Province. With generals like Huang Wenjin and Cheng Xueqi under his command, he can strike out in all directions. Then you’ll bear the brunt of it, sir. If you really faced off against Cheng Xueqi, Yellow Tiger, or even Chen Yucheng himself, what are your chances of victory?”

Since becoming an official, Qiao Henian knew that living in troubled times would inevitably involve commanding troops in battle, so he’d read many military treatises. But it was still armchair strategizing – naturally he was far inferior to those battle-hardened generals. He had self-awareness and shook his head repeatedly.

“Since you can’t defeat them, you’d have to retreat. If you retreat from Anhui, where would you go, sir? To Zeng Guofan’s Liangjiang? Or Zuo Zongtang’s Fujian-Zhejiang? Or perhaps you want to compete with Li Hongzhang for territory?”

This was even more absurd. A mere sixth-rank official who left his provincial jurisdiction would become a wandering official without territory. To see Zeng Guofan, he’d have to submit a formal request and wait in line for an audience. As for competing with governors-general and governors for territory – that would make people laugh their teeth out.

“Enough, Brother Pingyuan, don’t say anymore. I was thinking wrongly just now. Teacher Hao, you needn’t blame yourself either – you were thinking of my interests. In the future, whenever you have such thoughts, please continue to share them with me.” Qiao Henian gently comforted the embarrassed and uneasy Secretary Hao. “So what good ideas do you have, Brother Pingyuan?”

“I have only one idea – we must break the siege of Hefei at all costs. When that happens, Magistrate Qiao will have achieved the greatest merit. No one can diminish this achievement, and Governor Yuan will owe you a great debt of gratitude.”

This would be a life-saving favor. Yuan Jiasan would naturally reward him generously – at least he wouldn’t spare ink in his performance evaluation, and the rewards would undoubtedly be substantial.

“But what I said earlier is also true – without military pay, I can’t command these soldier-gentlemen, let alone lead them into battle. Moreover, Chen Yucheng, Huang Wenjin, and Cheng Xueqi form a triangular siege around Hefei. None of them are easy to deal with. I really have no confidence in victory.” Qiao Henian looked at the map spread on the table and frowned tightly again.

“I’ll make a trip to Sanhe Town.” Gu Pingyuan suddenly said.

Qiao Henian was greatly shocked: “You want to go to the Taiping stronghold?”

“That’s right. I plan to probe the Taipings’ true situation.” Gu Pingyuan had a sudden inspiration but didn’t want the two men before him to see through his real intentions. “You both know I’m childhood friends with the English King’s consort Bai Yimei. The only reason I survived and returned to Huizhou was because the court saw I could be useful – they wanted me to lure her into a trap and then capture Chen Yucheng. Now it seems this is almost impossible, but regardless, I must see her once to find out about the Taipings’ movements.”

“That would be good.” The people under Qiao Henian’s command were truly incompetent. The soldiers were all lazy, the officers all slack – it was utterly dispirited. If not for enemies being so close that life and death hung by a thread, no one would listen when Qiao Henian gave orders. Even so, seeing that the court couldn’t even pay military wages, these officers and soldiers were even more unwilling to face the enemy. Qiao Henian had just lost his temper in front because his scouts were ineffective – after half a month, they still couldn’t gather intelligence on the Taipings’ military deployment, leaving Qiao Henian like a blind man.

“When you see Bai Yimei, you must find out three things: where are the main forces of the three Taiping armies positioned, which areas are relatively weak and could serve as breakthrough points for coordinated attacks from inside and outside, and how long can the Taipings maintain their siege with their grain and funds?” Qiao Henian secretly instructed Gu Pingyuan before his departure.

“The Princess says she doesn’t wish to see you. Please return, Young Master Gu.” The person who came out from the high walls of the royal residence to meet Gu Pingyuan was still the same servant woman who had originally led him into the residence. “After today’s parting, we shall never meet again!” Back then in the red pine forest of Nanling, when Gu Pingyuan and Chen Yucheng joined forces to rescue Bai Yimei, she was caught between the two men and finally resolutely left with Chen Yucheng, leaving behind just these words. These words stuck in Gu Pingyuan’s heart like a steel awl, causing pain every time he remembered them.

“Please tell your Princess that I haven’t come to reminisce about old times – I have urgent matters to discuss.” Gu Pingyuan closed his eyes, forcibly suppressing that bitter helplessness, keeping his tone as calm as possible.

“I’m sorry, Young Master Gu.” The servant woman spoke respectfully but with a very resolute tone. “The Princess said that no matter what else you might say, I’m not allowed to relay it to her. Otherwise she’ll expel me from the residence. This servant truly doesn’t dare – please forgive me, Young Master.”

Gu Pingyuan hadn’t expected Bai Yimei to be so stubbornly determined, iron-willed in her desire to sever all ties with him. Was it for Chen Yucheng’s sake? He couldn’t describe the feeling in his heart. He knew this jealousy was unreasonable – not only was Bai Yimei already married, but he himself had also started a family. By rights, this old affection should be severed, but he simply couldn’t forget Bai Yimei’s every smile and frown. If she were far away, he might be able to avoid thinking of her, but she was right inside these walls, no more than ten zhang away, yet they could never meet again – this was what Gu Pingyuan found most unbearable.

Gu Pingyuan paced back and forth restlessly for a few steps, then suddenly reached into his robe and pulled out a brocade pouch.

“Since I’m not allowed to bring in even a single word, surely I can bring an object. Give this brocade pouch to the Princess – you needn’t say anything.”

“This…” The servant woman was in a difficult position.

“Otherwise I’ll wait here indefinitely.” Gu Pingyuan was also being somewhat obstinate.

“Very well then, please wait a moment, Young Master Gu.”

This wait was far from “a moment” – a full hour passed with no one emerging. Gu Pingyuan stood there motionless, looking at the high walls of the royal residence, but his mind was on the courtyard where Bai Yimei had once lived in Gu Family Village. By rights, after Teacher Bai’s death, that house should have belonged to Bai Yimei, but needless to say, she would never return. The clan decided to sell the house and use the proceeds to build a proper tomb for Teacher Bai. Gu Pingyuan bought those two rooms by the small stream at the village entrance, keeping everything exactly as it had been, untouched.

Whenever he was physically exhausted or mentally drained, Gu Pingyuan liked to sit in Bai Yimei’s boudoir. He had never entered this room before – back then the two had treated each other with proper etiquette, and though their feelings ran deep, they never transgressed propriety. Bai Yimei was a young lady, naturally, but Gu Pingyuan had long considered her his unwedded wife in his heart, which made him even more careful and attentive, unwilling to cause gossip about Bai Yimei in the village due to a moment of passionate impulse.

Unexpectedly, after Bai Yimei married, he could instead enter her boudoir without any scruples. His younger sister Gu Yuting sometimes accompanied him to sweep away the dust and clean the courtyard. Once she saw a pleated skirt Bai Yimei had left behind and couldn’t bear to put it down. These clothes would just go to waste sitting idle anyway, but Gu Pingyuan glared at her and harshly scolded his younger sister, insisting she put it back exactly as it was. This made Gu Yuting cry and run away, and she never came again. Gu Pingyuan felt bad about it too, and later went to a clothing shop in the prefectural city to buy an even better one, which made his younger sister smile through her tears.

“If I could forget, I’d want to forget too. Who wants to have a knife constantly cutting slowly in their heart? But when you can’t forget, what can you do!” Gu Pingyuan’s thoughts wandered as he stood there in a daze.

“Young Master Gu.” Someone behind him called his name several times before Gu Pingyuan turned around.

“The Princess says she doesn’t want to see you.”

Gu Pingyuan sighed silently and said nothing. At this point, there was nothing he could do.

“But if you must see her, if you absolutely have to, then follow me.” After saying this, the servant woman turned and walked into the residence.

Gu Pingyuan stared at her retreating figure in bewilderment, turning these words over in his mind several times but still unable to grasp their meaning. Seeing she was about to enter the main gate of the royal residence, he quickly stepped forward to follow.

The front hall of the royal residence was the council chamber, also called the Silver Peace Hall, guarded by Taiping soldiers holding long spears. Seeing a “Qing demon” with a queue behind his head walk in, they all opened their eyes wide, and a minor officer immediately came over to stop him.

Fortunately, the explanation had been thought out beforehand, and it wasn’t really a lie – they said Gu Pingyuan was a relative from the Princess’s hometown, coming to visit family. This was certainly acceptable. The minor officer searched Gu Pingyuan and found no weapons, so he immediately let him pass into the inner residence.

The royal residence in Sanhe Town was Chen Yucheng’s military headquarters, not a place of elegant pavilions and luxurious halls. Separated from the council chamber by only one courtyard was the inner residence. The inner residence was divided into two sections – for security convenience, the first section was where Chen Yucheng and his wife lived, with the quarters for maids and servants at the very back.

“The Princess is in the left side chamber. Young Master Gu, you can enter directly without announcement.”

“Good, thank you for your trouble.” Gu Pingyuan knocked on the door knocker with his hand. No one answered from inside, so he gently pushed with his hand. The door opened at his touch, and looking up he saw a beautiful woman wearing a phoenix-head hairpin, jade ornaments, and a golden silk-bordered floor-length gown sitting in the main hall. On the table was a brocade robe, and she held needle and thread, doing needlework. Hearing the door open, she didn’t even lift her head to look.

What Gu Pingyuan hadn’t expected was that four maids stood beside Bai Yimei with their hands at their sides.

“She doesn’t want to see me alone.” This thought flashed through Gu Pingyuan’s mind.

“Are you… well?”

The last time they met at the royal residence, Gu Pingyuan’s first words had been the same question. At that time, Bai Yimei had answered: “Well or unwell, there’s no difference.”

However, this time Bai Yimei continued with her needlework, smiling as she replied: “The King treats me very well, so naturally I’m very well.”

With just one sentence, Gu Pingyuan didn’t know how to continue. He had never felt at a loss for words when facing fierce Mongol warriors or cunning and treacherous merchant supervisors, but now he truly didn’t know how to speak. If there was anyone in the world who could render Gu Pingyuan speechless like a confused youth with just a casual remark, it was only Bai Yimei before him.

Seeing Gu Pingyuan’s silence, Bai Yimei finally looked at him. Her gaze held no longing, no memories – it was like greeting a familiar neighbor.

“You said you have urgent matters, so speak quickly. In a while I still need to personally mend the King’s battle robe. The fighting outside Hefei city is intense. What I can do for him as a woman is nothing more than this. I only hope heaven will bless the King to turn danger into safety and return victorious soon to reunite with me.”

“You don’t need to say such things. I know you’re saying them deliberately for me to hear.” Gu Pingyuan said with slight anger.

“How strange – isn’t it only natural for me to worry about my husband? Besides, I never intended to say such things to you. When we last met, I spoke very clearly – we would never meet again. Why have you come looking for me again?” Bai Yimei said unhurriedly.

Gu Pingyuan’s mind heated up and he couldn’t help blurting out: “What about the bond between us two? Even if now you’ve married and I’ve wed, each with our own fate, does that mean the affection from childhood to adulthood is completely written off?”

“You’ve married?” Bai Yimei was startled, her hand trembled, and the needle pierced her finger. A drop of blood welled up from her fingertip. The maids quickly came over with a white silk cloth to wipe it, wanting to arrange for a doctor, but Bai Yimei waved her hand gently: “You all go out.”

After the maids had all withdrawn, Bai Yimei looked Gu Pingyuan up and down as if checking whether he was lying: “When did this happen? How could the betrothal and wedding happen so quickly? Which family’s young lady did you marry?”

Gu Pingyuan was still angry and sneered: “What business is it of yours? I marry my own wife – why should you personally inquire about it!”

Bai Yimei seemed to have anticipated Gu Pingyuan would answer this way. She didn’t get angry but said in a gentle tone: “You are my father’s prize student. What he cared about most in his life was you. Now I’m asking on behalf of the old man – surely that’s not forbidden?”

Gu Pingyuan found himself at a disadvantage in several exchanges, so he answered directly: “She’s a woman who would risk her life to save me.”

“Oh.” Bai Yimei seemed very surprised and pondered briefly: “I remember now – you mentioned her before. Could it be that daughter of the Chang family from Shanxi?”

“Yes, it’s Chang Yu’er. She’s my wife now.”

“So you’re saying you married her out of gratitude?” Bai Yimei asked probingly.

Gu Pingyuan was stunned by the question, but immediately countered: “Hmph, I think you’re the one who married Chen Yucheng out of gratitude.”

Bai Yimei’s expression changed slightly, and she bit her lower lip, saying nothing more.

The atmosphere became somewhat tense. After all, Gu Pingyuan found it difficult to harden his heart toward Bai Yimei, so he softened his tone: “The Taipings are rebels after all. Following Chen Yucheng like this isn’t a long-term solution for you.”

“What are you saying!” Bai Yimei’s face turned cold. “Gu Pingyuan, since I married Chen Yucheng, I am his person. What do you mean by saying this?”

Gu Pingyuan was startled and realized his words were indeed problematic – no wonder Bai Yimei misunderstood.

“I’m not asking you to leave Chen Yucheng, much less asking you to… I want to find another path for you both.”

This sudden inspiration of Gu Pingyuan’s had taken shape in the military camp below Dashu Mountain. Having thought it over repeatedly along the way, he could now speak eloquently about it. He wanted Chen Yucheng to surrender to the court at this very moment, bringing along his hundred thousand troops to be entirely absorbed by the court.

Hefei was the thoroughfare between the Jiangnan and Jiangbei great camps and the capital Zhili. If the Taipings captured Hefei, it would be like inserting a knife into the Qing court’s throat, seizing the greatest military initiative. So Gu Pingyuan said this was the most favorable opportunity – if Chen Yucheng negotiated surrender with the court now, he could truly have whatever he wanted. This was the so-called “treaty under the city walls” – victors could always obtain the most favorable terms. From a distant example, the Chanyuan Alliance of the Northern Song dynasty forced tribute and vassalage to the Liao state, with the sixteen Yan-Yun prefectures still held by Liao. From a recent example, three years ago when Anglo-French forces entered Beijing, Prince Gong signed the Treaty of Beijing with Britain and France, compensating nearly twenty million taels of silver and allowing missionary work in China. Even Tianjin, the maritime gateway to the capital, became a treaty port.

“These were all terms the court absolutely could not agree to before. Why were they all signed at once? Wasn’t it because Anglo-French armies occupied Beijing? This is what’s called a treaty under city walls – whether you agree or not, you must agree. The current situation is exactly like this. Chen Yucheng has already secured the best opportunity to surrender to the court. Whatever conditions he proposes now, the court can only negotiate with him – they absolutely won’t reject him outright.” Gu Pingyuan spoke until his mouth was dry, picked up a cup of tea from the table and drained it in one gulp.

He wanted to continue analyzing the pros and cons, when he suddenly heard Bai Yimei sigh faintly: “Stop talking.”

“What?” Gu Pingyuan was stunned.

“I understand why you’ve come here. You want me to persuade the King to surrender to the Qing court.”

“Yes. Given the current situation, if Chen Yucheng surrenders, it would both preserve Hefei and remove one of Hong Xiuquan’s arms. The court could truly reward him with a noble title, and you wouldn’t be a rebel but would become a first-rank noble lady.”

“This is the path you’ve devised for me?” Bai Yimei looked quietly at Gu Pingyuan.

“Yes! I’ve been constantly considering how to free you from rebel status. Don’t think that because you’re a princess today, when the Taipings fall, though the world is vast, there’ll be nowhere to hide you. You’ll have to go with Chen Yucheng to…” Gu Pingyuan suddenly stopped himself.

Bai Yimei laughed coldly: “You can’t bring yourself to say it. Let me finish for you – to the execution ground together, right?”

“Now that’s no longer necessary…”

“Indeed, it’s no longer necessary.” Bai Yimei cut him off before he could finish. “You should go. My affairs don’t need your concern. Since you’ve married a wife, she’s the woman worthy of your care.” With that, she stood up, clearly dismissing him.

Gu Pingyuan was blocked by her icy tone and couldn’t speak. His heart filled with bitter anger, he suddenly roared: “If not for your safety, for teacher’s dying wish, would I have kept this life to run back to Huizhou? Do you know what conditions I agreed to with the court? Do you know where my mother, younger brother and sister are now?”

His outburst startled Bai Yimei too. In her memory, Gu Pingyuan had never spoken to her so harshly. Seeing a young maid peek her head out at the window upon hearing the commotion, she said sharply: “All of you go to the main room. Don’t come in without my word.”

Gu Pingyuan still stood there fuming. Bai Yimei softened her tone and asked: “What are you talking about? I don’t understand any of it.”

“Fine, I’ll tell you.” Gu Pingyuan hadn’t originally planned to tell Bai Yimei about this. As long as he could get Chen Yucheng to surrender to the Qing court, his purpose would be achieved. Things like using Bai Yimei as bait, capturing Chen Yucheng – he wouldn’t do these things anyway, so he simply wouldn’t mention them. But this meeting at Sanhe Town made him realize it was all wishful thinking on his part. Bai Yimei wasn’t of one mind with him and wouldn’t persuade Chen Yucheng to surrender. In his urgency, Gu Pingyuan decided to tell her everything that had happened.

Only then did Bai Yimei learn that Gu Pingyuan had once again narrowly escaped death. Her gaze involuntarily softened, with a trace of tenderness as she looked at this childhood sweetheart of hers.

“According to what you’re saying, if you don’t do as the court wishes, even your mother and the others won’t escape disaster?”

“It’s guilt by association – they’re essentially treating my Gu family as Taiping rebel associates.” Gu Pingyuan shook his head. “I can’t understand why you won’t listen to my advice, why you insist on following Chen Yucheng as a Taiping. The path I’ve pointed out for you is clearly viable – why won’t you take it?” As he spoke, Gu Pingyuan became agitated again.

Without realizing it, Gu Pingyuan’s tone had become harsh. Bai Yimei felt very uncomfortable hearing this and said with a cold laugh: “Find a way out for my husband? Well, thank you very much, but the King is a hero who doesn’t need anyone to point out a path for him. He can forge his own way.”

Gu Pingyuan was amazed to hear this: “I don’t want to argue with you. Don’t think that because Chen Yucheng has surrounded Hefei, it’s more than a local advantage. Looking at the whole country, the court has already gained the upper hand. The Taipings can’t win – this is probably Chen Yucheng’s last chance.”

Bai Yimei had originally thought she’d severed this emotional bond and no longer thought of Gu Pingyuan in that way, but hearing that he’d married caused an inexplicable irritation in her heart. No matter how good Gu Pingyuan’s suggestion might be, she didn’t want to hear it, though she couldn’t voice this reason: “I know what kind of person the King is. Even if everyone in the Heavenly Kingdom surrendered to the court, he wouldn’t surrender. For him to surrender, unless…”

“Unless what?” Gu Pingyuan thought to himself: whatever you can name, no matter how difficult, I’ll do it.

“Unless the Heavenly King orders him to surrender – only then would he surrender!”

Hong Xiuquan! Gu Pingyuan angrily stamped his foot. Wasn’t this a pipe dream? But based on Gu Pingyuan’s previous interactions with Chen Yucheng, he knew Bai Yimei was right – getting Chen Yucheng to surrender would indeed be as difficult as ascending to heaven.

When the best strategy failed, he retreated to the next best option. Gu Pingyuan brought up the matters Qiao Henian had asked him to investigate. He spoke very tactfully, but Bai Yimei’s face turned cold once again.

“Why are you asking about these things? Never mind that I don’t know – even if I did, could I tell you? Once you’ve found out, wouldn’t you go inform the government, and then the government troops would use this information against the King’s armies?”

“The distinction between loyalty and treason must be clear…” Gu Pingyuan tried to persuade her further, but was cut off by Bai Yimei.

“I think the one who can’t distinguish clearly is you. What is loyalty? I’m now the English King’s consort, a person of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. Naturally I must be loyal to the Heavenly Kingdom, loyal to the King. You don’t expect me to be loyal to the court and then help the court kill my husband, do you?”

Though Gu Pingyuan considered himself quite eloquent, these few sentences left him speechless on the spot.

The room fell silent again. Gu Pingyuan remembered how in the red pine forest, Bai Yimei had said, “When a woman marries, she follows her husband. From now on I am a person of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, and you are of the Qing Dynasty. We should never meet again.” Only today did Gu Pingyuan truly understand that this simple sentence had drawn an enormous chasm between them that could never be crossed.

It turned out she had seen everything clearly from the beginning, while he had never understood. Meeting again only added to their pain without helping anything. Gu Pingyuan smiled bitterly to himself.

The room was silent, and neither knew how to break the silence. After a long while, just as Gu Pingyuan was about to rise and take his leave, he suddenly heard commotion from the courtyard. The sound came from far to near, reaching the door in moments, and then the room door was pushed open.

Bai Yimei had clearly instructed the servants not to enter and angrily raised her eyebrows toward the door, but her face immediately broke into a smile.

“Auntie…” came a childish voice from the doorway. A five or six-year-old boy holding a small ball made of sewn leather had apparently been chasing the ball all the way here.

“It’s little Shan. Come here to Auntie.” Bai Yimei smiled and beckoned, pulling the adorable, chubby child into her arms. She wiped the dirt from his knees with a handkerchief and asked, “Where’s your mother?”

“Mother,” the boy turned toward the door and called.

Only then did Gu Pingyuan notice a young woman standing awkwardly at the door, not daring to enter. Seeing Bai Yimei’s attention on her, she quickly dropped to her knees and called out: “Greetings to the Princess.”

Bai Yimei quickly stood up, walked over and helped the woman to her feet. “Sister-in-law Cheng, why are you being so formal with me? The King has said that he and Brother Cheng are brothers who share life and death. Our relationship should be like sisters-in-law. Right now the two brothers fight side by side, yet you’re being so distant with me. How will I explain to the King when he returns?”

The woman called Sister-in-law Cheng stood up and curtsied again, looking very constrained: “My husband also said that he was previously ignorant and presumptuous, offending the Heavenly Kingdom’s great army. From now on he will serve faithfully without any negligence. My child and I are especially blessed by the Princess’s favor, allowing us to live in the royal residence with such care. How dare we not observe proper hierarchy?” She then scolded the boy: “Little Shan, how many times have I told you not to leave the back courtyard? The Princess is receiving guests – you’ve disturbed her. Apologize to the Princess at once.”

“No need, no need. Sister-in-law Cheng, you’re being even more formal now. When the King left, he repeatedly instructed me to take good care of you both so Brother Cheng could fight without worry. Once this battle is won and Hefei city is taken, the King will surely request merit for Brother Cheng. The Heavenly King is most generous with people – there’ll surely be a royal title then. Sister-in-law Cheng will also have the position of princess. We’ll be equals then, so why be so polite now?”

“May I ask if you are Cheng Xueqi’s wife?” Gu Pingyuan had been listening from the side and suddenly interjected.

Seeing this was the Princess’s guest, Sister-in-law Cheng naturally didn’t dare slight him and quickly nodded: “My husband is indeed Cheng Xueqi.”

“I see.” Gu Pingyuan carefully observed the woman – her gentle features always carried a trace of bitterness, as if she had many worries on her mind.

“Little Shan, come with me quickly. Don’t disturb the Princess’s meeting with her guest.” Sister-in-law Cheng apologized and quickly left with the little boy, closing the door behind her.

“You… truly live up to being Chen Yucheng’s capable wife. While he fights at the front, you help him win hearts and minds at the royal residence.” Gu Pingyuan couldn’t help making a cutting remark.

“This is what I should do.” Bai Yimei said flatly.

“Haha.” Gu Pingyuan didn’t know why he laughed – the laughter carried seven parts resentment and three parts mockery. “Previously I wholeheartedly thought that when the Taipings were defeated, even if I had to sacrifice my life and property, I would somehow save you. Now I’m afraid I was wrong. When the Taipings succeed, I’ll have to beg Your Highness the Princess to spare the lives of my family.”

Hearing these words, Bai Yimei’s body swayed slightly. This was the first time Gu Pingyuan had addressed her as “Princess,” and though she thought she didn’t care, actually hearing these two words from Gu Pingyuan’s mouth was as unbearable as an arrow shot to the heart.

The two stared at each other like this for a long moment. Finally, Bai Yimei wearily pointed to the table where the brocade pouch Gu Pingyuan had sent in was placed: “You should go. Either take this brocade pouch with you or leave it here – it doesn’t matter.”

“Doesn’t matter?” Gu Pingyuan’s heart clenched sharply. Thinking of all the suffering he’d endured beyond the pass to protect what was in that pouch, he wanted to grab it and smash it to pieces on the ground. But as he pressed his hand on the pouch, veins stood out on the back of his hand. After flexing his fingers several times, he finally slowly released his grip.

“Take care of yourself.” Gu Pingyuan quietly left these words, pushed open the door and walked out.

He came to the courtyard, which was quiet and empty. Apparently those maids and servants didn’t dare disobey orders and had all gathered in the main room. Just as Gu Pingyuan was about to step toward the front hall, he suddenly heard children’s laughter from the innermost courtyard – it was the child called “Little Shan” from before.

“Cheng Xueqi’s son…” Gu Pingyuan was thoughtful, then suddenly turned back toward the rear courtyard.

Sister-in-law Cheng was watching her child play with the ball when she suddenly noticed a man approaching. Looking closer, she saw it was the young man from the Princess’s room earlier. Though his face was kind, his steps were urgent, and strangely he seemed to be heading straight for her.

Gu Pingyuan bowed deeply: “Sister-in-law Cheng, I am Gu Pingyuan from She County. Forgive my rudeness in our first meeting.”

Sister-in-law Cheng was flustered and quickly stepped aside: “Master Gu, why such formality? May I ask what brings you here?”

Gu Pingyuan had made up his mind and spoke directly: “Sister-in-law Cheng, the matter is urgent and this isn’t the place for long conversations, so I’ll speak plainly. Does Cheng Xueqi truly want to follow the Taipings in rebelling against the court?”

With just one sentence, Sister-in-law Cheng’s body trembled and her eyes filled with fear as she looked at Gu Pingyuan: “You… why do you ask this? I’m just a housewife – how would I know such things?”

Gu Pingyuan had just been observing her expression and noticed the worry hidden in her brow, which gave him the boldness to ask. Now seeing her reaction, he was even more certain his guess was correct.

“Sister-in-law, don’t worry. I’m not sent by the Taipings to test you. I just want to…” His voice was already low, but now he lowered it further: “Brother Cheng is exceptionally talented. I can’t bear to see him become a rebel bandit through one mistaken thought. I plan to persuade him to surrender to the righteous cause. What does Sister-in-law Cheng think?”

Words alone carried no proof. When Gu Pingyuan said he wasn’t a Taiping, how could Sister-in-law Cheng dare believe him? One wrong word meant the difference between life and death.

Seeing her face full of suspicion and fear, though Gu Pingyuan was anxious inside, he had to slow his tone: “Why did Brother Cheng, who was doing well protecting his territory in Suzhou, join the Taipings?”

“You don’t know?” Sister-in-law Cheng was startled, but her expression softened considerably. “You really don’t know?”

“I won’t hide it from you, sister-in-law. I’ve been in the capital for the past half year and only returned to Anhui a few days ago. My information is really out of date.”

“It seems you really aren’t a Taiping, otherwise you wouldn’t ask such a question.”

“I’m a good friend of She County Magistrate Qiao Henian – I have connections in official circles, so Sister-in-law Cheng can be at ease.” Gu Pingyuan spoke sincerely. “Early this year, someone helped rescue a group of Hangzhou refugees from Taiping hands – I assisted Magistrate Qiao in that matter. Sister-in-law must have heard of it.”

This matter was known throughout Anhui. Sister-in-law Cheng hadn’t expected it was the young man before her who deserved credit for it. She looked him up and down again and asked: “Then how did you come to the English King’s residence?”

This was truly a long story! Gu Pingyuan had no time to detail his past with Bai Yimei, so he simply said: “I came on behalf of the court to persuade Chen Yucheng to surrender. I won’t hide it from Sister-in-law Cheng – the mission wasn’t successful, though this was expected since he’s followed Hong Xiuquan for over ten years. But Brother Cheng is different – there’s no need to tie his life and fortune to the Taipings. Rebellion is no easy matter. Not only would he lose his head, but his whole family would be implicated and the entire household would suffer.” He glanced at little Shan playing nearby.

These words touched Sister-in-law Cheng’s heart and her eyes reddened: “Master Gu, you’ve really spoken to my heart. It’s just that he was pushed too hard back then and nearly went mad with anger. No matter how I tried to persuade him, he wouldn’t listen. Now we’re in this situation – it’s truly like riding a tiger, unable to dismount.”

Hearing “pushed too hard,” Gu Pingyuan immediately remembered that Qiao Henian had also mentioned that Cheng Xueqi was forced into rebellion. He blamed himself for not asking for details then – otherwise he’d have good material to work with now. It was too late for regrets, so Gu Pingyuan stopped thinking about it and said urgently: “Since Sister-in-law Cheng understands the greater good, could you give me a token so I can persuade Brother Cheng? If I can convince Brother Cheng to change his mind, not only will the court not blame him, but he’ll get a good position. Then he’ll be ennobled and his wife and son will be honored – wouldn’t that be a hundred times better than rebelling with the Taipings?”

Sister-in-law Cheng seemed to be a decisive woman. After brief consideration, she beckoned her son over and said: “I have nothing on me. Take this child’s longevity lock – my husband will recognize it immediately.” She removed a jade lock from little Shan’s neck. As Gu Pingyuan reached to take it, Sister-in-law Cheng was about to kneel: “Master Gu, I entrust my family’s lives to you.”

Gu Pingyuan quickly reached out to support her: “You mustn’t – someone might see. Sister-in-law Cheng, I must go now.”

He tucked the jade lock into his robe and turned to leave. At the round moon gate of the courtyard, he looked back once. Sister-in-law Cheng stood in the courtyard holding little Shan, the mother and son looking forlornly at Gu Pingyuan, appearing isolated and helpless.

Gu Pingyuan nodded as farewell. To reach the front, he still had to pass through the second courtyard. When he reached the courtyard, he suddenly heard voices from the left side chamber where he’d been earlier.

“Sister Song.” It was Bai Yimei’s voice.

“Princess, please give your orders.” The respondent was the servant woman who had led him in.

Bai Yimei called out but then said nothing more. Gu Pingyuan couldn’t help stopping to listen. After a long while, Bai Yimei finally said in a low voice: “Tomorrow go to town and find a goldsmith. Use gold to mend this broken jade hairpin from the brocade pouch.”

Gu Pingyuan’s mind roared. He didn’t hear Sister Song’s response. He walked quickly to the door and reached out to push it, but his hand seemed held back by something and couldn’t move. Finally, he sighed deeply and strode away.

Bai Yimei in the room also heard his sigh. She sat in a daze, her gaze fixed on the brocade pouch, staring at it for a long time as if nothing else in the world mattered.

For persuading Chen Yucheng to surrender, Gu Pingyuan needn’t consult anyone – Chen Yucheng would negotiate terms with the court himself when the time came. But Cheng Xueqi was different. This matter required careful handling and definite promises of rewards, or it wouldn’t be compelling enough. Though Qiao Henian was merely a She County magistrate with sixth-rank status, he now presided over provincial military and civil affairs. This matter had to be discussed with him first.

“I heard from Cheng Xueqi’s wife that he was forced to join the Taipings against his will. Is this true?”

“It’s true.” After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s account, Qiao Henian said thoughtfully: “This was a foolish act by a stupid person. Since it’s come to this, there was no need to say more, but since you’ve asked, I’ll tell you.”

The fool Qiao Henian referred to was none other than Governor Yuan Jiasan. Originally, Anhui had three forces: Yuan Jiasan’s Qing government troops, Chen Yucheng’s Taiping army, and bandit king Miao Peilin’s forces. The Qing and Taiping forces were evenly matched, while Miao Peilin was slightly weaker. Given this situation, whoever could win over Cheng Xueqi’s forces would immediately gain superiority over their enemies. So people visited Cheng Xueqi constantly trying to win him over, but he followed his mother’s instructions, kept his mouth shut, and insisted on helping neither side, only defending his homeland in Suzhou. Over time, both government troops and Taipings grew discouraged and stopped trying to recruit Cheng Xueqi.

This could have continued peacefully. With Yuan Jiasan’s capabilities, he never planned to completely defeat Chen Yucheng, only hoping to face off across the river without disturbing each other. But then the Grand Council received urgent reports from Zeng Guoquan at the Jiangnan Great Camp, saying Hong Xiuquan’s Tianjing was under siege and ordering the loyal King Li Xiucheng, who was fighting elsewhere, to return with his army for relief. Li Xiucheng was indeed both wise and brave, managing to break through and lead his troops into Tianjing. Zeng Guoquan worried that similar orders must have been sent to Chen Yucheng, and if Chen Yucheng also returned to relieve Tianjing, cooperating with Li Xiucheng from inside and outside, Zeng Guoquan really had no confidence in handling these two brave generals. So he urgently notified the Grand Council that Yuan Jiasan absolutely couldn’t let Chen Yucheng leave easily – even if he couldn’t stop him, he had to eliminate half his forces to reduce pressure on the Jiangnan Great Camp.

When Yuan Jiasan received the imperial edict from the Grand Council, he was immediately overwhelmed. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to fight Chen Yucheng – the man’s prowess was obvious, and none of his government troops dared face him in battle. Whether Eight Banner or Green Standard troops, they fled at the sight of “Four-eyed Dog” Chen Yucheng’s banner. These men might defend a city, but fight in open battle? If they really opened the city gates and charged out, whether those gates could be closed again was questionable. But the Grand Council urged him three times daily to send troops, leaving Yuan Jiasan deeply troubled.

Though outsiders saw Governor Yuan Jiasan as lacking in talent and prestige, far inferior to men like Zeng Guofan and Zuo Zongtang, he controlled personnel promotions throughout the province and was absolute authority in Anhui. When he worried, naturally those seeking to curry favor came to offer plans.

The suggested plan wasn’t bad – recruit Cheng Xueqi of Suzhou and incorporate his ten thousand plus troops as government forces. These ten thousand men were extremely capable fighters who knew the terrain well – used properly, they could be worth ten times their number. Yuan Jiasan agreed to this plan, but remembering Cheng Xueqi’s past attitude, he believed that sending people to negotiate politely would surely be rejected again. Hearing that Cheng Xueqi was very filial to his mother, he decided to use Cao Cao’s method against Xu Shu – send a squad of government troops to “invite” Old Mrs. Cheng, Cheng Xueqi’s mother, to the provincial capital. It was called an invitation, but it was really kidnapping. With the old lady in hand, he needn’t worry about Cheng Xueqi not submitting.

This was the way of heroes controlling subordinates, not something ordinary people could handle, and naturally it went wrong. The squad sent to Suzhou made a night raid on Cheng Xueqi’s ancestral home and kidnapped Old Mrs. Cheng, but they couldn’t resist the Cheng family’s wealth and looted everything before returning to the provincial capital. This delay allowed Cheng Xueqi, who was training troops elsewhere, to receive word. Like Liu Chenxiang splitting the mountain to save his mother, he desperately led light cavalry in pursuit, catching up with the Green Standard troops less than forty li from the provincial capital. In the fierce battle that followed, he killed every last one and rescued his mother, though Old Mrs. Cheng was slightly injured but not seriously.

This really stirred up a hornet’s nest. Cheng Xueqi was furious, pointing at Hefei city and cursing extensively. No one could stop him, and he finally led all his men to join the Taipings.

For Chen Yucheng, this was heaven’s help. He’d originally planned to capture Hefei and cut off reinforcement routes from Zhili and Shandong, eliminating his rear concerns so he could confidently return to save the Heavenly King. But with only Huang Wenjin capable of independent command, he’d been unable to launch his attack. Now with Cheng Xueqi’s arrival, Chen Yucheng was overjoyed and immediately convened a war council to plan the assault on Hefei.

“Tell me, isn’t this holding the sword by the blade and handing the handle to the enemy? They pushed such a capable general as Cheng Xueqi right into Taiping hands.” Qiao Henian finished speaking and spread his hands helplessly.

“In my view, the Cheng family doesn’t willingly want to become Taipings. They’ve been rural gentry for generations – how could they willingly rebel against the court? This is just Cheng Xueqi’s momentary impulse and might not be irreversible.” Gu Pingyuan produced the longevity lock and placed it on the desk.

“Though what you say makes sense, Cheng Xueqi isn’t easy to deal with. Whoever represents the government troops in persuading him to surrender would be walking into a hornet’s nest. If he glares and loses his temper, one’s life would be forfeit.” Secretary Hao said thoughtfully.

“I’ll go.” Qiao Henian suddenly said.

This was shocking. Secretary Hao immediately objected: “That won’t do. Right now everything depends on Magistrate Qiao commanding the great camp. Throughout Anhui Province, you’re the only official maintaining order. How can you risk going to such a dangerous place?”

“Brother Hao is right. Magistrate Qiao cannot go.”

“But we need someone with official status to go, otherwise it won’t be credible.” Qiao Henian glanced outside the tent and smiled bitterly: “That crowd of officials out there wouldn’t be gathered under my command if they had anywhere else to go. If I assigned a lucrative position like requisitioning grain and supplies, they’d all fight for it. But for dangerous work like this that could cost one’s head, there’s truly no one to send.”

“If you trust me, sir, let me go.” Secretary Hao made his decision.

“You?”

“I do have ninth-rank official status, and having received such kindness from Magistrate Qiao, now is the time to repay it.” Secretary Hao’s face had lost its usual humor as he spoke with grave dignity.

“Teacher Hao…” Qiao Henian rose from his seat and grasped Secretary Hao’s arm, momentarily too moved to speak.

“That won’t work.” Gu Pingyuan suddenly spoke.

“You think Teacher Hao’s plan won’t work?”

“No, I mean it won’t work for him to go empty-handed to Cheng Xueqi’s camp to persuade surrender.” Gu Pingyuan had clearly thought this through carefully. “Cheng Xueqi joined the Taipings because of harsh treatment by officials. If we want to win him back, we must show sincere remorse, or we won’t gain his trust.”

“What form should this sincerity take, in your opinion?”

“Three conditions. First, regardless of how many government troops he helped the Taipings kill before, from the moment he accepts court amnesty, Cheng Xueqi and all his followers will be pardoned of all crimes.”

“That’s no problem. Amnesty naturally means letting bygones be bygones – it’s done everywhere.” Qiao Henian nodded.

“Second, he must be given official rank. Brother Hao, for bringing ten thousand men over, what rank should he receive?”

“Well.” Secretary Hao thought about it. “Take General Chen Guorui under Prince Senggelinqin – he also switched sides with his troops, about five or six thousand men. He was first given fourth-rank youji rank, then after several battles was promoted to third-rank canjiang, and now he’s a general too.”

“Without good bait, you can’t catch big fish. To recruit Cheng Xueqi, he should at least be made a canjiang.” Gu Pingyuan said with certainty.

“This…” Qiao Henian was troubled. He was only a sixth-rank official himself, yet he was promising someone third-rank status – this was difficult.

“Sir, this requires decisive action or nothing can be accomplished.” Secretary Hao advised from the side.

“Very well, I’ll answer for Governor Yuan. With Hefei in immediate danger and no communication between inside and outside the city, I believe the Governor won’t blame me for overstepping my authority.”

“Since that’s settled, there’s a third requirement.” Gu Pingyuan held up three fingers. “The saying goes ‘promotion and wealth go together.’ To have Cheng Xueqi and his men ‘rebel’ once more, we must consider the benefits for his subordinates – at least three months of gratitude pay. At five taels of silver per month, that would require 150,000 taels of silver.”

“150,000 taels – so much!” Qiao Henian was shocked.

Gu Pingyuan wasn’t finished: “Moreover, since it’s amnesty, they can’t continue wearing Taiping colors but must be issued proper military uniforms with unit insignia. Then there’s provisions – men and horses need to eat every meal. Without proper preparation, how can it work? For ten thousand men’s clothing, food, and supplies, this would cost at least 100,000 taels at minimum. Add gifts for Cheng Xueqi’s various officers, plus military pay – altogether, this matter can’t be accomplished without 300,000 taels.”

Qiao Henian and Secretary Hao looked at each other speechlessly. After a long moment, they spoke: “Brother Pingyuan, while you were at Sanhe Town, I had Teacher Hao help me review the accounts. Currently we have less than 50,000 taels remaining. As you mentioned, the officers and soldiers under my command also need to eat, drink, and receive pay. Never mind that we don’t have 300,000 taels – even if we had exactly that amount, we couldn’t give it all to Cheng Xueqi. If the Eight Banner and Green Standard troops learned of this, they’d surely mutiny.”

Even a penny can stump a hero, let alone three hundred thousand taels of silver. The three men couldn’t help but be troubled, thinking from near noon until sunset without coming up with any good ideas.

Qiao Henian shook his head: “How can we possibly scrape together three hundred thousand taels of silver? This isn’t magic tricks. Forget it, let’s eat first. Brother Pingyuan, Teacher Hao, you’ve both traveled far and I haven’t properly welcomed you yet. Tonight I’ve ordered the camp cooks to prepare several good dishes so we can have a proper chat.”

When the food was served, Gu Pingyuan realized this meal was indeed not easy to prepare, especially in the current chaotic wartime conditions. Though they didn’t have the “marsh turtle on sandy ground, wildcat tail in snowy weather” that Emperor Huizong of Song had praised so highly, all the famous Huizhou dishes were present: steamed stone chicken, Wenzheng mountain bamboo shoots, stinky mandarin fish, green snail stewed duck, and tiger-skin tofu. It was clear Qiao Henian had put considerable thought into this.

“Master, this is truly overwhelming.” Secretary Hao was a gourmet who broke into smiles at the first whiff of aroma, repeatedly raising his cup to thank Qiao Henian.

“Not at all. Teacher Hao has traveled a long way, and Brother Pingyuan has narrowly escaped death. This meal serves both as a welcome feast and to calm your nerves. It’s just that drinking isn’t permitted in the military camp, so we’ll substitute tea for wine.” Qiao Henian smiled with restraint.

After three rounds of toasts, Qiao Henian ordered someone to bring out a “first-grade hot pot,” saying with a smile: “Teacher Hao is truly blessed. Now that I’m temporarily managing provincial military and civil affairs, those expectant officials are setting their sights on me, desperately currying favor to secure good positions. Hey, just as the sun rose today, someone eagerly sent over this ‘first-grade hot pot.’ The ingredients are all top-quality delicacies from land and sea, rarely seen ordinarily, yet here we can enjoy them in a military camp.”

“Indeed, indeed.” Secretary Hao was knowledgeable – seeing the sea cucumbers swollen like fists and shark fins developed crystal-clear as jade, he drooled and nodded repeatedly.

Just as he was about to take a chopstick-full, the tent flap was suddenly thrown open and a cold wind blew in, startling everyone.

“Hmph! While my brothers and I gnaw on tough beef and drink cold water outside, you bastards are hiding in here feasting and drinking. Give me some too!” The intruder was a sergeant from the Eight Banner troops – one look at his crooked eyes and slanted eyebrows showed he was an old veteran soldier.

Hearing his continuous cursing, Qiao Henian flew into a rage, stood up and shouted: “You reek of alcohol yet dare claim you’re drinking cold water! Breaking military regulations and still being so arrogant, barging into the command tent to cause trouble. Someone come! Tie him up and send him to the horse pen to sober up.”

This commotion immediately killed everyone’s mood. Actually, Gu Pingyuan couldn’t eat a bite anyway – his heart was troubled thinking about himself feasting here while the city was about to run out of grain, not knowing what his mother and siblings were eating. He was only staying out of courtesy to Qiao Henian and Secretary Hao, so when this disturbance occurred, he took the opportunity to set down his cup: “Magistrate Qiao, I’ve been thinking – the grain in the city probably only lasts ten more days. If we break the siege, we’ll immediately need large supplies of grain. How should we handle this?”

“Brother Pingyuan, don’t say any more. I can’t even produce the silver to recruit Cheng Xueqi, yet you want me to think three steps ahead. Though I haven’t drunk wine, my head already aches terribly.” Qiao Henian frowned tightly, shaking his head repeatedly.

“I have an idea – would you consider it feasible, sir?”

“Whether it’s feasible or not, Brother Gu, just speak up so we can all deliberate together.” Secretary Hao urged.

“The government could issue a notice to buy grain on credit from the people first. Huizhou has many wealthy households with several years’ worth of stored grain – it’s not unusual. As long as the price offers more profit than market grain prices, they might take out their grain.”

Qiao Henian thought while asking: “What about military pay?”

“I’ll provide it.”

“You?”

Once Gu Pingyuan spoke these words, he drew surprised looks from both men.

“Brother Gu, don’t joke around. Your silver has dried up like a riverbed. Never mind three hundred thousand taels – you don’t even have three thousand.” Secretary Hao shook his head in disbelief.

“I do have it, just not in my hands.” Through Gu Pingyuan’s Orchid Snow tea partnership with Tailai Tea House, both parties shared profits. “Now that Elder Hu has taken the tea back to Huizhou, regardless of whether it’s sold, I can ask the old gentleman to advance me the money at current prices. Any shortfall can be settled in the next tea season.”

“Brother Pingyuan, you’re using your own silver to pay government troops.” Qiao Henian was deeply moved. “In that case, the government can’t let you suffer losses. We’ll follow the market interest rates between money houses and repay principal plus interest in full later.”

“That would add a full one and a half percent more interest, and people would surely say Magistrate Qiao took kickbacks, damaging your official reputation. In my view, we should use the interest rates for civilian lending. When this matter is reported to Governor Yuan later, he can offer Brother Gu favorable terms in any business deal – that’s where the benefit lies.” Secretary Hao suggested.

This was a deeply calculated approach, and both Qiao and Gu nodded repeatedly.

“I’ll immediately issue a directive appointing Chen Yongqing as camp procurement officer to handle this matter specifically.” Qiao Henian instructed Kang Qi to prepare ink.

“Chen Yongqing?” Gu Pingyuan hadn’t heard this name, and Secretary Hao didn’t know this person either.

“He’s an expectant prefectural or county official – the one who sent that ‘first-grade hot pot.'” Qiao Henian smiled. “This man rose through donation, has little learning, just mediocre through and through. Appointing him to this task serves to balance things out. Chen Yongqing is honest but useless, merely a figurehead. Though the task is assigned to him, Brother Pingyuan will actually handle the work. Give him his due share and he absolutely won’t interfere with you.” Qiao Henian spoke clearly.

“Did you hear that?” After leaving the command tent, Secretary Hao winked at Gu Pingyuan. “My master’s skills as an official have greatly improved.”

“How so?”

“He could have assigned this task to me, or to a clerical officer from She County, yet he appointed the unrelated Chen Yongqing. Why? Because he fears people saying he favors cronies and profits from it. Magistrate Qiao’s eyes aren’t focused on a few taels of silver – his ambitions are considerable.”

When they met Chen Yongqing, never mind Secretary Hao – even Gu Pingyuan nearly burst out laughing.

This man was truly slovenly. His black satin official boots had a hole with white socks showing through, his court robe was missing two toggles and hung half-open. Having received advance notice, he immediately performed the horseshoe sleeve gesture for a grand salute upon seeing Secretary Hao.

“This won’t do.” Secretary Hao reached out to stop him. “I’m two ranks below you, sir. Why would you bow to me?”

“Well, this isn’t… this isn’t…” Chen Yongqing stammered for a long time before managing: “You’re the secretary valued by Magistrate Qiao. How dare I put on airs before you? I’ll need your continued care in the future.” The words were fine up to this point, but the next sentence was hilarious: “I figure even when beating a dog, you must consider the master. By greeting you, I’m also thanking Magistrate Qiao.”

Before he finished speaking, a row of guards collapsed with laughter, and Gu Pingyuan couldn’t hold back either, laughing heartily.

Only then did Secretary Hao realize this man was extremely ignorant. Rather than argue with him, he chuckled and teased: “Master Chen speaks well, and your teeth are quite good too – pity they’re not ivory.”

“If they were ivory, I’d be rich!” Chen Yongqing completely missed Secretary Hao’s sarcasm, grinning obsequiously.

Gu Pingyuan pulled Secretary Hao aside to discuss. Chen Yongqing was indeed honest but useless, and looked too shabby, lacking official dignity – how could he inspire trust? Since the task was already assigned, they couldn’t change personnel, only clothes. Secretary Hao arranged to borrow him a brand-new set of official robes and boots, had someone re-braid his frayed queue and oil it with osmanthus oil. Most remarkably, they procured a pair of dark crystal spectacles – newfangled foreign goods fashionable even in Shanghai, virtually unseen in Huizhou. A clerk sent to Shanghai for procurement had bought them to show off, and Secretary Hao borrowed them too. Once fully dressed up, Chen Yongqing stood at the camp gate while Secretary Hao looked smugly at Gu Pingyuan, as if to say “How about that? Who could tell he’s a bumpkin now?”

Gu Pingyuan also nodded with satisfaction. The spectacles were truly effective, completely hiding Chen Yongqing’s shifty eyes. Being tall, he looked quite imposing.

“There, the puppet on stage is ready. The strings are in your hands offstage, Brother. Whether this can be performed smoothly depends on you – Secretary Hao and Magistrate Qiao await your good news.”

Gu Pingyuan nodded and mounted his horse with Chen Yongqing. Every province had several major grain markets. Anhui’s grain markets were distributed in Bozhou, Wuhu, Chizhou and other places. Calculating distances, Gu Pingyuan decided to go to the grain market in Qingyang County, Chizhou Prefecture.

Knowing Gu Pingyuan was Qiao Henian’s close friend, Chen Yongqing constantly flattered him along the way, repeating the same few complimentary phrases until Gu Pingyuan’s ears nearly grew calluses. He thought to himself that this too was an official, yet inferior to ordinary cart team assistants, and thoroughly despised Chen Yongqing.

Making intermittent conversation, they finally reached Qingyang territory. Chen Yongqing said: “Brother Gu, I’m not flattering you, but for someone so young to be so valued by Magistrate Qiao – your meteoric rise is just around the corner.”

Gu Pingyuan thought that if he revealed his convict status, Chen Yongqing would probably fall off his horse in fright. Not wanting to continue this topic, he pointed ahead: “That city wall ahead must be Qingyang County.”

“Right. Two years ago when I was supervising school construction in a neighboring county, I also visited Qingyang County. That large grain market is indeed the province’s finest. Brother, you have great insight choosing to procure grain here. You must already know which major shops and grain merchants to approach for grain loans. Don’t worry – this trip I’ll follow your lead completely. Though I wear seventh-rank insignia, as long as we can accomplish this task, whoever you want me to negotiate with, I’ll have no second thoughts. Even if you want me to kowtow and bow, that’s fine.”

“Master Chen, with those words, things will be easy. But it’s quite the opposite – if you kowtow and bow, we probably won’t be able to borrow even one shi of grain on this trip.”

“Why is that?”

Gu Pingyuan smiled without explaining.

“Please remember, sir – on this grain procurement trip, we can’t beg people. We must make these grain merchants come begging us.”

“We’re borrowing grain from them, yet they should come begging us?” Chen Yongqing listened as if to a fairy tale.

“Exactly! We’re not borrowing dozens or hundreds of shi – we need over ten thousand shi of grain. Without some tactics, it’s impossible to succeed.”

Chen Yongqing had no ideas of his own and would do whatever Gu Pingyuan said. This honest man had one good quality – he was obedient. Following Gu Pingyuan’s arrangements, upon entering Qingyang County, they exchanged horses for a sedan chair, hiring a large sedan from a sedan house to visit the county magistrate. The magistrate was also trapped in Hefei city, so the deputy magistrate minded the seal. Being one rank below Chen Yongqing anyway, seeing him swagger into the county office in seventh-rank robes, he hurried forward to welcome him.

Chen Yongqing said nothing. Gu Pingyuan now acted as his secretary, also keeping a stern expression, immediately handing over an official document upon meeting. The deputy magistrate took it and was shocked after reading carefully.

“Your Honor, please understand. Even scraping the bottom of our county granary yields only five hundred shi of grain. Where can we possibly find ten thousand shi?” the deputy magistrate said with a bitter face.

“Hmph, asking this question makes it seem like it’s none of your business. Does the Qingyang County seal belong to my master or to the deputy magistrate? The camp has ordered Qingyang County to raise grain. My master is merely here to supervise transport. As for how to raise this grain, you figure it out yourself. If you can’t raise the grain within five days…” Gu Pingyuan deliberately smiled ominously. “Deputy Magistrate, look carefully – this bears the camp’s military seal. If you disobey orders, it’s not just losing your official robes and insignia. Do you still want to keep your head?”

“Ah!” The deputy magistrate immediately knelt upon hearing this, crying about his difficulties and gesturing to heaven and earth.

“Wait, there’s more. To avoid troubling two people with one matter, military uniform procurement will also be handled by Qingyang County. Let me tell you – the provincial capital is currently under siege. If the city falls, the court will surely investigate responsibilities. Can an eighth-rank deputy magistrate bear the crime of delaying military affairs?”

“I cannot, I cannot. But the granary truly has no grain. It’s not that Qingyang County won’t comply – please have mercy and report the true situation to higher authorities.” This deputy magistrate was quite timid, trembling like a sieve and constantly kowtowing.

Seeing he was sufficiently frightened, Gu Pingyuan changed his expression, helped the deputy magistrate up, and said quietly: “Why must your county take this attitude? Everything can be negotiated. My master is most reasonable. As long as the task can be managed and he can report to his superiors, why would he make things difficult for your county?”

“Yes, yes.” Though the deputy magistrate usually dominated common people and was second only to the magistrate in the county, seeing Chen Yongqing who came on official business, he was first intimidated by his manufactured dignity, then had his courage broken by Gu Pingyuan’s few words.

Gu Pingyuan was truly capable – first making the situation seem completely hopeless, then gently pulling back a degree or two. Heavy-handed then light-handed, he manipulated the deputy magistrate into complete submission.

“May I ask the secretary how this task should be handled to satisfy your master? The numbers are simply too far apart.” The deputy magistrate looked helplessly at Chen Yongqing, who sat silently sipping tea behind his dark glasses throughout.

“Speaking of numbers, the gap is indeed enormous. If we follow these numbers, my master can’t report to his superiors, and the deputy magistrate can hardly keep his position.”

“Yes, that’s exactly the difficulty.” The deputy magistrate broke into a sweat again in his anxiety.

“Don’t panic. Though the granary lacks grain, Qingyang is naturally a major grain market. Find several major grain merchants to coordinate their stocks – ten thousand shi is easily manageable. Listen to me and I guarantee you can accomplish this task.” Gu Pingyuan spoke with certainty.

“Oh my, I truly thank you, Secretary.” The deputy magistrate was grateful beyond measure.

“But your county must provide some assistance.”

“Naturally – providing manpower and effort, all at your humble servant’s word.” The deputy magistrate spoke humbly, not caring whether Gu Pingyuan was actually an official.

“Most importantly, you must provide some silver.” Gu Pingyuan added.

The next day, Qingyang County had big news.

The county’s largest inn, “Cloud Rising Inn,” was entirely rented out. Cloud Rising Inn had seven courtyards front and back, with a two-story building in the center. The front courtyard was a large restaurant, while the rest were inn rooms. For accommodation, it could house one to two hundred people. During autumn grain market season, Cloud Rising Inn was often fully booked. But now, all the original guests were “requested” to leave – not for nothing, as unpaid lodging fees were covered and three days’ lodging at new places was provided.

After everyone was cleared out, the Qingyang deputy magistrate personally accompanied a large sedan chair to the inn’s best rooms, arranging three shifts of bailiffs to guard Cloud Rising Inn day and night. Moreover, even the county office’s revenue clerks waited downstairs with abacuses to serve.

Such a grand display, such style – could it be an imperial commissioner had arrived? The common people were naturally curious but inquiries yielded nothing. Only after a day did someone learn from changing bailiffs that a military supply officer from Anhui’s army had come to procure military grain and clothing. Small deals didn’t interest them at all – they spoke of ten thousand shi at once, and cloth orders started at a thousand bolts.

That afternoon an official notice was finally posted. Contrary to everyone’s expectations, it didn’t invite grain and cloth merchants to inquire about prices and examine goods, but sternly warned that unless they had superior quality rice, flour, and cloth with large quantities of current stock, they shouldn’t presume to seek audience with the military supply officer, or they’d be immediately expelled without leniency.

Now the teahouses and wine shops buzzed with discussion, all saying this deal must have great profit, otherwise the military supply officer wouldn’t put on such airs. The kickbacks demanded were probably substantial too.

Businessmen didn’t mind giving kickbacks – after all, what went out came back. They’d raise the prices and naturally have court silver to settle accounts. “Business with officials is like boarding an official ship – no worry about empty bellies.” As long as they did government business, they’d never lose out in the end.

While various grain and cloth merchants were still observing, people were constantly being thrown out of the inn entrance. Grain sacks were tossed on the ground with fine white rice scattered everywhere, and whole bolts of cloth were thrown out too. The bailiffs scolded people fiercely like devils, not letting anyone approach the inn.

Seeing others trying to get ahead, several major grain merchants finally lost patience. Bringing people with grain samples, they submitted name cards at the inn entrance, requesting to see the military supply officer.

After the name cards were submitted, no one came out to respond. They had to wait in the entrance hall. This wait wasn’t brief – a full three hours, with the sun moving halfway across the sky, still no one appeared. The grain merchants dared not leave, fearing this big deal would fall through. When their stomachs growled with hunger and they planned to send subordinates out for food, bailiffs blocked them, saying the military supply officer had ordered that anyone who left couldn’t re-enter.

Fine, they’d continue waiting. They waited until the sun slanted west, when fragrant aromas wafted from Cloud Rising Inn’s front courtyard – the restaurant was cooking. These major grain merchants had never felt so ravenous in their lives, desperately sniffing the food aromas.

Just then, someone came to summon them, ordering the grain merchants to bring their samples inside. This was like receiving amnesty – several men were so hungry their legs wouldn’t move, following the attendant into the inner hall.

“I’m Master Chen’s financial secretary. The master is busy with official duties and has kept you gentlemen waiting – please don’t take offense.” The speaker was naturally Gu Pingyuan. Though his tone was humble, his face carried arrogance, as if he didn’t regard these major grain merchants at all.

Having been left waiting half the day and dizzy with hunger, these men were all angry inside. But “entering a temple, one dares not resent Maitreya” – for this big deal, they swallowed even their greatest grievances.

“Very well, you seek audience with this official – for what purpose?” This line was taught by Gu Pingyuan, agreed upon beforehand. From start to finish, Chen Yongqing only needed to say this one sentence, leaving everything else to Gu Pingyuan.

For what purpose? The grain merchants’ noses nearly twisted with anger. They’d met plenty of officials – county magistrates and prefects weren’t uncommon, usually treating them as honored guests. This official wore seventh-rank colors yet put on airs greater than a governor.

Strangely, the more Chen Yongqing and Gu Pingyuan acted pretentious and affected, the more carefully these grain merchants behaved, not daring to breathe loudly.

They reasoned thus: this official puts on such grand airs, looking like he needs nothing from anyone – he must have stacks of banknotes waiting to choose people to earn profits, otherwise where would such grand bearing come from?

With this preconception, discussing business made them all tremulous with fear, afraid of saying something wrong and angering this financial secretary – not really a secretary, but clearly a god of wealth.

Gu Pingyuan deliberately found fault, either saying the rice color wasn’t pure or the rice fragrance insufficient. When the grain merchants were both hungry and anxious, he changed his tone, expressing that the camp sympathized with merchants’ business difficulties and could lower requirements – all this rice could enter the camp granary.

The grain merchants were all overjoyed, not expecting the cold-faced vajra to suddenly become a kind-hearted bodhisattva. But they also anticipated that Gu Pingyuan’s transformation from winter rain to spring breeze had purpose – next he’d surely discuss substantial kickbacks.

Indeed, Gu Pingyuan coughed and began: “Gentlemen bosses and managers, my master has seen your grain samples. Though not entirely satisfactory, they can be reluctantly accepted. The way of business is nothing but devising ways to make money – sedan chairs are carried by people for people. The master won’t make things difficult for you all, and surely you won’t make the master’s situation difficult either.”

“Secretary, your words are quite profound. We’re just small businessmen with little ink in our bellies – please enlighten us directly.” The lead grain merchant was surnamed Cai. Hearing Gu Pingyuan’s words, he sneered internally. Military grain procurement always had fixed rules – twenty-eighty kickbacks were standard price. Now you’re putting on this big show – at most you want one more percentage point. If you want more than that, it absolutely won’t work. We too have families and employees, a whole group depending on us for their livelihood. If officials are too greedy, we simply won’t do business.

“Fine, I’ll speak plainly – this transaction has no ready silver. It’s on credit.”

This statement greatly shocked the grain merchants. Credit deals weren’t unprecedented, but today’s business was extraordinarily large. Earlier inquiries revealed they wanted as much grain as available, whether coarse rice or fine flour. Several grain merchants could pool together about fifty thousand shi of grain, which this secretary had readily agreed to purchase entirely. They’d wondered why he was so generous – now they learned it was all on credit.

“How can this work? If we loan out all our grain without receiving ready silver, how can we continue business?”

“Right, who knows when the government will settle accounts? If it drags on, won’t we drink the northwest wind?” Two grain merchants immediately objected, while others hesitated, finding the objections reasonable yet reluctant to abandon this big deal.

Some favored the deal: “This is bottom-scraping business. Speaking privately, without large government procurement, some aged grain stocks would be truly hard to sell.”

Both sides argued without resolution, finally deciding to let Grain Merchant Cai make the decision.

Grain Merchant Cai had long forgotten his hunger, focusing entirely on this business. After long consideration, he remained torn – this transaction was simply too large in scale.

“Secretary, since it’s like this, speak plainly – how much premium?” Premium meant kickbacks, just using money house exchange terminology to sound less jarring.

“With such big business, what do you think?” Gu Pingyuan answered with a question.

“Two and a half percent? Three percent?” Grain Merchant Cai guessed twice consecutively, his expression growing darker. “Secretary, we’re also seeking profit from capital. If you want more…”

“One percent.” Gu Pingyuan interrupted him.

“What did you say?” Grain Merchant Cai’s eyes widened. “This is serious business – no joking allowed.”

“No joke. I said one percent, so one percent.” Gu Pingyuan spoke decisively.

Grain Merchant Cai carefully studied Gu Pingyuan’s expression, then silently returned to consult the other grain merchants. Hearing this, everyone was greatly excited. Originally prepared for a seventy-thirty split, now only one percent kickbacks meant essentially earning an extra twenty percent profit. With such large business, twenty percent meant over ten thousand taels of silver!

“Gentlemen, should we do this business or not?” Even Grain Merchant Cai was uncertain – only one percent kickbacks, what medicine was being sold in this gourd?

“Of course we should do it. There’s no logic in refusing a deal with extra profit.”

Indeed so. After repeated consideration, Grain Merchant Cai finally clapped his hands, walked back several steps, and addressed not Gu Pingyuan but Chen Yongqing, who sat silently in the central armchair throughout.

“Master, we’re law-abiding merchants in the grain business. Being able to do business with the government is exactly what we wish for. Since there are no outsiders here, I’ll speak openly. Your secretary says only one percent premium is needed. Usually it’s twenty-eighty kickbacks. With bigger business but smaller kickbacks, please indicate your reasons, Master, so we can set our minds at ease and sincerely serve the court.”

Gu Pingyuan inwardly groaned. This Grain Merchant Cai clearly feared he was playing tricks in the middle, so regardless of business etiquette, he insisted on getting truth from Chen Yongqing’s own mouth. If it were someone else it might be manageable, but this Chen Yongqing was a “five hundred minus half” – wearing dark glasses and sitting steadily looked proper enough, and his official status was real, but once he spoke he’d sound fake. These grain merchants were quite shrewd. Gu Pingyuan had spent enormous effort coaxing them here, but Chen Yongqing could probably scare them all away with just a few words.

But Grain Merchant Cai had already stepped forward regardless, and trying to stop him now would surely make the grain merchants suspicious, ruining this credit deal.