The next day, Gu Pingyuan hitched up a large cart and personally took the reins, bringing his elderly mother and younger siblings back to Huizhou.

Along the way, Gu Yuting chattered excitedly, while Old Mother Gu watched all three children at her side with a face full of loving smiles. When they were nearly at Qiankou Town, Gu Pingyuan took advantage of resting the horses to call his second brother Gu Pingwen aside and whispered a few instructions. Gu Pingwen’s eyes widened with an expression of surprise, excitement, and joy.

“Where is Pingwen?” When they resumed their journey, Gu Pingwen was nowhere to be seen, and Old Mother Gu was puzzled.

“I had him go ahead to Qiankou Town to take care of the shop’s business. After these past months, everything has been left to deteriorate.”

“That’s not urgent for the moment. Our family has finally escaped disaster, and no matter what, we should enter our home and have a reunion dinner first.” Old Mother Gu was somewhat dissatisfied with her eldest son’s arrangement.

“Yes.” Gu Pingyuan smiled apologetically. “Mother, rest assured, Second Brother will certainly return before dinner.”

As soon as the cart entered Gu Family Village, the villagers all knew immediately. Every household came out to visit. Old Mother Gu had always been well-liked, and moreover, after Gu Family Village suffered military disaster last year, Gu Pingyuan had donated a large sum to repair civilian homes, earning even more respect among the Gu clan.

“I told you so – good people have heaven’s protection. Your family has never done anything wicked or unconscionable. Heaven surely protects good people and will never be wrong.” The old clan elder stroked his beard and smiled.

“Oh my, Pingyuan’s mother, I’ve been so worried these past days.” The most enthusiastic was Second Aunt Gu, who lived at the village entrance. After others gradually dispersed, only she helped carry luggage and bundles, accompanying them all the way to the Gu house.

Upon entering, Old Mother Gu was startled to see the courtyard neat and tidy, windows bright and clean – not at all like a place uninhabited for months.

“Pingyuan, did you clean this?”

Gu Pingyuan was also stunned, having just returned from beyond the pass and just set foot in the house.

While several people were still puzzled, Second Aunt Gu bustled in carrying two bundles, just hearing Old Mother Gu’s question, and laughed: “Ha, don’t ask – I helped clean it.”

“Oh my, how embarrassing, Auntie, we can’t trouble you like this.”

Second Aunt Gu blushed, feeling somewhat embarrassed: “I didn’t do it for nothing. Oh my, Pingyuan’s mother, I really envy you – having such a capable son who married such a capable wife. She takes care of your family’s business in town and asked me to help clean the house nearby, insisting on paying me daily wages. Being neighbors and all, I was too embarrassed to accept, but she forced the money on me, so I had no choice…”

Second Aunt Gu was about to continue chattering, but Old Mother Gu didn’t hear what she said next. Upon hearing “married such a capable wife,” she immediately turned to look at Gu Pingyuan with surprise and suspicion.

Gu Pingyuan thought “Oh no,” not expecting Second Aunt’s mouth to be so quick. He had originally planned to settle everything before discussing this matter, but she had completely spilled the beans.

Gu Pingyuan quickly persuaded Second Aunt to leave. Gu Yuting was first to ask: “Big Brother, did you marry me a sister-in-law?”

Gu Pingyuan couldn’t be bothered with her, first checking his mother’s expression. Old Mother Gu didn’t enter the house but sat in the old rattan chair in the courtyard, staring at him blankly, apparently waiting for Gu Pingyuan to explain himself.

“Go make Mother some hot tea.” Gu Pingyuan wanted to send his little sister away.

Gu Yuting wouldn’t be fooled: “No, I want to listen!”

“Go quickly!” Gu Pingyuan assumed his big brother authority and shouted sternly.

Gu Yuting wrinkled her nose, reluctantly entering the back room with a face full of unwillingness.

“Mother! Your son is unfilial.” Gu Pingyuan dropped to his knees with a thud, crawling several steps to his mother’s knees.

“Get up, who told you to kneel? It’s getting cold, be careful not to catch illness.” Old Mother Gu said anxiously. “Did you really get married?”

“You could say married, you could say not married.” Gu Pingyuan couldn’t clearly explain whether he and Chang Yu’er were actually husband and wife now.

“What kind of talk is that? Marriage is not child’s play. You’ve been away all these years and couldn’t help yourself. If you really did get married, Mother won’t blame you for acting on your own, but whether you married or not, there must be a clear answer.” Old Mother Gu said this, then suddenly remembered something, her face changing dramatically. “It’s not that Yimei girl, is it?” She feared Bai Yimei had married a Taiping prince on one hand while being betrothed to her eldest son on the other – that would be a scandal they couldn’t afford.

“Mother, what are you thinking? If it were Bai Yimei, wouldn’t Second Aunt have mentioned it?”

Old Mother Gu thought this made sense and put her heart back in her stomach, but asked puzzledly: “Then which family’s daughter is it?”

“Mother, do you remember when Yuting was washing my clothes and found that parrot-green jade thumb ring?”

“I remember.” Old Mother Gu thought for a moment. “Could it be the daughter of that family surnamed Chang? Her father saved you.”

Mentioning Chang Si’s father, Gu Pingyuan’s face darkened: “Mother…”

“So that’s how it is.” After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s full account, Old Mother Gu was already in tears. “This is life-saving grace! They saved our family repeatedly, even sacrificing their lives. Pingyuan, one must have conscience. You must wholeheartedly treat this girl well, or I’ll be the first not to forgive you.”

“Yes.” Gu Pingyuan heard the meaning in his mother’s words and answered with lowered head.

“So that big black fellow who helped in the tea garden a few days ago is your wife’s brother.” Old Mother Gu murmured to herself.

Gu Pingyuan nodded, then heard a sudden “crash” behind him. Turning around, he saw Gu Yuting had dropped a cup of hot tea, shattering it completely.

“Little Sister, what’s wrong?” Seeing Gu Yuting suddenly pale, Gu Pingyuan asked hurriedly.

“Nothing, nothing.” Gu Yuting was momentarily absent-minded, hastily sweeping up the porcelain shards. “I’ll go brew another cup of tea.” Though she said this, Gu Yuting entered the back room and never came out again.

Neither Old Mother Gu nor Gu Pingyuan noticed her, their minds still focused on Chang Yu’er.

“Since you’re betrothed and even had a wedding ceremony, though it went wrong halfway through, she’s already part of our family. You should have brought her for me to see.” Old Mother Gu somewhat blamed her eldest son.

“I already sent Second Brother to town to fetch her. She should arrive soon.”

“Oh.” Only then did Old Mother Gu understand what Gu Pingwen had gone to do.

“Then, let’s prepare quickly. I need to change clothes.” Facing this eldest daughter-in-law she’d never met, Old Mother Gu suddenly became flustered.

“Mother…” Gu Pingyuan smiled at her.

By late afternoon at sunset, Old Mother Gu had prepared a table of fine dishes and invited Old Min to join them. The family sat waiting for Gu Pingwen and Chang Yu’er.

Gu Pingyuan heard horse hooves stop outside the door and walked quickly to the entrance, but saw only Gu Pingwen enter alone.

“Where is she?” Gu Pingyuan asked quietly.

“Sister-in-law is outside.” Gu Pingwen beamed. “Big Brother, you go fetch her. I think sister-in-law is too embarrassed to come in.”

Gu Pingyuan nodded and walked out, seeing Chang Yu’er leaning against the cart, head lowered, not knowing where to look, like a startled fawn.

“Yu’er.” Gu Pingyuan gently took her hand. “We’re home now. Come in with me.”

“Wait, wait a moment.” Chang Yu’er’s voice sounded pitiful. “My heart is racing terribly, and I can’t move my feet.”

Gu Pingyuan felt Chang Yu’er’s hands were ice-cold. He enclosed her soft hands in both of his to warm them, comforting her: “Don’t worry, no one in the house will bully you. Mother has prepared a table of fine dishes just waiting for you.”

“Mm.” Chang Yu’er gathered her courage and finally took a step forward.

Gu Pingyuan led her to the main hall: “Mother, this is Yu’er.”

“Yu’er, this is my mother.” At this point, Gu Pingyuan was momentarily at a loss – what should she call her?

Fortunately, Old Mother Gu didn’t think too much about it. Remembering that the Chang family had even sacrificed Chang Si’s father’s life for Gu Pingyuan, and seeing Chang Yu’er’s pitiful, shy, timid appearance, tears had already burst forth. She left her seat and walked several steps forward, embracing Chang Yu’er: “Child, you’ve suffered so much. Don’t worry, you’re home now. No one will dare bully you anymore.”

Chang Yu’er had no mother since childhood. Being held in Old Mother Gu’s arms at this moment, the kind aura of the elderly woman filled her with warmth, and her eyes reddened as she also shed tears.

While everyone was comforting them, suddenly there was horse neighing outside, and someone immediately walked in with heavy steps, shouting loudly: “Brother-in-law, brother-in-law, I’m back from Xinyang! Eh, eh!”

This person stepped into the courtyard and, seeing the scene, immediately widened his eyes.

Old Min clapped his hands and laughed: “Good, now the family is truly reunited.”

The newcomer was none other than Liu Heita.

“Sit down, both of you. I have something to say.” After dinner, Old Mother Gu called the two into her bedroom.

“I’ve heard all about your marriage from Pingyuan in detail. Though there were no formal matchmakers or ceremonies, urgent times call for urgent measures. Before your father-in-law passed away, being able to settle this matter and die with a smile – this is your filial piety. As they say, ‘Of all virtues, filial piety comes first.’ The rest doesn’t matter.” Old Mother Gu looked lovingly at Chang Yu’er. “As for me, I’m extremely satisfied with Yu’er. It’s rare to find such a well-educated, reasonable girl willing to marry into our Gu family. You are the eldest son and daughter-in-law. I only hope you’ll live in harmony like zither and harp, treating each other with respect – that would be our Gu family’s blessing.”

Chang Yu’er’s eyes brimmed with tears. She had originally worried that Old Mother Gu wouldn’t accept her as a daughter-in-law brought back privately, but everything had been overthinking. She looked gratefully at Old Mother Gu.

“But I have more to say about your marriage.” Old Mother Gu said slowly. “If the wedding in Beijing had been properly completed, there’d be nothing more to say. But I asked Pingyuan – that day the bride wasn’t present, let alone bowing to heaven and earth or performing the wine ceremony. ‘Without proper names, words carry no weight.’ So that Beijing wedding doesn’t count. My intention is that you must marry again in Gu Family Village.”

Gu Pingyuan and Chang Yu’er exchanged glances and nodded simultaneously.

“We’ll listen to Mother in everything.”

“Good. As for the date,” Old Mother Gu seemed somewhat troubled, pausing before saying, “How about the day after tomorrow?”

“The day after tomorrow?” Neither Gu Pingyuan nor Chang Yu’er knew what auspicious day that was.

“The day after tomorrow marks exactly twenty years since your father left home. Sigh!” Old Mother Gu sighed heavily. “Since he left, there’s been no word at all. Neither seeing him alive nor dead, but I know he must have passed away, otherwise there couldn’t be not even a single letter. Pingyuan, your father had it hard. He was also a scholar, wholeheartedly seeking official rank through examinations. But when your grandfather’s business failed, he had to abandon scholarship for commerce to shoulder the family burden. He had a belly full of bitter water that I understood. Those who studied with him but weren’t as capable all passed the imperial examinations and became officials and gentlemen. When your father met them, he had to kowtow. He couldn’t swallow this humiliation, which is why he left us four behind to trade in distant lands. Unfortunately, fate was unkind, and now his bones lie unknown in some desolate wilderness, exposed to wind and rain, bullied by foreign ghosts.” Old Mother Gu shed two lines of tears as she spoke.

Hearing this, Gu Pingyuan naturally felt heartbroken, remembering his childhood without a father, being bullied by other children while having to protect his younger siblings, and he too felt sorrowful.

“I’ve always held onto a slim hope, so I never set up a memorial tablet for your father, leaving him unable to receive incense and sacrificial offerings, which is also unfair to him. But there’s one thing – for these entire twenty years, I’ve endured hardship alone, raising three Gu children. Now his eldest son is getting married. In this regard, I’ve been worthy of your father and the Gu family.”

“Mother…” Gu Pingyuan called uneasily.

“The day after tomorrow, I plan to set up your father’s memorial tablet in front of the entire village. After you marry, we’ll move it to the Gu family ancestral hall. When bowing to heaven and earth, during ‘second bow to elders,’ I can receive the ceremony together with your father. If his spirit exists, seeing you married, he can smile in the afterlife.” Old Mother Gu was sobbing by this point. She looked at Chang Yu’er. “Only this way wrongs you…”

“You just said ‘of all virtues, filial piety comes first.’ Since I’m marrying into the Gu family and becoming the eldest daughter-in-law, serving my parents-in-law is only natural.” Chang Yu’er said respectfully.

“What a sensible, good child.” Old Mother Gu nodded through tears. “After you two marry, there’s hope for the Gu family’s prosperity again.”

“Our big sister-in-law is really extraordinary,” Gu Pingwen excitedly told Gu Yuting in the kitchen. “Guess what? When I entered the shop, wow, they’d stocked many in-demand goods from north and south, and the shop assistants were incredibly energetic. When big sister-in-law left, she explained business matters to the assistants so thoroughly it left me dazed.” Gu Pingwen clicked his tongue repeatedly, his face full of admiration.

“Making a mountain out of a molehill,” Gu Yuting glanced at him dismissively. “Big Brother winning ‘Tea King’ didn’t make you this excited.”

“You didn’t see it yourself, but I heard the assistants say personally,” Gu Pingwen, seeing her unconvinced, immediately said urgently, “Big sister-in-law bought candles from Sun Chunyang in Suzhou, but only sold them for three days before storing the goods. When more customers came to buy, they said they were sold out and told them to buy elsewhere. But after closing, she had assistants deliver candles to customers’ homes, saying stock was limited but they were taking care of regular customers. Sun Chunyang’s candles can’t be compared to others. Through this comparison, gradually everyone nearby knew our shop had good candles. Now our shop controls eight or nine-tenths of the candle business in town.”

“A woman knows business this well?” Gu Yuting found it hard to believe.

“I heard the Chang family did business in Shanxi – it’s hereditary. If you don’t believe it, ask her big brother when you bring him food.”

“I know!” Gu Yuting suddenly became irritated, dropped her work and left. “I’m going to check the tea garden.”

Liu Heita was a restless person. Despite returning dusty from a long journey, after eating his fill he looked for work to do. Seeing that in his few days’ absence the tea garden wasn’t as well-maintained as before, he scolded the hired tea farmers thoroughly, then rolled up his sleeves to carry water and irrigate the fields.

“Big Brother Liu.” A crisp call suddenly came from behind.

“Oh, it’s you.” Liu Heita saw Gu Yuting and stopped his work.

“Now that we’re related as in-laws, I don’t know how to address you anymore.” He scratched his head.

Gu Yuting hated hearing this phrase most. She frowned and said nothing, only kicked at pebbles on the ground with her toes.

“It’s getting dark. What are you doing at the tea garden?”

Gu Yuting bit her lower lip, sometimes looking at Liu Heita, sometimes at Gu Family Village with its lit lamps in the distance, but remained silent.

“So you want me to guess riddles, which I’m worst at. Whatever you want to say, just say it straightforwardly.” Liu Heita was direct and couldn’t stand hesitation.

Gu Yuting finally made up her mind and asked rapid-fire: “Since my big sister-in-law is your sister, why does my big brother call you ‘Brother Heita’? You’re from the Chang family, so why do you have the surname Liu? Are you two actually siblings or not?” If Gu Yuting didn’t get answers to these questions, she wouldn’t sleep tonight. She looked urgently at Liu Heita.

“Are you tongue-twisting?” Liu Heita laughed.

“What tongue-twisting? I’m asking seriously, just answer seriously.”

“This matter, your big brother knows best. Go ask him.”

“No, I want to ask you.”

“Ask me? This is a long story.” Liu Heita saw the western sun already half-hidden by mountains and said with difficulty.

“It’s getting late, but with you escorting me down the mountain, what’s to fear? Look…” Gu Yuting slyly rolled her eyes and opened a package she’d been carrying.

“Sauced bones, salted beans, layered cake.” Liu Heita, this big eater, had been restrained at dinner with Old Mother Gu at the table and hadn’t dared eat his fill. Now after working, feeling hungry, his eyes lit up seeing these delicacies. He swallowed and said, “If there were two taels of wine, that would be…”

Gu Yuting extended her other hand, with a small wine bottle hanging from it.

“Hey, this, this…” Liu Heita was so happy he didn’t know what to say. “You treat me better than my own sister. How about tomorrow I adopt you as my sworn sister – we’ll be doubly related.”

This phrase ruined everything. Gu Yuting was both angry and amused, giving him a fierce glare. Seeing he still didn’t understand, she angrily threw the food into his arms: “Eat slowly, don’t choke to death!”

Liu Heita didn’t care what she said, reaching for a fragrant bone to gnaw. Gu Yuting stopped him: “Explain everything clearly first, then eat.”

With delicious food before him, Liu Heita abandoned “it’s a long story” and made it short: “Chang Si’s father saved me from flood waters, so my sister and I don’t share the same surname.”

“I thought the Chang family had you adopted out to others. So you’re actually the Chang family’s adopted son.” Gu Yuting was both surprised and delighted. “So Chang Yu’er isn’t your real sister?”

“That’s right, who says she isn’t.” Liu Heita widened his eyes. “Closer than a real sister. Anyone who dares touch a finger on her, I won’t spare them!”

Before he finished speaking, Gu Yuting’s face had already cleared of all worry, blooming like a flower. Without saying more, she flicked her braids and walked toward the village below.

“Running up the mountain just to ask this?” Liu Heita scratched his head, puzzledly watching her retreating figure.

“Old Master Min, Liu Heita’s trip really wasn’t wasted.” After everyone had gone to sleep, Gu Pingyuan was still discussing details with Old Min under the lamp.

Liu Heita had galloped to Xinyang, where countless tea mountains surrounded the area. He casually found lodging and within days worked as a short-term laborer for a large tea farmer household. With his great strength and modest wage demands, the master was pleased to keep him and spoke freely about everything. Without even brewing a cup of Lanxue tea, Liu Heita had learned the secrets of Xinyang Maojian.

According to the tea farmer, Xinyang originally had thirty major tea merchants who signed contracts with the Li family, selling all their annual tea production to Li Wantang for Beijing merchants to distribute exclusively. However, the tea price was discounted by thirty percent because the contract included a clause: at the Ten Thousand Tea Convention, Beijing merchants must guarantee Xinyang Maojian would win first place among all teas.

“Otherwise Li Wantang would have only two choices: either the contract is void and he must pay a huge sum in compensation to the thirty major tea merchants, or double the originally agreed price to purchase all the Xinyang Maojian.” Either choice would cause Beijing merchants major losses.

“Obviously they chose the first option,” Old Min said. “With no tea on hand, the Li family would come to Huizhou to buy tea. Otherwise, their worry wouldn’t be buying Huizhou tea but how to sell the expensive Maojian they’d bought.”

Gu Pingyuan nodded: “Liu Heita heard another very important thing.”

According to the tea farmer, Beijing merchants had once let slip that if they handled selling Xinyang Maojian, within a year even England’s Queen could drink this tea.

“From this, it sounds like Li Wantang has connected with foreigners and plans to sell this tea abroad,” Gu Pingyuan pondered. “But I don’t know what price the foreigners are offering him.”

“Definitely not high – possibly an unexpectedly low price. Otherwise he wouldn’t press Huizhou tea prices so low.”

“How can we find this out?” Gu Pingyuan frowned in deep thought.

“Aiyo, why are you thinking about this now?” Old Min slapped his thigh. “You’re getting married in three days – this is life’s greatest event! Whatever other matters there are, this bridegroom must wait until after three days to handle them.”

“You don’t understand. On this return to Huizhou, I’ve promised several people certain things that I must accomplish. Old Master Hu trusts me so much – I must sell Huizhou tea at a good price, or I can’t repay his kindness. The God of Wealth Hu Xueyan, though I didn’t use the foreign gun route he provided, I still owe him this favor. I promised him not to let Chen Yucheng return to aid Tianjing, and I must keep my word. Also, when my teacher was dying, I promised to take good care of Bai Yimei – I can’t break that promise either. I must protect her at all costs.”

Gu Pingyuan’s face showed all his unresolved worries. Each matter he mentioned was extremely difficult, but his resolute character made him shoulder them all. Anyone else would worry themselves sick.

“Sigh, you really have it hard.” Old Min sighed. “I’m afraid you’ve left out one more matter.”

“Oh?” Gu Pingyuan was startled.

“I’m old but my eyes aren’t dim, and my heart is clear as a mirror. Why is Miss Chang unwilling to live in the courtyard where Bai Yimei stayed before? You ah, if you don’t let down Bai Yimei, you’ll probably let down Miss Chang.”

Gu Pingyuan was stunned to hear this. Thinking of every time he mentioned returning to Huizhou, the uncontrollable fear in Chang Yu’er’s eyes, he now dimly guessed the reason. Looking up across the courtyard, Chang Yu’er’s bedroom candle still flickered, constantly wavering like unsettled worries.

The grand wedding three days later was the greatest joyous occasion the Gu family had seen in many years. Gu Pingyuan was known for his public-spirited righteousness and won people’s hearts, so everyone from the Gu clan came to help his family, making Gu Family Village lively and bustling with festive joy. Children ran everywhere in the streets setting off firecrackers, scattering red paper all over the ground. Young ladies and wives from every household, all wanting to see the new bride, dressed in their finest clothes and came calling, packing the already modest Gu family courtyard so tightly that not even water could flow through.

The ceremonies of fetching and welcoming the bride were essential, but Chang Yu’er’s family was in Shanxi. This was easily managed – Second Aunt borrowed out her house temporarily, posting a red sign reading “Jinzhong Customs” on the door, making it Chang Yu’er’s “natal home.” Gu Pingyuan temporarily couldn’t act as bridegroom, for today was not only his wedding day but also the day to establish his father Gu Wanzhang’s memorial tablet. As the eldest son, he wore plain clothes, and when he dotted the ancestral tablet with his brush, Old Mother Gu wailed aloud, as if to cry out all the grievances and hardships she’d endured these decades. Village women, led by Second Aunt Gu, continuously comforted her until Old Mother Gu finally stopped her tears.

“Fellow villagers and elders, you are all witnesses. Since my husband left and never returned, no matter how hard or difficult life became, we never used a single dirty penny or did anything to shame the Gu ancestors.” Old Mother Gu’s eyes were red and swollen, her voice choked with emotion. The three Gu siblings knelt before her in a row, listening to their mother’s tearful account, all with tears flowing down their faces, unable to control their emotions.

“Today I’ve raised the three Gu children, and my eldest son Gu Pingyuan has married and established his career. I can finally say I’ve been worthy of the Gu family, worthy of my husband, and worthy of my own heart.” Old Mother Gu held the memorial tablet tightly in her arms, tears dropping onto it one by one.

“Mother!” The three siblings could no longer contain themselves, hugging their mother’s legs and sobbing bitterly.

“Enough, enough. After today, the Gu family’s fortunes will turn from bad to good. You’ve finally weathered the storm. Before long, Pingyuan will have children, and your family will prosper again. His father and grandfather in heaven will surely be comforted.” The old Gu clan elder came personally to console them.

“Today is Pingyuan’s wedding day – don’t cry anymore. Missing the auspicious hour is no joke.”

This reminder made everyone hurry to wipe away tears. Gu Pingyuan quickly changed into wedding attire and mounted a snow-white tall horse rented from the town stable, with a large red pompom on his chest, to fetch the bride from Second Aunt’s house.

The Gu family also had many congratulatory guests. Old Master Hu sent Second Master Hou with a thousand taels of silver as wedding gift – the most generous gift among all guests. Qiao Henian came with Secretary Hao, each bringing several hundred taels of silver in congratulations. What Gu Pingyuan hadn’t expected was that the “wolf in sheep’s clothing” Chen Yongqing also came. Having secured a position in the Provincial Governor’s office, Yuan Jiasan, remembering Gu Pingyuan’s merit in procuring foreign guns, sent him with four wedding gifts. Though the gifts weren’t heavy, the honor was rare, making all the villagers exclaim in admiration.

When Gu Pingyuan brought Chang Yu’er home, the incense altar in the main hall was already prepared. Incense smoke curled upward, red candles burned brightly, and relatives, friends, and officials took their positions.

Old Mother Gu sat at one end of the incense altar, while Gu Pingyuan’s deceased father’s memorial tablet was placed at the other end.

“First bow to heaven and earth!”

“Second bow to elders!”

The master of ceremonies called out loudly. The courtyard was packed with people. Besides Gu clan elder and Second Master Hou, officials like Qiao Henian, Secretary Hao, and Chen Yongqing sat on both sides, while everyone else stood on tiptoe to watch the excitement. Liu Heita, afraid of crowding his sister, spread his arms wide like a hen protecting chicks, standing beside Chang Yu’er to shield her from the crowd.

“Husband and wife…” The master of ceremonies had only called out half the phrase when thunderous firecracker sounds erupted outside like mountain collapse and thunder. The firecrackers numbered a hundred thousand strings, deafeningly loud and heart-stopping, as if they would blow up Gu Family Village.

“Who, who is this?” Liu Heita’s face immediately changed color. Firecrackers were set off when the bride’s sedan arrived, and at most one small string when entering the bridal chamber. There was no reason to set off firecrackers during the wedding ceremony, let alone so many strings – this was deliberate disruption.

Gu Pingyuan also turned to look. The smoke in the courtyard made everyone cough loudly. After the smoke finally cleared somewhat, a figure emerged from outside the gate, walking closer until Gu Pingyuan recognized him.

“It’s you!”

“Exactly!” Li Qin grinned. “Gu Pingyuan, today’s your big day. I’ve come to bring you wedding gifts.”

“Who wants your damned good intentions, you bastard!” Liu Heita saw him daring to disrupt his sister’s wedding and glared with bull-like eyes, ready to charge forward.

Before he could move, Gu Yuting in the courtyard couldn’t contain herself first. Being closest, she spoke up: “Congratulations have their proper etiquette. You’re completely unreasonable, arriving at this moment, setting off firecrackers and crashing the feast. Are you a congratulatory guest or a troublemaker? Do you think Gu Family Village has no one?”

With these words, which villager in Gu Family Village wouldn’t share the same hatred? They all began cursing with seven mouths and eight tongues. Liu Heita watched in amazement: “Brother-in-law, your sister is fiercer than Yu’er. You’d better not bully my sister in the future.”

Gu Pingyuan had already stood up: “Li Qin, you’re causing trouble here, but I’m afraid you’ve found the wrong place. Not to mention everyone in this courtyard surnamed Gu, even the Prefect of Huizhou Prefecture is sitting right here.”

“Can numbers compete with abundant silver?” Li Qin laughed carelessly, then looked at Qiao Henian. “The Prefect? Hehe.” His face showed complete disdain.

“What exactly do you want?” Gu Pingyuan asked with a darkened face.

“Didn’t I just say? To bring gifts.” Li Qin leisurely walked to a side table, casually examining the congratulatory gifts one by one, stopping before Old Master Hu’s red card.

“One thousand taels of silver. The Hu family claims to be a major Huizhou household, yet they only give a thousand taels.” Li Qin looked mockingly at Second Master Hou.

“Come, bring up my wedding gift.”

At Li Qin’s call, servants brought up a peach wood tray carved with the Two Immortals of Harmony, covered with green cloth. Everyone including Qiao Henian felt somewhat nervous. Who knew Li Qin would gently lift the cloth, revealing a pair of white jade vases.

“Flawless white jade, vases for peace and fulfillment. Gu Pingyuan, this pair of gifts I’m presenting is quite good, isn’t it?”

Gu Pingyuan had worked as an appraiser in Shanxi pawnshops and had a discerning eye. With just a glance, he was shocked. This gift was more than just good – this was the finest mutton-fat white jade, carved from a single piece of seed material, warm and lustrous white, without even hair-thin cracks visible, not even dust-sized color variations. Though this pair of jade vases wasn’t unique in the world, even the imperial palace might not find better ones. In terms of price, they couldn’t cost less than thirty or forty thousand taels of silver.

Even those present who didn’t understand could see this gift was extraordinarily precious. The entire venue fell silent. Second Master Hou had thought his family’s gift was generous, but Li Qin’s comparison made him look shabby. The Beijing merchant’s financial power immediately stunned him. He looked at the jade vases, then at Li Qin, his eyes full of hatred and envy.

Li Qin’s extravagant gesture greatly surprised Gu Pingyuan. Though the Li family was indeed wealthy, there was no reason to casually present such an expensive gift. Even between close family friends or sworn brothers, sending such a gift could be considered the ultimate gesture, let alone that Gu Pingyuan and the Li family, especially Li Qin, were irreconcilable enemies. There must be some hidden motive here.

Gu Pingyuan cupped his hands: “Young Master Li, this gift is too valuable. Whether sent by Old Master Li or yourself, please take it back. I dare not accept it.”

“You won’t accept it?” Li Qin seemed prepared for this, his face remaining calm. “But the Li family has never taken back gifts once given. I’ve delivered the gift. Once I leave this door, whether you want to smash or sell it, I don’t care. If you sell it for silver, consider it dowry money for your wife.”

“Young Master Li.” Chang Yu’er also stood up. This man in Shanxi had once tried to kill her, and when murder failed, he ended up causing Zhang Guangfa’s death instead. Her husband’s refusal of his gift was right and proper. Since he mentioned her, she couldn’t remain silent. “My husband spoke correctly. Our Gu family has no fortune to enjoy Li family money. Please take this gift back.”

“Hehe.” Li Qin stared at Chang Yu’er as if he could see through her red bridal veil to her face. “The new bride is as beautiful as a celestial, worthy of any grand gift. I won’t disturb further. Farewell!” With that, he turned and walked outside, ordering his servants to drive away.

A perfectly good wedding banquet was disrupted by Li Qin, leaving everyone with lumps in their hearts, unclear about his intentions. But the immediate priority was the wedding banquet. Though Li Qin’s gift on the table was conspicuous, there was no time to investigate thoroughly.

After bowing to heaven and earth, several ladies escorted Chang Yu’er to the bridal chamber. Only then did Liu Heita find time to approach, saying in his gruff voice: “What did that Li family brat come here for? Looking at his malicious smile, he’s definitely up to no good.”

Gu Pingyuan thought to himself, thank goodness he hadn’t told Liu Heita about the Shanxi incident, or today would have seen blood splattered at the wedding.

“Brother-in-law, let me return those vases to him.”

Gu Pingyuan waved his hand: “Leave them for now. Just to show off wealth publicly at my wedding and dampen my spirits wouldn’t require such an expensive gift. Moreover, Li Qin is no longer the frivolous young master of old – there must be deeper meaning here. Without understanding it clearly, what’s the use of simply returning the vases?”

He had no time to ponder Li Qin’s motives, being surrounded by everyone and pushed to the bridal chamber in the second courtyard. Originally, the Gu family compound had three courtyards, but Old Mother Gu had sold two to supplement household income. During Gu Family Village’s military disaster, the two sold courtyards were burned down. Gu Pingyuan simply used silver to buy them back, and now, newly renovated, they served perfectly as the bridal chamber.

“Yu’er, I’ll take you somewhere.” Gu Pingyuan used a golden balance rod to lift the red bridal veil. He and Chang Yu’er weren’t strangers meeting for the first time as husband and wife – they had plenty to say to each other. After more than half an hour, hearing the crowd in the front courtyard gradually disperse and the village drum announcing the first watch, Gu Pingyuan took Chang Yu’er’s hand and left through their family’s side gate.

Chang Yu’er was very puzzled. She’d never heard of newlyweds going out on their wedding night, but she always obeyed Gu Pingyuan’s words, especially now that she was his wife. So she said nothing, only following Gu Pingyuan through streets and alleys. After walking for a quarter-hour, they arrived at the gate of a small courtyard at the village entrance, where they could faintly hear a small stream flowing behind the courtyard.

Gu Pingyuan placed his hand on the courtyard gate, pausing briefly before slowly pushing it open: “Yu’er, this was my teacher’s former home. I studied in the private school here since childhood.” He turned back to look at Chang Yu’er.

Chang Yu’er’s face was somewhat pale. She took a deep breath of the cool air: “Why did you bring me here?”

“Come in first.” Gu Pingyuan tugged Chang Yu’er’s hand, feeling her palm instantly turn ice-cold.

But Gu Pingyuan ignored this, only pulling Chang Yu’er into the courtyard and pointing out everything to her.

“This is the study where I and several children of similar age studied for ten years. On the day I left for the imperial examinations in Beijing, I also bid farewell to my teacher in this study.”

“This is the dining hall. Teacher Bai was afraid we’d lose focus if we went home for lunch, so he preferred to subsidize our meal money rather than have us eat lunch at his home.”

“This is my teacher’s bedroom. He led by example, never putting down his books, annotating and taking notes, never retiring before the third watch.”

Finally, there was one last room in the west. Gu Pingyuan looked deeply at Chang Yu’er: “This is Bai Yimei’s boudoir.”

Gu Pingyuan faced Chang Yu’er: “Yu’er, look at me.” Chang Yu’er had been avoiding her husband’s gaze, but now slightly raised her eyes to meet Gu Pingyuan’s.

“Bai Yimei and I did indeed have an agreement before – she would marry no one but me, and I would marry no one but her.” Gu Pingyuan watched the fear in Chang Yu’er’s eyes intensify, her body beginning to tremble slightly. Though his heart ached for her, he was determined to resolve this matter tonight with swift action.

“But heaven’s will forbade it, and human strength couldn’t change it. Previously I was unwilling to accept this, but now I no longer entertain such thoughts. I promised Teacher Bai to take good care of his daughter, but that’s all. If she can live peacefully for life, I’ll have repaid my teacher’s nurturing kindness.” Gu Pingyuan said decisively, “I deceive neither people nor heaven. I swear here and now: From today forward, I, Gu Pingyuan, will have absolutely no romantic feelings toward Bai Yimei. If I violate this oath, I’m willing to have ten thousand blades pierce my heart…”

“Don’t…” Chang Yu’er frantically tried to cover Gu Pingyuan’s mouth, but he pulled her hands down and finished his words.

“…to fall into hell forever, never to achieve salvation through ten thousand kalpas!”

Having spoken, he pulled Chang Yu’er’s hand and walked quickly out of the small courtyard, turning back to lock the gate. He weighed the key in his hand, then threw it with a flourish. They heard distant water sounds as the key fell into the stream, splashing up fragments of water.

Gu Pingyuan looked sincerely at Chang Yu’er. Chang Yu’er’s eyes held faint tears as she said something quietly.

“What did you say?” Gu Pingyuan didn’t hear clearly.

“I said, even if you truly break your oath someday, I won’t worry. If you go to hell, I’ll follow you. I’ll be your wife for life.” Chang Yu’er’s fear completely disappeared as she gazed at her husband with eyes bright as the moon.

Gu Pingyuan smiled broadly and actually lifted Chang Yu’er in his arms, striding toward home.

Behind them in the alley, Old Mother Gu was watching from afar. Worried about the two, she had followed them. Seeing this scene, she smiled with relief and nodded, then quickly raised her hand to wipe tears from her eyes.

The next morning, the Gu family had an early visitor. When Gu Pingyuan came out to see, he was surprised to find Chen Yongqing.

“Bridegroom, my condolences on your fatigue. I shouldn’t visit so early today, but there’s an urgent matter.” Chen Yongqing winked mischievously at Gu Pingyuan.

Gu Pingyuan was both amused and exasperated by his words, cupping his hands in formal greeting.

“Master Chen, what brings you here so early?”

“What master? I’m just a poor official. Brother Gu, please don’t tease me.” Chen Yongqing smiled, then suddenly asked, “That Li Qin who came yesterday – it seems you and he have some conflicts?”

Gu Pingyuan didn’t know his purpose in asking and only nodded slightly.

“What about Chen Qitai?”

Gu Pingyuan was startled: “You mean Chen Qitai of the Dongting merchant guild? I have no friendship with him – actually, we’re also adversaries. He disrupted one of my business deals just two days ago.”

“Then this matter isn’t really urgent.” Chen Yongqing leaned back leisurely.

Gu Pingyuan’s curiosity was piqued, and he had to ask: “Master Chen, may I ask what exactly this is about? You can’t speak in riddles, leaving half unsaid.”

“Li Qin is scheming against Chen Qitai, and it might end in death.” Chen Yongqing’s words immediately shocked Gu Pingyuan.

It turned out that when Gu Pingyuan bought foreign guns and cannons from Russia, Li Qin was greatly surprised. He thought he’d given Gu Pingyuan an impossible task, but unexpectedly Gu Pingyuan turned the situation to his advantage and gained the Provincial Governor’s favor. For the Li family’s tea buying in Huizhou to succeed, they needed government support, so Li Qin dared not be careless. Though the Li family had given Yuan Jiasan a large sum of money, Gu Pingyuan had helped Yuan Jiasan secure his position as Provincial Governor – a greater service by comparison. Li Qin was determined to recover lost ground and set his sights on the foreign guns in Chen Qitai’s hands.

These foreign guns needed transport permits from the provincial capital. Firearms were strictly controlled goods, and despite Chen Qitai’s extensive bribery, he still hadn’t obtained the permit. According to Li Qin’s calculation, if he served as intermediary to have Chen Qitai sell these guns to Anhui’s Qing forces, he could at least match Gu Pingyuan’s achievement.

But Chen Qitai wouldn’t buy into it. His calculation was shrewd – these goods were rare commodities. Anhui’s military needs were limited, and they’d just acquired a batch of foreign guns, so prices wouldn’t be good. If transported to Jiangsu-Zhejiang or even the foreign settlements, profits would be astounding.

After Li Qin’s repeated persuasion proved useless, he steeled his heart and used a desperate stratagem, planning to trap both Chen Qitai and his guns in Anhui. On one hand, he persuaded Chen Qitai to simply smuggle the guns without transport permits, bribing his way to transport them to Dongting Junshan Mountain. On the other hand, he secretly informed Yuan Jiasan that a batch of foreign guns was being transported from Anhui to the Taiping stronghold of Tianjing, and if intercepted, Anhui’s military strength could rival the Xiang Army and Huai braves of the Zeng brothers and Li Hongzhang.

Li Qin’s silver tongue moved both Chen Qitai and Yuan Jiasan. Li Qin also pretended to be helpful, assisting Chen Qitai in planning the gun transport route, then turned around and informed Yuan Jiasan, waiting for the guns to begin transport before dispatching troops to intercept them on mountain roads. If Chen Qitai didn’t resist, that would be fine, but if he fought or fled, it would be perfect pretext to eliminate them all and claim credit for the kill.

“This young Beijing merchant Li has such vicious thoughts at such a young age. I hold a position in the Provincial Governor’s secretariat, assisting with documents, and this troop deployment order passed through my hands.” Chen Yongqing spoke slowly. “Originally I thought, since you’re all merchants, perhaps one of them has connections with you, Brother Gu, so I came to tip you off for early preparation. But now I see both are at odds with you, so I might as well sit on the mountain and watch tigers fight.”

“No!” Gu Pingyuan’s brows had long since knotted together, and he stood up, pacing rapidly. He understood clearly – he’d exhausted his efforts to create a stalemate between Anhui’s Qing forces and Chen Yucheng’s Taipings, essentially a delaying strategy waiting for change. But if Yuan Jiasan obtained Chen Qitai’s foreign guns, the situation would be vastly different. He might launch a major offensive against Sanhe Town, putting Bai Yimei’s life in grave danger.

“These two men have nothing to do with you – why are you so anxious?” Chen Yongqing looked at him strangely.

Gu Pingyuan couldn’t reveal his calculations but had another legitimate reason.

“Master Chen, you can also see Li Qin is sinister and vicious. Though Chen Qitai isn’t my friend, he’s still a legitimate major merchant. I can’t watch him be destroyed by a villain like Li Qin.”

“But what can you do? Tell Chen Qitai? He wouldn’t believe you. Besides, the foreign guns are still in Anhui. Once Provincial Governor Yuan has this idea, seizing the guns would be easy as pie. His waiting for transport is simply to pin charges of ‘gun smuggling’ and ‘aiding Taipings’ on Chen Qitai. ‘Smuggling’ carries much heavier penalties than ‘private possession.'” Gu Pingyuan paced the hall while speaking slowly.

“Hehe, Brother Gu’s mind is indeed sharp – Provincial Governor Yuan’s intentions can’t fool you. Since you understand everything, what solution do you have?”

“I plan to find a buyer for these foreign guns.” After long contemplation, Gu Pingyuan had formed a plan. “To suppress the Monkey King, you must invite Buddha. Though Provincial Governor Yuan dominates within the province, looking further afield, finding someone more ruthless isn’t difficult.”

“This sounds mysterious. Brother Gu, what’s your good idea? Let me hear it.”

Gu Pingyuan smiled: “Master Chen, I really need your help with this matter.”

When Gu Pingyuan revealed his plan, Chen Yongqing also smiled: “You’re actually helping me – who wouldn’t want to do such a favor of offering flowers to Buddha?”

“Think carefully. Doing this will offend Provincial Governor Yuan. Not to mention distant consequences, you’ll lose your position in the Governor’s office.”

“Good birds choose their trees.” Chen Yongqing replied with just this phrase. Gu Pingyuan knew this man appeared vague on the surface but was solid at heart, and nodded in agreement.

“In that case, Master Chen, please come to my study. Let’s discuss this thoroughly.”

The sky was frighteningly overcast. The convoy that set out at dusk traveled by night and rested by day, choosing secluded roads, traveling for two full days. The weather still wouldn’t clear – though it was the fifteenth day, the moon was hidden behind heavy dark clouds, not letting through a trace of light. To conceal their tracks, the convoy lit one torch for every three vehicles. The night swallowed all light, pressing down oppressively.

“Brother Chen, should we stop here for a rest, half an hour or so? In such darkness on mountain roads, overturning a cart would be no joke.” Gao Kui, deputy chief steward of the Dongting merchant guild leading the way, spurred his horse back to Chen Qitai, who was guarding the rear.

Chen Qitai looked up thoughtfully: “Alright, let’s rest briefly, then light torches in front of every cart and speed up. We must reach Guangde County before dawn tomorrow. Once there, we’ll have nothing to fear.”

“Fear?” Gao Kui glanced at Chen Qitai. Though he couldn’t see clearly in the darkness, he’d followed this chief steward for decades through smooth sailing, and had never heard Chen Qitai fear anyone.

Chen Qitai dismounted and joined Gao Kui in organizing the workers’ rest. When they reached the end of the convoy, he suddenly said: “These past days, have you noticed anything wrong?”

“No, the journey’s been quite smooth, just too dark, but that’s actually good for us – no fear of discovery by government troops.”

“Too smooth.” Chen Qitai shook his head. “I carry ten thousand taels in scattered banknotes, and haven’t spent a single one yet.”

“Brother, what’s wrong with you? Isn’t saving money good?”

“That’s exactly what worries me. Money that should be spent can’t be saved, or there’ll be trouble sooner or later.” Though Chen Qitai appeared boldly heroic like a river-lake warrior on the surface, leading a merchant guild in business required more than rough exterior – he was actually shrewd and calculating at heart.

“Since we’re smuggling, the most important thing is the route. I investigated this road repeatedly. The mountain road we just passed should have a tax collection checkpoint, and I even found out the commanding officer’s name, planning to slip him silver. But did you notice? The checkpoint was withdrawn, yet the grass ashes on the ground are still warm. Even if those soldiers went somewhere to drink, this is a money-collecting checkpoint – they wouldn’t leave it unguarded.”

Gao Kui felt his hair stand on end hearing Chen Qitai’s words, looking around at the dark mountain forest.

“No good.” Chen Qitai’s heart had been suspended, always feeling something would happen. “Go give orders – we can’t wait half an hour. Have the workers relieve themselves, grab some dry rations, and get moving.”

“Right away.” Gao Kui turned to leave but suddenly heard night owls screeching in the forest, and countless lights instantly appeared.

“Mountain demons!” A worker beside Chen Qitai screamed in terror.

The convoy immediately fell into chaos. Chen Qitai was initially startled, his hair standing on end, but having weathered many storms, he quickly calmed down. First, he slapped the worker hard across the face, then shouted: “Everyone stay put! Guard your cargo! Gao Kui, take men to protect the convoy!”

The Dongting merchant guild normally maintained an escort agency. All valuable cargo shipments were handled by this agency. Gao Kui actually also served as head escort, with considerable martial skills and notably good aim with foreign guns.

Hearing Chen Qitai’s call, he led the escort agency men to protect the convoy from the flanks, gripping a musket and aiming at the forest.

But when he could see clearly, Gao Kui couldn’t help lowering his weapon. Emerging from the forest in formations were Qing soldiers, numbering three to five hundred, each carrying weapons. A group of personal guards with foreign guns surrounded a fifth-rank garrison commander who stepped forward.

Chen Qitai’s heart immediately turned over, knowing great change was imminent. Being an old river-lake hand, he knew once official words were spoken, there’d be no room to maneuver. So he stepped forward first with a smile and bowed: “Commander, you work so hard, setting checkpoints in the mountains at midnight.”

“Just afraid someone might smuggle goods in the dark of night.” The garrison commander’s face was darker than the night, clearly extremely difficult to deal with. “What are you transporting?”

Chen Qitai knew inspection was inevitable. Rather than lie and be exposed, better to be straightforward.

“Reporting to Commander, foreign guns.”

“Foreign guns?” The garrison commander looked forward and back. “All carts carry foreign guns – that must be several thousand. What are they for, rebellion?”

His tone was hostile from the start. Chen Qitai’s heart sank further: “We’re legitimate merchants doing business at Dongting Mountain in Zhejiang. These foreign guns were bought from foreign merchants at Shanghai’s foreign settlement. All procedures are complete, and the purchase contracts are here for your inspection, Commander.”

With a meaningful glance, Gao Kui quickly presented the contracts with foreign merchants.

“Hmm.” Soldiers had already raised lanterns to shine over, and the garrison commander glanced carelessly, sneering coldly. “One is a Jiangsu-Zhejiang merchant, the other a Shanghai foreigner, yet they’re transferring goods in Anhui – how peculiar.” He extended his hand. “I only recognize transport permits issued by government offices. Bring it for inspection.”

Chen Qitai and Gao Kui exchanged glances, neither speaking.

“Don’t have one? Then this is smuggling. And you’re transporting foreign guns – could they be for Hong Xiuquan?”

“Commander, you can’t say such things carelessly!” Gao Kui protested loudly.

“Shut up!” Chen Qitai saw the garrison commander’s eyes flash with murderous intent under the firelight and immediately became extremely alert. He stepped forward two paces, cupping his hands in salute. “Commander, my subordinate doesn’t know proper respect. Your Excellency is magnanimous – please don’t take it to heart. May I speak with you privately? I have confidential matters to report.”

“Now that sounds more human.” The garrison commander snorted and walked aside with Chen Qitai.

“Sir, I won’t waste words. This batch of foreign guns is indeed smuggled. In this wilderness, heaven knows, earth knows, you know, I know. If you raise your noble hand and let my convoy pass, Chen will be grateful in the future.” He took out all ten thousand taels in banknotes and pressed them into the garrison commander’s hands.

A garrison commander with hundreds of soldiers under him, skimming from military rations and maintaining ghost soldiers, might not earn ten thousand taels in a year or two. The garrison commander hadn’t expected Chen Qitai to be so generous. As the saying goes, “One doesn’t strike gift-bearers,” especially when the gift was ten thousand taels. He coughed twice, quietly tucking the banknotes into his sleeve, and softened his tone: “Since that’s the case, I’ll be frank with you. This assignment came from the Provincial Governor’s office. Leave the foreign guns and I won’t make things difficult for your people. Otherwise, military orders are clear – those found ‘smuggling firearms to aid the Taipings’ can be…” He made a slashing gesture across his throat.

“Not one will be spared!”

This chilling tone made Chen Qitai shudder, realizing things had gone badly wrong. He hadn’t expected Yuan Jiasan to personally order this. So these men weren’t anti-smuggling officers but lying in ambush specifically for this batch of foreign guns.

This was official banditry – using his smuggling as pretext to steal the guns and silence witnesses. Chen Qitai immediately understood the situation. But what to do next? Could he really abandon the convoy’s cargo and return empty-handed to Dongting? Chen Qitai had done business for decades and never suffered such total loss. Word of this would spread – such a devastating loss of face meant he’d never show himself in public again. Moreover, this batch of foreign guns had been bought from Richard at inflated prices to punish Gu Pingyuan, costing over seven hundred thousand in capital. Could it all just disappear? He absolutely couldn’t accept this.

While he pondered in silence, the garrison commander immediately showed his displeasure, shouting: “I don’t have time to stand here until dawn. Make your choice – leave the convoy or leave both people and cargo.”

The situation had reached a critical impasse. Chen Qitai felt anger surge up – he wanted to fight these government troops. If it were thirty or fifty Qing soldiers, Chen Qitai might actually do it, killing them and burying the bodies in the forest without anyone knowing. But facing several hundred troops, Chen Qitai knew without thinking he couldn’t win, only needlessly dragging his brothers to their deaths.

“Commander, everything can be negotiated. How about I leave half the cargo? Mountains don’t move but water flows – the Dongting Merchant Guild isn’t nameless in Jiangsu-Zhejiang. We might be able to help you someday. More friends mean more paths.”

Chen Qitai’s words were soft yet firm. The garrison commander was momentarily stunned, then laughed sinisterly: “I suppose you also want to say more enemies mean more walls. You’re mistaken – today’s matter isn’t negotiable! Men!”

At the garrison commander’s shout, Chen Qitai knew he was about to act. Stepping back two paces, he also called loudly: “Gao Kui, grab your weapons!” He was prepared to burn his boats – even if he died, he’d drag some down with him.

“Who says it’s not negotiable!” Just as the situation was about to explode, someone loudly responded from nearby.

“Who’s there!” The garrison commander was startled.

The speaker walked calmly into the circle. When lanterns and torches illuminated him, the most surprised person was Chen Qitai.

“Gu Pingyuan, how is it you?”

“Chief Steward Chen, you’re truly forgetful. Didn’t you ask me to go to the Zhejiang Provincial Governor’s office to help obtain a transport permit for foreign guns? How did you forget?” Gu Pingyuan took out an official document from his chest and handed it to Chen Qitai.

Actually, this deal had been brokered by Chen Yongqing, who, having official position, found it more convenient to request audience with the Zhejiang Provincial Governor. When Li Hongzhang heard he could obtain three thousand foreign guns, he immediately issued the transport permit and agreed to provide military escort. Gu Pingyuan had worried Chen Yongqing would offend Yuan Jiasan for this, but Chen Yongqing’s calculations were more precise – comparing Yuan Jiasan with Li Hongzhang, naturally the latter was a more reliable patron. Planting this good seed now meant even if Yuan Jiasan blamed him later, he could pack up and leave, not worrying about finding good fortune in Zhejiang.

Chen Qitai felt like he was dreaming, hesitantly accepting the document. The walnut-sized eight-line paper bore Zhejiang Provincial Governor Li Hongzhang’s large seal clearly stamped on it, explicitly naming the Dongting Merchant Guild to transport three thousand foreign guns from Anhui to Hangzhou, Zhejiang.

He looked at the seal, then at Gu Pingyuan, momentarily unsure what to do.

“Chief Steward, since this commander wants to inspect the transport permit, you should show it to him.” Gu Pingyuan smiled as he reminded.

“Oh, oh.” Chen Qitai seemed somewhat dazed, taking a breath as he handed over the permit.

The garrison commander hadn’t expected a Cheng Yaojin to emerge halfway, actually producing a transport permit from the Zhejiang Provincial Governor’s office. But he had also received military orders – today’s matter was lawless, and returning with three thousand foreign guns would be meritorious service, otherwise he’d face military justice himself. Thinking this, he waved the paper: “Transport permits are always issued by the place of origin. Transporting from Anhui to Zhejiang – how could Zhejiang’s office issue the permit? This is forged! Who are you to dare forge official documents and the Provincial Governor’s seal? This is a capital offense!” He roared loudly, his words dripping with killing intent, making even Chen Qitai’s heart tighten.

“This document is genuine, indeed issued by the Zhejiang Provincial Governor’s office.” Gu Pingyuan spoke as if chatting casually in a teahouse, neither startled nor fearful nor hurried.

“I say it’s fake, so it’s fake!”

“It’s not fake.” No matter how the garrison commander raged, Gu Pingyuan’s tone remained calm, seemingly argumentative. The Dongting Merchant Guild members watching felt both admiration and bewilderment – could this man truly not fear death?

The garrison commander was so angry his neck turned red. Just as he was about to order execution, Gu Pingyuan suddenly smiled: “Commander, since you say it’s fake, let me find you a witness to see whether this transport permit is real or fake.”

Gu Pingyuan turned around and shouted toward the dark road beyond the lights.

“General Ye, please say a word, or this commander won’t believe.”

The garrison commander trembled upon hearing this, and looking up was frightened out of his wits. Somehow, his forces surrounding the merchant convoy had themselves been surrounded by another unit. This army also wore Qing uniforms, but each carried foreign guns, appearing well-trained and spirited.

The garrison commander’s men had been concentrating on listening to Gu Pingyuan argue with their officer, focusing all lanterns on the crowd, leaving the outside pitch black. In this moment of inattention, they’d been encircled, causing great confusion.

“Don’t panic, everyone. We all serve the court. Keep your guns steady – don’t misfire and hurt our own people.” A general walked in from outside the crowd, glancing at the garrison commander. “I am Zhejiang Brigade General Ye Zhichao. Which unit are you from?”

Ye Zhichao was no unknown figure – a major general under Li Hongzhang whose name this garrison commander had heard. He immediately performed military salute: “This humble officer, Anhui Green Standard Garrison Commander Sun Dayong, pays respects to the General.”

Though the garrison commander was fifth rank and the brigade general third rank, seeming not far apart, from fourth-rank guerrilla commander down were merely “officers,” while third-rank brigade generals and above were “generals” – completely different statuses.

“This batch of foreign guns has been sold to Zhejiang garrison forces, awaiting delivery for completion of sale. What? Do you dare rob Lord Li’s property?” Ye Zhichao didn’t let the garrison commander rise, asking with authority.

“This humble one dare not, this is…” The garrison commander swallowed his words, not daring to implicate Yuan Jiasan.

Fortunately, Ye Zhichao didn’t pursue it: “I trust you wouldn’t dare strike a stone with an egg. Lord Li feared something might happen to this batch of foreign guns on the road, so he specially sent me with troops to escort them.”

Chen Qitai breathed a sigh of relief, only then realizing his front and back were soaked with cold sweat.

Gao Kui had seen Gu Pingyuan at the Ten Thousand Tea Convention and never expected him to appear in time to resolve their crisis. Chen Qitai’s heart was even more mixed – like an overturned five-spice jar. This batch of foreign guns had originally been stolen from Gu Pingyuan, and he’d heard afterward that Gu Pingyuan wanted to buy these guns to save his family’s lives. This should have been an irreconcilable grudge, yet Gu Pingyuan would do this – how should he handle it?

While Chen Qitai was still stunned, Gu Pingyuan had already approached, bowing deeply: “Chief Steward Chen, I must first apologize for acting without authorization. Without consulting you, I took the liberty of representing the Dongting Merchant Guild in selling this batch of foreign guns to Provincial Governor Li. However, the Provincial Governor’s office offered a good price – by my calculation, based on what you paid Richard, you can earn at least one hundred thousand taels.”

Chen Qitai’s face flushed red. Rarely in his life had he been speechless, but now his lips trembled for a long time without uttering a single word.

Gu Pingyuan, understanding human nature, didn’t want to embarrass others. He smiled and turned to leave, then looked back to add: “Chief Steward, let me give you a word of advice – ‘One must guard against others.’ These government troops were clearly lying in ambush, apparently well-prepared.”

After Gu Pingyuan finished speaking and left, Gao Kui felt terrible letting him go like this. After swallowing several times, he called out hoarsely: “Boss Gu!”

Gu Pingyuan turned back to look. Gao Kui found himself at a loss for words, only cupping his hands in salute as thanks. Gu Pingyuan returned the courtesy and bid farewell, mounting his horse alone and departing.

Since Gu Pingyuan left, Chen Qitai had stood silently by the roadside, gazing toward distant Huizhou. Gao Kui had to deal with government troops, change routes, and arrange supplies, keeping extremely busy. When everything was finally settled and he was about to call workers to depart, he noticed Chen Qitai still standing roadside.

“Big Brother, what’s wrong with you?”

“Sigh!” Chen Qitai rarely sighed. “Nothing, just suddenly feeling old. What Gu Pingyuan said before leaving sounded obscure but was crystal clear. Coming to Huizhou this time, I thought I was settling scores with satisfaction, never expecting to encounter two young men – one used me as a weapon and nearly dropped me in a trap, while the other…” Chen Qitai shook his head with a bitter expression, as if he’d swallowed a spoonful of bitter medicine.

Gao Kui had also figured it out: “Damn it, those Beijing merchants are really unscrupulous. We must settle this account with the Li family.”

“Gao Kui.” Chen Qitai frowned, turning to pat his shoulder. “I’ve done business for decades and know well that grudges can be resolved, but kindness is hard to repay. Owing someone such a huge favor for no reason – that’s the real devastating blow.”

“I’m not blaming you, but why did you get involved in the conflict between Beijing merchants and the Dongting Merchant Guild? Originally the Provincial Governor thought highly of you, but this time you’ve thoroughly offended Provincial Governor Yuan.” Qiao Henian stood outside the Provincial Governor’s office, looking disapprovingly at Gu Pingyuan.

“I think the same. Even if you wanted to help the Dongting Merchant Guild, you needn’t show your face personally. Now that you’ve revealed yourself, things will be difficult.” Secretary Hao also chimed in from the side.

“Lord Qiao, Brother Hao, I know you’re worried about me, but I have my own words for Provincial Governor Yuan.” Gu Pingyuan originally hadn’t planned to appear personally, but later thought since he and Chen Qitai were enemies, this was a good opportunity for reconciliation, so he acted personally. He also knew he couldn’t offend the provincial governor too severely, so he prepared an explanation, claiming the foreign guns had indeed been ordered by Zhejiang long ago. He trusted Yuan Jiasan wouldn’t confront Li Hongzhang about it.

But though his calculations were good, when he entered the Provincial Governor’s second hall, he immediately saw Li Qin sitting in a side seat conversing with Yuan Jiasan.

“Trouble – I’m probably a step too late. Li Qin has likely filed false accusations first.” When Gu Pingyuan saw Li Qin, Li Qin also saw him, giving Gu Pingyuan an enigmatic smile.

When Yuan Jiasan saw Qiao Henian enter with Gu Pingyuan standing behind him, his expression immediately darkened. He ordered a seat for Qiao Henian but ignored Gu Pingyuan.

Instead of mentioning the foreign guns, he first said to Qiao Henian: “Prefect Qiao, go to the secretariat later to collect a proclamation. Find people to copy it overnight and post it throughout Huizhou’s towns and counties.”

“Yes.” Qiao Henian rose to receive orders. “May I ask, my lord, what the proclamation concerns?”

“What else! Military donations, of course. With Anhui’s military situation urgent, Huizhou merchants’ military donations have been delayed a season. Must they be delayed another half year? No matter what, by month’s end each household must contribute military donations. Those who don’t donate will have houses, land deeds, or business shops confiscated. You now handle both the Provincial Treasurer’s military funding duties and serve as Huizhou Prefect – this matter falls under your direct management. If collection fails by deadline and military affairs are delayed, I’ll hold you solely responsible.”

Gu Pingyuan was shocked and couldn’t help speaking: “Lord Provincial Governor, Huizhou merchants truly have difficulties now. Tea cannot be sold and livelihoods are already difficult – where is money for military donations?”

Yuan Jiasan looked at him angrily: “Gu Pingyuan! How dare you, a common citizen, interrupt when I’m discussing official business with officers? Considering your previous gun purchase service, I’ll overlook this. You say tea cannot be sold, but this Beijing merchant Li here has come to Huizhou to buy tea, saying he’ll buy however much is available, yet you won’t sell. How can you still claim it won’t sell?”

“The Beijing merchants’ tea prices don’t even reach thirty percent of previous years’ rates. How can Huizhou merchants sell at such prices? I beseech your lordship’s clear judgment!”

“Hmph, you merchants think only of profit, never satisfied no matter how much you earn. In these times of war and chaos, you still dream of peacetime tea prices – truly insatiable.” Yuan Jiasan looked disgusted. “In any case, this matter concerns military provisions and is no joke. Those who don’t donate by deadline will have their shops and tea gardens sealed and sold by the government.”

“Rest assured, my lord. Beijing merchants will certainly contribute our utmost. If needed to purchase these properties, the Li family accepts this responsibility without hesitation.”

“You hear that? The Beijing Li family shows true understanding of righteousness. You’re local merchants called ‘Hui’ merchants – why don’t you know to share the imperial court’s burdens!” Yuan Jiasan, looking at Gu Pingyuan, thought of the three thousand foreign guns gained and lost, filling him with anger. Not allowing explanation, he stood and went directly to the back hall. A secretary who’d been waiting followed, apparently saying something, as Yuan Jiasan’s annoyed roar could be heard: “Now they bring these matters to me too – am I not bothered enough already?”

Li Qin quietly watched Gu Pingyuan, only now rising and slowly walking before Gu Pingyuan with a mocking smile.

“I must thank you properly this time.”

“Thank me?” Gu Pingyuan couldn’t fathom what this young master was thinking.

“You probably thought I’d be furious about those foreign guns, but you’re wrong. Even if I’d helped the Provincial Governor obtain that batch of guns, it would only have been icing on the cake. As the old saying goes, ‘Catching a rabbit on New Year’s Eve – would we not celebrate New Year without it?’ But you helping the Dongting Merchant Guild truly surprised me. I told Provincial Governor Yuan that on the surface it’s you, Gu Pingyuan, but behind it are Huizhou merchants deliberately opposing him to curry favor with Provincial Governor Li Hongzhang and open current stagnant tea sales routes.”

“If you were Provincial Governor Yuan, hearing that your province’s merchants were helping another province’s governor, wouldn’t you be angry? I took the opportunity to suggest this idea. Previously, he might have shown mercy considering Huizhou merchants’ ‘Hui’ character, but now Provincial Governor Yuan has no such kindness.” Li Qin smiled and patted Gu Pingyuan’s shoulder. “I thought achieving this would take at least two months of grinding work, but your gun purchase for Li Hongzhang also helped me greatly.”

“Now Huizhou merchants face death whether they donate or not. Go back and advise that old man surnamed Hu to simply sell his tea to me – at least he can preserve some livelihood.”

Li Qin laughed heartily as he left, leaving Gu Pingyuan standing there dumbfounded.

Qiao Henian had heard every word of their conversation. He sighed inwardly, knowing Huizhou merchants’ persistent difficulties had finally encountered an insurmountable obstacle. He turned to see the secretary who’d entered earlier standing at the back hall door with a worried expression, and walked over to ask: “Secretary Zhong, what matter made the Provincial Governor so furious?”

Secretary Zhong recognized Qiao Henian and was glad to complain: “Provincial Governor Yuan’s nephew had a son and wanted him to name the child – just to share some good fortune. But Lord Yuan was in a bad mood and flatly refused. I don’t know how to explain this to them.”

Qiao Henian thought a moment and smiled: “Secretary Zhong, how can such a clever person handle things so straightforwardly? Since it’s a small matter, there’s no need to trouble the Provincial Governor. Just pick any name and report back – surely you don’t fear Provincial Governor Yuan won’t acknowledge it later?”

“Oh.” Secretary Zhong also laughed. “In that case, since one matter shouldn’t trouble two masters, please give the name, Lord Qiao.”

Qiao Henian asked about the Yuan family naming sequence after Yuan Jiasan – “Protecting Generations, Overcoming Family, Aspiring Culture, Continuing Military” – and learned this child belonged to the “Shi” generation. He pondered: “Since we’re currently fighting the Taipings, let’s choose something auspicious. How about the character ‘Kai’?”

“Yuan Shikai…” Secretary Zhong repeated it twice and smiled with satisfaction. “Good name – I can report back now.”

After walking a few steps, he turned back: “Lord Qiao, don’t think Provincial Governor Yuan is making excuses. These two words ‘military provisions’ are his greatest worry. He trusts that newly surrendered Cheng Xueqi, distributing all foreign guns and cannons to his subordinates, angering the Green Standard and Banner forces who daily crowd the military supply office demanding pay. If this drags on, there might be mutiny – not just Anhui province would be ruined. If the greater situation is damaged, how could the imperial court spare Provincial Governor Yuan? Losing his position would be the least concern. Currently, Provincial Treasurer Bu He is standing aside watching the show. So don’t take the Provincial Governor’s orders lightly – it’s not worth causing unpleasantness at this juncture.”

“I understand. Thank you for the guidance, brother.” Qiao Henian cupped his hands in thanks, then pulled Gu Pingyuan along. “No time to waste – let’s hurry back to Huizhou for discussions.”

“My Hu family doesn’t matter – when a great ship rots, three thousand nails remain. We can afford the military donation of tens of thousands of taels. But those small tea merchants and tea farmers – some need eight or ten thousand, others at least a thousand taels – they truly cannot produce it. If my Hu family were to pay for all these thousands of households, even dismantling these old bones couldn’t cover it.” Old Master Hu sighed with furrowed brow.

Several people sat around the warm brazier in the flower hall, all wearing the same worried expressions. Gu Pingyuan and Qiao Henian rushed to Tianshou Garden in Xiuning, and upon explaining the situation involving all Huizhou merchants, Old Master Hu couldn’t decide alone. He invited several stewards from the Huizhou Merchant Guild, plus Wang Cunyi from Qimen, Boss Ning from Lu’an, and Second Master Hou to discuss together.

“Lord Qiao, at this point we can only beg you. As the handling official, could you speak favorably for us before the Provincial Governor and grant some time extension?” Boss Ning drank a sip of strong tea and consulted with Qiao Henian.

“Gentlemen, I’m not being unreasonable, and as a local official, with Brother Gu here as my friend, we’ve considered every possible solution. This matter affects the Provincial Governor’s future – I can petition, but it will certainly be useless. Until this military donation enters the provincial treasury, Provincial Governor Yuan cannot sleep peacefully, and none of you can rest easy either.” Qiao Henian’s expression was earnest as he spoke slowly as to close friends. “Boils must eventually come to a head. I understand Huizhou merchants’ current situation – competing with merchants from other provinces is like sitting idle and consuming resources without income. Even if I obtained time extensions, what use would it be? By then, Huizhou merchants’ resources would be even less than now. Better to grit your teeth and donate this money while you still have usable silver. As for money to maintain business and livelihood, find other solutions. Personal matters can always be worked out, but if you stubbornly refuse to donate and anger Provincial Governor Yuan, the consequences would be difficult to manage.”

Though Qiao Henian spoke very clearly, Gu Pingyuan was quite unconvinced.

“Lord Qiao, I don’t understand something and ask for instruction. Since our Great Qing’s Sacred Ancestor Emperor Kangxi established ‘never increasing taxes,’ the government has the right to use fish-scale registers for forced taxation, but regarding ‘donations’ – how can there be forced coercion? Provincial Governor Yuan’s forceful pressure – isn’t he afraid censors will learn of this and impeach him?”

Gu Pingyuan felt his question was reasonable and expected the Huizhou merchant leaders present to voice agreement, but instead met with silence.

After a long quiet, Wang Cunyi, seated in the second position of honor, finally spoke: “Your ignorance of this matter is understandable. This dates to former Provincial Governor Jiang Zhongyuan’s tenure. When Anhui had seventy percent of its land controlled by Taipings and tea harvesting was nearly abandoned, imperial taxation couldn’t stop. Lord Jiang was truly a good official – he actively negotiated with Huizhou merchants, saying he’d memorialize the court to temporarily exempt Huizhou merchants from three years’ taxation, but when Anhui was pacified and tea gardens could operate normally, this taxation would be paid as military donations in installments over years.”

Old Master Hu interjected: “Meeting such a good official, what could we say? I led twenty Huizhou merchants in signing contracts with Provincial Governor Jiang. This matter is officially recorded and known to the court, so Provincial Governor Yuan acts correctly and fears no censorial impeachment.” Old Master Hu sighed deeply. “That year when Anqing fell, Lord Jiang died for his country in Anhui. For this reason alone, we Huizhou merchants cannot default on this debt – it bears a loyal minister’s blood.”

Only then did Gu Pingyuan fully understand – this was an old debt owed, and now with military provisions urgent, Yuan Jiasan as the succeeding Provincial Governor wanted to collect this money. No one could find fault with this.

“Uncle.” Second Master Hou tentatively said, “In my view, stubborn resistance isn’t the way now. A wise man doesn’t court immediate disaster, so perhaps…” He glanced at Old Master Hu’s expression. “We should sell the tea to Beijing merchants. Though the price is low, it’s better than letting it mold and turn stale in storage.”

Old Master Hu stared daggers at Second Master Hou, stood up and slowly walked before him: “I didn’t hear clearly what you just said. Say it again.”

“Uncle! I was thinking…” Second Master Hou was about to explain when Old Master Hu flew into a rage, raising his large pipe bowl to strike him: “You bastard! I swore an oath to heaven right here in Tianshou Garden with all the Huizhou merchants that we would absolutely not do this business with Beijing merchants. Are you deaf? How dare you urge me to break my oath! I, I…” Old Master Hu was so angry his beard bristled and his eyes glared straight ahead. He shouted to the guild stewards: “Come, let’s all go to the guild to convene everyone and open the incense hall to expel this faithless, disloyal wretch from the Huizhou merchants.”

“Uncle, I was wrong, I won’t dare again.” Second Master Hou was truly frightened. His entire livelihood depended on the Huizhou merchant reputation. Once expelled by the Hu family and removed from the merchant rolls, not to mention his share in the Hu family business would be gone, no one would do business with him in the future.

“Old Master, please spare Brother Hou for my sake. He hasn’t actually done business with Beijing merchants – just offered a suggestion. The speaker bears no guilt, the speaker bears no guilt.” Gu Pingyuan quickly came to mediate, giving Second Master Hou a meaningful look. Seeing Gu Pingyuan rescue him, and that Old Master Hu trusted him even more than his own nephew, Second Master Hou felt sour inside. He secretly gritted his teeth and turned to leave through the main gate.

“Sigh!” Old Master Hu sat in his chair breathing heavily for a long time. “My nephew is worthless, but he spoke one truth. Currently facing difficulties both inside and out, continued stubborn resistance truly cannot be sustained. Rather than wait until desperate straits to submit surrender papers, better to negotiate terms while we can.”

“You mean they are…” Wang Cunyi asked hesitantly.

“From my information, tea merchants from all regions are now gathered in Hangzhou. They’re not unwilling to buy tea, but waiting for Huizhou merchants to yield so they can drive prices to the lowest point. Actually, they’re also anxious – tea drinkers everywhere can’t get new tea, and they’re losing untold silver daily. Just based on this, we have the right to negotiate prices. Moreover…” Old Master Hu pointed to his own face. “I, Hu Tailai, have not only these old bones but also this old face. This time I’ll sacrifice my dignity and personally petition various tea merchants. If nothing else works, I’ll even kowtow to them. Seeing my age, they might yield a bit and raise their hands to let Huizhou merchants pass this crisis.”

These words made everyone’s hearts ache. The three characters “Hu Tailai” were a resounding trademark in the Qing Dynasty’s commercial world – he’d never yielded in his lifetime, yet now for the sake of Huizhou merchants he would go to such lengths. It was truly heartbreaking.

Boss Ning sat with a dark expression, swallowing strong tea gulp by gulp, his mouth pressed into a line. Wang Cunyi felt his chest tighten, reaching for his teacup as two tears fell to the ground. Everyone present had reddened eyes.

Gu Pingyuan stood stunned for a long moment, then stamped his feet and walked quickly from the flower hall to the rear courtyard pond, looking up at the sky and forcing back tears.

“I heard Old Master Min say you have several matters weighing on your mind since returning to Huizhou.” Qiao Henian had somehow followed him out and stood behind Gu Pingyuan.

Gu Pingyuan laughed bitterly: “I’ve already botched the first matter. I promised Old Master Hu to sell Huizhou tea at a good price, but now it’s come to the old master personally begging others. I truly have no face to see him.”

“Calm yourself and listen to me.” Qiao Henian paced behind him, speaking slowly. “Your desire to help Huizhou merchants sell tea at good prices is absolutely correct, because only by selling Huizhou tea and obtaining military donation silver can Anhui’s Qing forces fight with peace of mind, restraining Chen Yucheng’s Taiping army. This way you’d also fulfill your promise to Hu Xueyan. With Chen Yucheng unable to return to aid Tianjing, the situation in Anhui becomes one of neither war nor peace. With Hong Xiuquan lacking this strong reinforcement, given Zeng Guofan’s command, Zeng Guoquan’s bravery, Zuo Zongtang’s strategy, and Li Hongzhang’s intelligence, Nanjing’s recovery is imminent. When that time comes, Chen Yucheng, having lost his object of loyalty, will inevitably surrender to the court. Then Bai Yimei can not only preserve her life but expect wealth and honor.”

“In the end, this whole chain of events hinges on one thing – selling tea!”

Qiao Henian’s analysis was penetrating and illuminating. Gu Pingyuan felt like drinking ice water under blazing sun – immediately his ears were clear and eyes bright. “You’re right. Since returning to Huizhou, I’ve been constrained in everything I do, all because Huizhou tea is difficult to sell.” Gu Pingyuan paced around the pond twice, then said resolutely: “Old Master Hu is already in his twilight years – we cannot let him take the lead no matter what. Huizhou merchants haven’t reached the point where we can’t find anyone to handle affairs. I’ll definitely make this trip, though I’m uncertain whether I can succeed. Could Lord Qiao accompany me to Hangzhou? You’re a fourth-rank circuit intendant – I think those tea merchants will show some respect.”

“Raising funds is my proper duty, and now this matter connects with Huizhou merchants selling tea. I cannot shirk responsibility.” Qiao Henian agreed immediately.

His ready agreement surprised Gu Pingyuan, who couldn’t help glancing at him.

“You seem to have something to say.”

“Lord Qiao, don’t take offense at what I’m about to say.”

Qiao Henian smiled and nodded at him.

“Since returning from beyond the pass twice, you seem much changed.” Gu Pingyuan said with deep feeling. “Initially in Mongolia, you never put down your books and were aloof. Somehow, thinking back now, I feel you were easier to deal with then.”

“I know.” Qiao Henian’s voice was somewhat muffled. “Perhaps this is the face of those in official circles – sometimes the closer you get, the less clearly you see, even in the mirror, you don’t recognize yourself.”

“That sounds rather Zen-like.” Seeing his single comment evoke such sentiment, Gu Pingyuan joked.

“Ha, one of us in official circles, one in business – the saying ‘hearts corrupted by profit and desire’ refers precisely to us two. What talk of Zen meditation? Truly laughable.” Qiao Henian’s eyes flashed, then he relaxed and joined the joking.

Gu Pingyuan exhausted his persuasive powers, bringing up Old Master Hu’s previous words: “Gu family tea gardens are now joint ventures with the Hu family – sharing weal and woe as one family.” Old Master Hu thought that since he’d said Gu Pingyuan could represent the Hu family in liaising with Huizhou merchants, he couldn’t go back on his word. Reluctantly, he agreed to let Gu Pingyuan and Qiao Henian represent the Hu family and Huizhou merchants in negotiations with various merchant houses in Hangzhou.

The two departed that very night, taking New’an River tributaries to the Grand Canal. Most of Zhejiang had been recovered by Li Hongzhang’s forces, making waterways completely peaceful. In just three days, their boat reached Hangzhou’s Gongchen Bridge. Seeing the city gate ahead, Gu Pingyuan suddenly had the boatman stop at the shore.

“Why did the boat stop?” Qiao Henian came from the rear cabin to ask. Though evening was approaching and they could present calling cards to request gate opening, this would be quite troublesome – better to enter while the water gate remained open.

“I’ve been thinking about the news Liu Heita gathered from Xinyang.” Gu Pingyuan leaned against the boat rail, gazing at the crescent moon just rising in the sky. “Beijing merchants boast greatly, saying within a year they can have England’s monarch drinking tea they’ve transported. This shows they plan to trade massive quantities, and being so confident, they must have found buyers.”

“So they’re eager to collect tea in Huizhou for substantial profit.”

Gu Pingyuan shook his head slightly: “I feel it’s more than that. Behind Li Qin stands Li Wantang – I experienced that man’s sinister scheming in Beijing. He’s arrogant and conducts truly major business. If it were merely for tea profits, he wouldn’t send his son to expend such effort.”

“Didn’t Old Master Hu say this tea has nothing to do with Beijing merchants – just find other buyers? Since that’s so, why worry about so much? Enter Hangzhou city, sell the tea, and be done with it. Whether Beijing merchants or the Li family, overthinking is useless.”

Gu Pingyuan couldn’t let go of this concern: “No, I must make a trip to Shanghai.”

This startling statement shocked Qiao Henian: “Time is so tight – instead of going to Hangzhou to sell tea, why run to Shanghai?”

“I don’t know.” Gu Pingyuan answered honestly. “I just feel that without understanding what Beijing merchants truly intend, even if all Huizhou tea is sold, I won’t have peace of mind. Moreover, that Li Qin will make trouble behind the scenes. Even if we negotiate successful deals, they might come to nothing. Don’t forget how I gained and lost those three thousand foreign guns.”

This reasoning left Qiao Henian uncertain. After frowning in thought, he asked: “Going to Shanghai will clarify Beijing merchants’ intentions?”

“Beijing merchants conducting such major business cannot avoid dealing with the foreign settlement.”

But things weren’t as simple as Gu Pingyuan suggested. Both he and Qiao Henian were newcomers to Shanghai. Though Qiao Henian’s official rank matched that of Wu Xu, who administered Shanghai affairs, Shanghai was foreigner territory where Qing official ranks carried no weight.

“Two gentlemen, do you see that?” The hired cart driver slowed down passing a two-story building by the Huangpu River, pointing upward. “Let me tell you gentlemen about a Western spectacle. Can you guess what this place is?”

Gu Pingyuan examined it carefully. The building’s exterior appeared unremarkable – Western architecture with doors directly facing the street. Wall bricks bore carved images of robed Westerners. The second floor had balconies with glass windows, but doors and windows were tightly shut, covered completely by thick dark red curtains.

As Gu Pingyuan studied it, the first floor door suddenly opened. Two Western children rushed out, laughing and playing, followed by a barrel-waisted woman standing in the doorway, loudly scolding in some foreign tongue.

“Looks like a Western residence.” Gu Pingyuan said, with Qiao Henian nodding agreement.

“You’re wrong, gentlemen. Hold tight – don’t be startled by what I tell you.”

“Why the mystery? Speak quickly – it’s just a Western house after all. What’s so remarkable?”

Gu Pingyuan’s deliberate provocation worked. The driver couldn’t contain himself: “Hey, Western house? That’s the Governor-General of Jiangnan and Jiangxi’s temporary residence.”

Indeed, both Gu and Qiao were startled, then burst into laughter simultaneously.

“They say Westerners are cunning as oil. You’ve probably dealt with them too much and think we’re country bumpkins, telling such outrageous lies. Governor-General Zeng Guofan is currently supervising battles outside Nanjing city. Even if he came to Shanghai, he’d naturally stay at official guesthouses – how could he live among Westerners?”

“I knew you wouldn’t believe me. The resident isn’t Lord Zeng, but Lord He.” The driver said calmly.

“Lord He?” Qiao Henian thought a moment. “You mean former Governor-General He Guiqing?”

“Exactly.” The driver nodded. “Seeing this gentleman’s official robes, you probably know Lord He’s current situation.”

“He lost the provincial capital and while fleeing ordered his personal guards to shoot and kill over ten civilians who begged him to stay and maintain order. Therefore the court issued strict orders for his arrest.” Qiao Henian naturally knew such juicy official gossip.

“So he fled here to live with Westerners. He rents the second floor and never comes out, only paying servants to buy food and cook. Court soldiers guard outside day and night but can’t enter, because the first floor is Western territory. Trespassing on Western residences could cause incidents that even the Emperor and Empress Dowager would find troublesome.”

Gu Pingyuan and Qiao Henian exchanged glances, secretly amazed. First, they marveled at Western power – any ordinary household could shelter court criminals while officials remained helpless. Second, Shanghai’s foreign settlement atmosphere had influenced even common people to speak carelessly of the Emperor and Empress Dowager – unimaginable in other provinces.

Both being newcomers to the foreign settlement, they had to ask the driver about various rules. According to him, Westerners actually had few rules – if you didn’t provoke them, they were quite reasonable, but if you did, it was terrible. Whether official or civilian, if handed to foreign police, you’d certainly get a whipping. Recently, an expectant circuit intendant thought a Western garden looked nice and entered wearing official boots. When the foreign steward scolded him, he remained defiant, muttering about “all under heaven being the emperor’s land.” He was immediately knocked down and beaten until his buttocks bloomed. Not only was his official dignity swept away, but when sent to the circuit intendant’s office, Wu Xu, annoyed at his troublemaking, cancelled a position he was about to receive.

“So gentlemen, don’t trespass. To inquire about anything, best prepare proper calling cards for requests. Whether Western gentlemen will see you depends on your fortune.”

Clearly this was Qing territory, yet they had to endure Western airs. But there was no choice – with their strong ships and powerful cannons, with warships anchored in the Huangpu River, they truly had the final word. Gu Pingyuan had to swallow his pride and visit Western commercial houses with Qiao Henian.

Gu Pingyuan had expected dealing with Westerners wouldn’t be easy, but he hadn’t anticipated such extreme difficulty. Since Shanghai’s opening, locals first feared these Western merchants, then discovered they actually valued “honesty” in business more than Chinese, so various swindling schemes proliferated. The biggest case involved a group that organized fraud, impersonating Imperial Household Department procurement officers, claiming to rebuild the Old Summer Palace, obtaining three hundred thousand taels worth of timber on credit from Western merchants, then heading north via the Grand Canal planning to sell stolen goods in Beijing. They were exposed in Tianjin. Since then, Western merchants had been wary of Qing officials and civilians, reluctant to deal with unfamiliar traders. Qiao Henian was especially rejected, told they had no previous dealings and couldn’t receive him.

After three fruitless days, even Gu Pingyuan felt discouraged and planned to abandon this idea for Hangzhou. Just as he was settling his inn bill at the counter, someone suddenly approached and bowed: “Isn’t this Boss Gu from Huizhou? Long time no see.”

Gu Pingyuan looked but only found the face familiar, unable to remember immediately.

“You’re so forgetful – I was Mr. Richard’s interpreter then.” The man smiled.

“Oh.” Gu Pingyuan remembered, though no names had been exchanged, so he didn’t know how to address him.

“My surname is Xu – I’m an interpreter at the commercial house.”

“Interpreter Xu, is Mr. Richard also here?”

“Hehe.” Interpreter Xu laughed. “Boss Gu probably doesn’t know our interpretation rules. Commercial house interpreters aren’t permanently employed by specific Western merchants but hired temporarily. When Mr. Richard was going to Huizhou, I happened to be from Huizhou and had business there, so I took that job.”

“So we’re fellow Huizhou natives.” Gu Pingyuan also smiled. “In that case, I won’t be polite. Interpreter Xu, could you arrange for me to meet this Western merchant Richard? I want to ask him about some matters.”

“No problem. Last time, Boss Gu didn’t embarrass him publicly – Mr. Richard was actually grateful. When I reported your saying ‘though business fails, friendship remains,’ he praised it highly. I think he’ll be willing to see you.”

Indeed, as Interpreter Xu said, Richard readily agreed to meet Gu Pingyuan at a restaurant serving Russian cuisine on the Bund. Entering a Western restaurant was another new experience for Gu Pingyuan. Fortunately, Interpreter Xu was there to guide him, preventing embarrassment. Only the knife and fork were truly unusable, so he simply put down his chopsticks and didn’t eat, focusing entirely on dealing with Richard.

Interpreter Xu wanted to help Gu Pingyuan, so he’d extensively praised beforehand, saying Qiao Henian ranked equally with Shanghai’s highest official, while Gu Pingyuan was his best friend. Therefore Richard didn’t dare slight them. After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s purpose, he held a glass of brandy, stopping without drinking, clearly thinking seriously.

“Boss Gu, I know exactly what you’re asking about. However, it involves another British merchant – in other words, commercial secrets. Her Majesty the Queen has long ordered that overseas merchants not undermine each other. So regrettably, though I could help, I can only watch you leave disappointed.”

Gu Pingyuan was initially overjoyed hearing his opening, but the more he listened, the more wrong it sounded – wasn’t this clearly hitting a wall?

Qiao Henian coughed: “Mr. Richard, we’ve come to raise military funds. Since you trade with the court and have sent envoys to Beijing, you should naturally help the court suppress this great rebellion.”

“No, no, no.” Richard shook his head repeatedly. “Speaking of which, that Mr. Hong Xiuquan also worships God – his heart connects more closely with ours. The British consul has warned British merchants not to favor either the Qing Dynasty or Taiping Kingdom – this is Chinese internal strife, and we help neither side.”

Qiao Henian sneered: “That’s strange talk – you clearly just sold three thousand foreign guns to the Qing, yet claim to help neither side.”

“That’s different. I sold foreign guns to Chinese merchants – where you sell them is none of my business.” Richard shrugged.

Seeing his repeated evasions, Gu Pingyuan was naturally anxious. Before deciding on tactics, he saw Interpreter Xu wink at him, first shaking one hand at his side, then making a money gesture.

Gu Pingyuan suddenly understood, raising his brandy glass to toast Richard.

“Mr. Richard, though I’ve never been to your country, one principle has remained unchanging throughout history and presumably applies worldwide – merchants all hope for peace under heaven, as only then can business be done. Now with Taiping rebels causing chaos and people’s livelihood destroyed, rather than sitting on the mountain watching tigers fight, why not help the court? China has a saying about ‘friends in adversity’ – friendships made at such times are more precious than anything. When the court pacifies this great rebellion, all who helped will naturally be rewarded.”

Interpreter Xu translated Gu Pingyuan’s words. Richard nodded repeatedly, appearing extremely moved, though his face still showed some hesitation.

Gu Pingyuan continued: “As for your saying Britain’s Queen forbids merchants from undermining each other, that’s easily handled. Speaking from my position, if you help with this favor, I can supply you with five thousand jin of finest Huizhou tea each season hereafter – prices are all negotiable.”

Richard’s face immediately showed surprise and delight. He was a British army veteran who’d come East to do business relying on military connections. With Britain currently embargoing military supplies to China, his business was failing, yet he was reluctant to leave this land of gold. He wanted to switch to other trades, but silk, tea, porcelain, and spices – the four most profitable trade goods – were monopolized by the East India Company. He was seeking connections when Gu Pingyuan appeared.

“If you just nod, we can conduct joint business hereafter. Since it’s family business, your protecting Huizhou merchant interests protects your own interests. Even if someone reports you, it certainly won’t matter.”

Richard took a deep breath, looking at Gu Pingyuan appreciatively: “You speak very well – as you say, ‘your calculations are very precise.’ However, I must sign a contract first before telling you the inside story.”

This was manageable. Shanghai had several large shops opened by Huizhou merchants. With Old Master Hu’s letter, Gu Pingyuan easily found guarantors and signed a contract with Richard for five thousand jin of tea twice yearly under witness.

Richard was now greatly excited, beaming with joy. He took the initiative to host them, changing to another foreign restaurant with much better dishes than before. Gu Pingyuan and Qiao Henian exchanged smiles, both feeling Westerners weren’t too difficult to deal with – they simply sought profit and were more practical.

Still the same four people, after three rounds of drinks, they began discussing business. Richard admitted that due to the arms embargo, he’d wanted to switch to tea trading, so he’d investigated many insider dealings between the East India Company and Chinese merchants, much obtained by bribing commercial house servants – even contract copies existed.

“The East India Company representative dealing with Beijing merchants this time is called Thompson, an assistant sent to the Qing Dynasty who specializes in tea trading. I heard he went to Beijing to negotiate contracts with a merchant surnamed Li. I originally had a copy, but fearing discovery and reports to the consul, I burned it after reading.”

“Do you remember the contents?” Gu Pingyuan was somewhat disappointed.