Qiang Jin Jiu (Author : Tang Jiuqing 唐酒卿)

Chapter 106 : Crude

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Shen Zechuan was unable to bring 2 million this trip, but he brought sincerity. Lei Changming looked at those few chests of silvers. They were all genuine stuff, stacked neatly in order. He grabbed a handful at random to get a feel of that heavy weight and said, “These few chests of silver are something that even the brothers under my command selling sugared biscuits can produce. Aren’t you looking down on me a tad too much?” 

“The chief might not necessarily dare to accept it if I had really brought over 2 million.” Shen Zechuan had already taken his seat. He said, “Good deals are worth discussing over slowly. The ones who should be anxious at present are Cizhou and Xiao Chiye.”

Lei Changming waved a hand to get his men to drag Kong Ling out of the tent, leaving only his own guards and Shen Zechuan behind. From start to end, he remained unwilling to leave his seat. Without taking even half a step closer to Shen Zechuan, he said, “You and Xiao Chiye broke out of the siege in Qudu. You could be considered sworn friends who have been through life and death, so why did you fall out with him suddenly and come to beg me instead?” 

“Since the chief knows of me, then you must have also known that Shen Wei is my old man. Shen Wei let the enemies into Dunzhou and caused a long-standing grudge to form between me and Libei. Xiao Chiye and I may be able to bury the hatchet, but Xiao Jiming may not necessarily be willing to use me.” Shen Zechuan looked troubled. “A man’s aspiration is to make a name for himself. Xiao Chiye is like a clay Buddha crossing the river who can’t even save himself. So how would he have the energy to carve out a path for me? There is some misunderstanding between me and His Excellency Han, but those are all minor issues that do not warrant the death penalty. As long as someone can vouch for me, I’ll be able to return to Qudu to serve the Imperial Court again.” 

“So that means you still want to be an official, huh?” With both hands on his knees, Lei Changming said, “Brother, to tell you the truth, I want to be an official too. We used to hang out in the mountains and wilderness back then, and we lived pretty much a carefree life. But when all is said and done, it’s not a proper job. Every single one of our movements will come under close scrutiny by the Qidong Garrison Troops.” 

“The chief and I have a common goal.” Shen Zechuan lifted his little bamboo fan slightly. “Isn’t this just perfect?” 

“But, I’ve been deceived by scholars like you until it scares me now.” Lei Changming put on a look of dread. “This 2 million of yours are still in Cizhou. How are you going to get it to me? And that Han Jin too. How are you going to help me save him? Make yourself clear today, so I know how things stand. Only then can I truly take you under me.”  

“The silver is not an issue. The chief can pick a trusted man to go to Cizhou and ask Zhou Gui for the money. He knows where the silvers are kept. As long as you can move it, you can take the money away now.“  

“You think he would be willing to give me if I ask him for it?” Lei Changming rubbed his fingers together, as if he still wanted to touch those silvers. 

“You have Kong Ling in your hands. That’s Zhou Gui’s trusted aide.” Shen Zechuan said with a smile. “You have 40,000 soldiers and horses too. How would Zhou Gui not dare to give you? He always wanted to be a good official who loves his people like his children. He won’t infuriate you at this critical juncture.”      

Lei Changming looked at Shen Zechuan, as if he was getting a measure of him. The tent quietened down. It was all Lei Changming’s guards to Shen Zechuan’s left and right. He touched the teacup, but did not drink up. In this long stand-off, Lei Changming suddenly laughed and said, “I have ample reserve supplies. I’m not in a hurry to ask for money. It doesn’t matter if this 2 million is left there for a few more days. Men, serve tea to Young Master Shen. Our top priority is to discuss how to save Han Jin. after all, our meeting of Han Cheng in Qudu hinges on him.”