Blossom In Adversity - Vol. 2

C238. Slipping Through the Net.

Chapter 238: Slipping Through the Net

"I've inquired at the medical clinic, sir. The physician, upon hearing that you required this information, didn't dare to withhold anything. He said that the person was rendered unconscious by a knockout drug and is still in a deep sleep. It seems they've become wary, and won't meet with anyone today."

Zheng Qing bowed deeply, his face full of deference as he reported to the seated man. The man was of short stature, with the dark complexion typical of locals, but his face was powdered, creating an unnatural blend of dark and light.

This man was none other than Zheng Bei, the younger brother-in-law of Mu Yunyang, the governor of Jingzhou, and the owner of the Zheng family's shipping business. As the youngest and only son in the family, he had been doted on and spoiled since childhood, developing a habit of getting whatever he wanted. Now, upon hearing that a lucrative deal from out of town had been snatched up by the Donglai Trading Company, how could he not be resentful?

In Jingzhou, any business from outsiders, whether it was his or not, would eventually become his.

But since the person was ill, he could afford to wait. There was no hurry, after all.

"Keep a close eye on her. Tomorrow, I'll go and pay her a personal visit." The rumors had spread throughout the city about how outstanding this person looked. He had to see for himself just how extraordinary they were.

Zheng Qing responded and withdrew, sending someone to keep watch at the inn. Compared to this trivial matter, there was a more important task that would please his master.

The next day, Hua Zhi left at the appointed time. Her luggage had been sent out the previous night by Yu Tao. She didn't bother to check out of the inn but led her people straight out, instructing Xiao Liu to go to the wharf first while she went shopping in the market. By the time she arrived at the wharf, Chen Er had already unloaded all the goods.

Seeing her, Chen Er grinned from ear to ear, respectfully leading her towards the ship.

Hua Zhi seemed to ask casually, "Are we leaving now or...?"

"Any time, are all your people here?"

"They're here, let's go."

"Alright."

The boat slowly left the shore, with Hua Zhi standing at the bow watching the docks gradually recede. She wasn't sure if this would really avoid the situation. After settling the matter with the suppliers, she would have to come back here to take the passenger boat back to the capital, hoping by then the Zheng family had calmed down.

She wasn't afraid of the others here. With her solid footing in the Donglai shipping business, she didn't care about idle onlookers. She just needed to avoid the Zheng family. As long as she hadn't offended them, even if they were angry, they wouldn't dare to confront Donglai Shipping and harm both parties.

On the other side, Zheng Qing angrily scolded his subordinate, "Is this how you watch people? They've already left and now you're telling me? How am I going to explain this to the master?"

The subordinate trembled in pain, trying to defend himself in a weak voice, "They left without taking anything, they even had about ten days left on their room fees. I thought they were just going to the city and would come back to discuss some other business. I didn't expect them to board the ship. Zheng Supervisor, please help me plead with the master, please help me..."

The subordinate kowtowed to Zheng Supervisor, who felt a mix of satisfaction and irritation. He was asking for mercy, but how could he do it alone?

He needed someone to help him beg for mercy!

As expected, as soon as Zheng Bei heard him out, he smashed a glass and kicked Zheng Supervisor to the ground, "Useless, all useless, can't even keep an eye on one person."

Zheng Supervisor endured the pain, got up and knelt again, "I've checked, they came from the capital. The only passenger ship to and from the capital is the Zhengyang. They will have to come back here sooner or later. I've arranged for someone to watch at the docks, we will surely catch them."

Zheng Bei snorted, feeling both angry and annoyed. They dared to run away, disrespecting the Zheng family like this!

"If you let anyone escape again, you better jump into the Wei River yourself, so I don't have to bother to deal with it."

"Yes, yes, I will make sure to keep watch."

*

Shuiguang Village was the largest village in the area, with the salty sea breeze blowing, carrying the taste of the sea in the air. It was nearing dusk, but the dock was still busy with people coming and going.

Hua Zhi didn't rush to leave the boat, instead strolling around the dock for some time. She didn't mind getting her shoes dirty.

She was lucky; the fish here looked plump and varied in species. The quantities seemed good too. She didn't have to worry about the capacity of this place when she expanded her business in the future.

Chen Er, on the other hand, was afraid someone might snatch this deal away. He followed closely behind Hua Zhi, leading people to the area where their fishing boat was docked, to showcase their strength.

"It's getting late. Let's rest for today and visit the master tomorrow."

Chen Er nodded understandingly and led the group to the only inn in the village. Because Shuiguang Village had many outsiders, Hua Zhi had no choice but to stay there.

The night passed without incident.

The inn was not far from Antai Fishing Company, just a short walk away. Chen Er was very cautious, arriving early in a horse-drawn carriage to respectfully escort them to the fishing company.

In terms of grandeur, the fishing company couldn't compare to Donglai Shipping, but the high roof structure gave it a majestic appearance. At first glance, Hua Zhi had a good impression of it.

Chen Er went to fetch the master while personally leading the guests to the reception hall. He also served tea without the help of others, saying, "Please wait a moment, the master will be here soon."

As he said that, footsteps were heard outside, approaching steadily. Remembering that Xia Hang had mentioned that Wu Zheng's family used to run a escort bureau, Hua Zhi thought this person probably had some martial arts skills, but when she saw the thin figure of Wu Zheng, she wasn't so sure.

Despite looking frail, Wu Zheng spoke with a loud voice, "I apologize for the long wait. I am Wu Zheng."

Hua Zhi stood up and gave a slight bow, "Just call me Miss Hua, Mr. Wu."

Wu Zheng glanced at the girl and then at Chen Er. Was this really about a business deal?

Chen Er nodded slightly. These past few days, he had done some inquiries in Zhengyang while delivering goods. It was said that this young lady had already made a deal with Donglai Shipping and had rented out a ship. The only thing missing was the merchandise, which their fishing company had in abundance.

Wu Zheng wouldn't have established such a big business if he were not careful. Besides, he knew Chen Er and understood that he wouldn't take risks without assurance.

With some reassurance, Wu Zheng became more sincere, "I don't beat around the bush. I'll get straight to the point. I heard from Chen Er that you need some goods, Miss Hua?"

"Yes, I was wondering what kind of goods Mr. Wu has here?"

"Haha, Miss Hua is straightforward. I like dealing with straightforward people." Wu Zheng stood up, "Why don't you follow me to the back and take a look?"

Hua Zhi had no reason to decline. She wanted to see the strength of Antai Fishing Company.

Wu Zheng led the group inside, crossing a corridor and a door, revealing a spacious area.

Hua Zhi's eyes lit up as she saw the interconnected ponds. Approaching them, she saw the fish swimming in the rolling waters. Some ponds were dark all over, while others had black and white patterns or were completely white. A rough count revealed there were around thirty ponds.