Getting A General
Two days later.
Yan Ge stepped down from the carriage, feeling the gaze upon him. He looked up and saw a young man standing by the window, looking down. With a faint smile, he entered Liuxian Pavilion.
Five people were already seated around the round table in Meixiang Hall, sipping tea. They were all handsome and elegant young men, around the age of twenty.
Yan Ge pushed the door open and entered, “I apologize for being late.”
The five stood up to greet him.
“Young Master Qin, it’s not your fault. We arrived early,” one of them said.
Yan Ge nodded and said, “Call me Brother Qin. May I know who each of you are?”
They introduced themselves one by one.
“I am Zhang Mo from ‘Pianran Tailoring Shop.’”
“I am Bai Jushen from ‘Xiangman Pavilion.’”
“I am Zhao Yun from ‘Zhao Family Brush Shop.’”
“I am Ye Ziyang from ‘Capital Clothings Shop.’”
“I am Kang Jian from ‘Kang’s Writing House.’”
Yan Ge matched each person’s name with the information he had gathered. “Nice to meet you all. Please have a seat. Let’s order our dishes and chat while we eat, shall we?”
They took their seats. Yan Ge handed the exquisite menu to Zhang Mo, who was seated on his right.
Having dined at Liuxian Pavilion frequently, they noticed that the food today was served faster than usual. But they didn’t think much of it and started discussing business after a few rounds of drinking.
Zhang Mo was the most talkative and spoke first, “I didn’t realize Young Master Qin was so young until I saw you today. I am a few years older than you, so if you don’t mind, may I call you Little Brother Qin?”
Yan Ge smiled and nodded, raising his cup. “Of course, I don’t mind, Brother Zhang. Let me toast to you first.”
Zhang Mo also raised his cup and smiled, “I should be the one toasting you. The name ‘Young Master Qin’ resounds throughout the capital, and you, Little Brother Qin, are truly remarkable. Please.”
Yan Ge chuckled, “I can’t compare to Bug Brother Zhang. Since you took charge of Pianran Tailoring Shop last year, the sales of ready-made garments have been soaring. When it comes to Pianran Tailoring Shop, everyone sings its praises.” He then took a sip of wine.
Upon hearing this, everyone realized that he had done his research on them. Despite his young age, he acted maturely, and they all put away any thoughts of underestimating him.
Zhao Yun said, “Young Master Qin, I am actually here on behalf of my father. My father, Zhao Dingshan, is the owner of the largest brush-making shop in the capital. He invited you a few days ago, but you were too busy to make time. Perhaps Young Master Qin doesn’t remember.”
The remark had a slightly sharp tone, implying some reproach. Yan Ge was a businessman and couldn’t possibly lack tolerance. He seemed oblivious to the sarcasm and said, “Since the establishment of the First Company, I have indeed been too occupied to spare time. I want to express my gratitude to Master Zhao for his understanding.”
Zhao Yun was left speechless, and he looked at the others.
Ye Ziyang laughed heartily with a hint of humor in his words, “I understand, I understand. Young Master Qin is busy with fountain pens one moment, snack shops the next, then toothpaste and toothbrushes, and now the tailoring shop. You’re truly bustling, but do take care of your health.”
Before Yan Ge could respond, Kang Jian chimed in, “I’ve just realized that the First Company is involved in food, clothing, and daily necessities. I’m curious, what are Young Master Qin’s plans for the next step?” It was obvious he was indirectly implying that Yan Ge wouldn’t leave any room for other businessmen.
Zhang Mo looked concerned, “It’s commendable that the First Company has grown and prospered, but with great success comes great attention. I’m afraid you’ve already gained some competitors. Young Master Qin, you should be cautious.”
Yan Ge’s sharp gaze swept across the faces of the others. It seemed they had conspired to confront him before his arrival. Zhang Mo played the emotional card, Zhao Yun was the main force, while Ye Ziyang and Kang Jian were in supporting roles. Only Bai Jushen from Xiangman Pavilion had not participated. Aside from the three toasts at the start of the banquet as a formality, he remained silent, his mood subdued, engrossed in pouring his own wine.
Yan Ge set down his chopsticks and toyed with his wine glass. “The reason I invited you all today is because I visited Pianran Tailor Shop yesterday, as well as Xiangman Pavilion, Zhao Family Brush Making Shop, Jingcheng Clothings Shop, and Kang Family Writing Shop.”
Zhang Mo and the others were not surprised. They knew that knowing oneself and one’s opponent was crucial, and they had also investigated Yan Ge.
Yan Ge changed the subject, “I once heard a story. Would any of you be interested in hearing it?”
Zhang Mo smiled, “Young Master Qin, please do share. I’m sure the story you’re about to tell us is extraordinary.”
Yan Ge took a sip of tea and slowly began his story, “Once upon a time, there was a man who owned a famous bun shop. He had a gentle wife and three sons, and their lives were very happy. However, everything changed when the three sons grew up. They all got married, and conflicts among the family members increased. They demanded to split the family and each open their own bun shop. The household became noisy with arguments every day.”
“In order to avoid further disputes among his sons and maintain family harmony, the old shop owner agreed to the division and copied the secret recipe for the bun filling into three identical portions. The original bun shop was given to the eldest son, and the other two sons opened their own bun shops with financial support. The second and third shops were exactly the same as the original one. As a result, there were three bun shops in the city selling the same buns.”
“Although the population in the city remained the same, the number of buns being sold increased, resulting in a decrease in sales for each shop. Therefore, all three businesses suffered. But the clever wife of the second son had a pair of skillful hands. She transformed the buns into cute animal shapes, and the sales of their bun shop started to increase again, becoming famous throughout the city. The eldest and the third sons were jealous and decided to follow their example. However, their wives didn’t have the same skillful hands. Before long, both of their bun shops closed down, while the second son’s shop stood strong and flourished.”
Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, and the others pondered the story, exchanging glances with different expressions.
Bai Jushen stared at Yan Ge without moving.
“Young Master Qin, what is the purpose of telling us this story?” Zhao Yun couldn’t hold back his impatience. “Are you implying that we can’t compete with you and will eventually be forced to close our businesses?”
Yan Ge didn’t explain, “Hehe, let’s eat. The dishes will get cold. Cold dishes are not tasty.”
Regardless of the four individuals’ reactions, he turned his gaze towards Bai Jushen. “Young Master Bai, as far as I am aware, you are an illegitimate son, and it seems life hasn’t been easy for you in the Bai family?”
Bai Jushen sneered and took a big gulp of wine. “I never expected Young Master Qin to take pleasure in poking at people’s scars.”
“Scars? Is that how Young Master Bai perceives it?” Yan Ge raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly. “I have never considered there to be any difference between a legitimate son and an illegitimate son. Even if one is to be blamed, it is not the fault of the illegitimate son himself. You see, one does not choose their own birth, but they do hold the power to shape their own future. If you want to go east, can anyone truly force you to go west? If that were the case, it would only be because you lack the courage.”
Bai Jushen set down his wine glass and stared at Yan Ge.
The wine in the glass splashed onto Yan Ge’s sleeve, leaving a conspicuous stain on his white attire. Yan Ge’s smile remained unchanged as he casually brushed his sleeve, causing the water stain to disappear without a trace. “Are you interested in working for me?”
Zhang Mo and the others looked surprised.
Yan Ge continued, “You didn’t have a chance to be involved in the Bai family’s business originally. The reason you sent me the invitation was because your elder brother believed that my background was profound and convincing me would be impossible. So he deliberately recommended you to your father. There’s no need to look at me with a guarded gaze, these things are easy to find out, aren’t they?”
The wariness In Bai Jushen’s eyes gradually faded, and he fell silent.
Yan Ge leisurely waved his folding fan. “The Bai family’s wealth is not insignificant, but has Young Master Bai ever considered creating your own wealth? Perhaps even more than what the Bai family possesses? Here, no one will suppress you, and no one will plot against you. You can fully unleash your business talents.”
Having said what needed to be said, Yan Ge refrained from further words. “Everyone, please. We are all young individuals, there is no need to be overly concerned with formalities. Let’s relax.”
“Please, please…” Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, Ye Ziyang, and Kang Jian looked at him with complex expressions.
Bai Jushen slowly finished his drink and asked, “Why me? You don’t even know me.”
Yan Ge replied, “That’s not important. What matters is that you need an opportunity, and I need manpower. Of course, this is an investment, and when I find that you are not worthy of my investment… heh. You can take your time to consider. The doors of the First Company are always open to you.”
He filled the glasses of everyone at the table and stood up with his wine glass. “It has been a pleasure to meet all of you. I offer a final toast to each of you.”
After finishing his drink in one go, he said, “Please enjoy your meal. I have settled the bill. I have other matters to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first. We can gather again if the opportunity arises.”
The others were left stunned by his decisiveness as they stood up and watched him depart.
Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, Ye Ziyang, and Kang Jian all turned their gaze towards Bai Jushen, who remained seated without moving.
Ye Ziyang smiled playfully and said, “Young Master Bai, perhaps you can take this opportunity to infiltrate the First Company and collaborate with us, bringing it down from the inside.”
Kang Jian looked at him in surprise. “Are you serious or joking?”
Ye Ziyang grinned and popped a succulent piece of chicken into his mouth. “Mmm, delicious. The dishes at Liuxian Pavilion are truly exquisite. Are you hoping for my serious answer or my joking answer?”
Kang Jian remained silent.
Zhao Yun snorted lightly. “I believe it’s a splendid idea.”
Zhang Mo offered a reminder, “Let’s not forget about the unfathomable background of the First Company.”
Bai Jushen abruptly stood up,and without saying another word, swiftly opened the door, and exited.
Yan Ge’s carriage was soon halted by a group of individuals. He withdrew his thoughts from the Pharmacopoeia resting in his hands and lifted the curtain to observe Bai Jushen.
Bai Jushen stated, “Boss Qin, I need to inform my mother before proceeding.” His address of “Boss Qin” already revealed his decision.
Yan Ge nodded with a smile. “Of course. You can continue living at home, or if you prefer, staying at the company is also an option.”
“I won’t disappoint you.” Bai Jushen concluded with his final words and swiftly departed.
Yan Ge instructed Xiao Shuanzi, “Let’s return home.”
Yan Su had taken the day off, and was in the courtyard, meticulously arranging flower branches for Madam Yan.
“Second Brother, you’re back.” Yan Su looked at him with confusion as he hurriedly walked in. “Is something urgent?”
“Not really,” Yan Ge whispered, “Something just occurred to me all of a sudden. Being the youngest in the family, I should be addressed as ‘Young Master,’ but everyone calls me “second young master” and you call me ‘Second Brother.’ Does that mean we have other siblings?” In reality, what he wanted to ask was whether Yan Xiaojing had a concubine.
Yan Su paused, gazing helplessly at him. “What are you thinking? After your birth, no one knew if Father and Mother will have more children so the servants all refer to you as ‘Second Young Master Second.’ Do you understand?”
“That’s good, then.” Yan Ge smiled in relief. He preferred keeping the family relationships simple. Otherwise, with palace intrigues within the palace and domestic disputes at home, wouldn’t it exhaust him?
As he turned around, he caught sight of Yan Xiaojing glaring at him with a stern expression.
Yan Ge froze. “Father…” Why was he so unlucky?
Getting A General
Two days later.
Yan Ge stepped down from the carriage, feeling the gaze upon him. He looked up and saw a young man standing by the window, looking down. With a faint smile, he entered Liuxian Pavilion.
Five people were already seated around the round table in Meixiang Hall, sipping tea. They were all handsome and elegant young men, around the age of twenty.
Yan Ge pushed the door open and entered, “I apologize for being late.”
The five stood up to greet him.
“Young Master Qin, it’s not your fault. We arrived early,” one of them said.
Yan Ge nodded and said, “Call me Brother Qin. May I know who each of you are?”
They introduced themselves one by one.
“I am Zhang Mo from ‘Pianran Tailoring Shop.’”
“I am Bai Jushen from ‘Xiangman Pavilion.’”
“I am Zhao Yun from ‘Zhao Family Brush Shop.’”
“I am Ye Ziyang from ‘Capital Clothings Shop.’”
“I am Kang Jian from ‘Kang’s Writing House.’”
Yan Ge matched each person’s name with the information he had gathered. “Nice to meet you all. Please have a seat. Let’s order our dishes and chat while we eat, shall we?”
They took their seats. Yan Ge handed the exquisite menu to Zhang Mo, who was seated on his right.
Having dined at Liuxian Pavilion frequently, they noticed that the food today was served faster than usual. But they didn’t think much of it and started discussing business after a few rounds of drinking.
Zhang Mo was the most talkative and spoke first, “I didn’t realize Young Master Qin was so young until I saw you today. I am a few years older than you, so if you don’t mind, may I call you Little Brother Qin?”
Yan Ge smiled and nodded, raising his cup. “Of course, I don’t mind, Brother Zhang. Let me toast to you first.”
Zhang Mo also raised his cup and smiled, “I should be the one toasting you. The name ‘Young Master Qin’ resounds throughout the capital, and you, Little Brother Qin, are truly remarkable. Please.”
Yan Ge chuckled, “I can’t compare to Bug Brother Zhang. Since you took charge of Pianran Tailoring Shop last year, the sales of ready-made garments have been soaring. When it comes to Pianran Tailoring Shop, everyone sings its praises.” He then took a sip of wine.
Upon hearing this, everyone realized that he had done his research on them. Despite his young age, he acted maturely, and they all put away any thoughts of underestimating him.
Zhao Yun said, “Young Master Qin, I am actually here on behalf of my father. My father, Zhao Dingshan, is the owner of the largest brush-making shop in the capital. He invited you a few days ago, but you were too busy to make time. Perhaps Young Master Qin doesn’t remember.”
The remark had a slightly sharp tone, implying some reproach. Yan Ge was a businessman and couldn’t possibly lack tolerance. He seemed oblivious to the sarcasm and said, “Since the establishment of the First Company, I have indeed been too occupied to spare time. I want to express my gratitude to Master Zhao for his understanding.”
Zhao Yun was left speechless, and he looked at the others.
Ye Ziyang laughed heartily with a hint of humor in his words, “I understand, I understand. Young Master Qin is busy with fountain pens one moment, snack shops the next, then toothpaste and toothbrushes, and now the tailoring shop. You’re truly bustling, but do take care of your health.”
Before Yan Ge could respond, Kang Jian chimed in, “I’ve just realized that the First Company is involved in food, clothing, and daily necessities. I’m curious, what are Young Master Qin’s plans for the next step?” It was obvious he was indirectly implying that Yan Ge wouldn’t leave any room for other businessmen.
Zhang Mo looked concerned, “It’s commendable that the First Company has grown and prospered, but with great success comes great attention. I’m afraid you’ve already gained some competitors. Young Master Qin, you should be cautious.”
Yan Ge’s sharp gaze swept across the faces of the others. It seemed they had conspired to confront him before his arrival. Zhang Mo played the emotional card, Zhao Yun was the main force, while Ye Ziyang and Kang Jian were in supporting roles. Only Bai Jushen from Xiangman Pavilion had not participated. Aside from the three toasts at the start of the banquet as a formality, he remained silent, his mood subdued, engrossed in pouring his own wine.
Yan Ge set down his chopsticks and toyed with his wine glass. “The reason I invited you all today is because I visited Pianran Tailor Shop yesterday, as well as Xiangman Pavilion, Zhao Family Brush Making Shop, Jingcheng Clothings Shop, and Kang Family Writing Shop.”
Zhang Mo and the others were not surprised. They knew that knowing oneself and one’s opponent was crucial, and they had also investigated Yan Ge.
Yan Ge changed the subject, “I once heard a story. Would any of you be interested in hearing it?”
Zhang Mo smiled, “Young Master Qin, please do share. I’m sure the story you’re about to tell us is extraordinary.”
Yan Ge took a sip of tea and slowly began his story, “Once upon a time, there was a man who owned a famous bun shop. He had a gentle wife and three sons, and their lives were very happy. However, everything changed when the three sons grew up. They all got married, and conflicts among the family members increased. They demanded to split the family and each open their own bun shop. The household became noisy with arguments every day.”
“In order to avoid further disputes among his sons and maintain family harmony, the old shop owner agreed to the division and copied the secret recipe for the bun filling into three identical portions. The original bun shop was given to the eldest son, and the other two sons opened their own bun shops with financial support. The second and third shops were exactly the same as the original one. As a result, there were three bun shops in the city selling the same buns.”
“Although the population in the city remained the same, the number of buns being sold increased, resulting in a decrease in sales for each shop. Therefore, all three businesses suffered. But the clever wife of the second son had a pair of skillful hands. She transformed the buns into cute animal shapes, and the sales of their bun shop started to increase again, becoming famous throughout the city. The eldest and the third sons were jealous and decided to follow their example. However, their wives didn’t have the same skillful hands. Before long, both of their bun shops closed down, while the second son’s shop stood strong and flourished.”
Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, and the others pondered the story, exchanging glances with different expressions.
Bai Jushen stared at Yan Ge without moving.
“Young Master Qin, what is the purpose of telling us this story?” Zhao Yun couldn’t hold back his impatience. “Are you implying that we can’t compete with you and will eventually be forced to close our businesses?”
Yan Ge didn’t explain, “Hehe, let’s eat. The dishes will get cold. Cold dishes are not tasty.”
Regardless of the four individuals’ reactions, he turned his gaze towards Bai Jushen. “Young Master Bai, as far as I am aware, you are an illegitimate son, and it seems life hasn’t been easy for you in the Bai family?”
Bai Jushen sneered and took a big gulp of wine. “I never expected Young Master Qin to take pleasure in poking at people’s scars.”
“Scars? Is that how Young Master Bai perceives it?” Yan Ge raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly. “I have never considered there to be any difference between a legitimate son and an illegitimate son. Even if one is to be blamed, it is not the fault of the illegitimate son himself. You see, one does not choose their own birth, but they do hold the power to shape their own future. If you want to go east, can anyone truly force you to go west? If that were the case, it would only be because you lack the courage.”
Bai Jushen set down his wine glass and stared at Yan Ge.
The wine in the glass splashed onto Yan Ge’s sleeve, leaving a conspicuous stain on his white attire. Yan Ge’s smile remained unchanged as he casually brushed his sleeve, causing the water stain to disappear without a trace. “Are you interested in working for me?”
Zhang Mo and the others looked surprised.
Yan Ge continued, “You didn’t have a chance to be involved in the Bai family’s business originally. The reason you sent me the invitation was because your elder brother believed that my background was profound and convincing me would be impossible. So he deliberately recommended you to your father. There’s no need to look at me with a guarded gaze, these things are easy to find out, aren’t they?”
The wariness In Bai Jushen’s eyes gradually faded, and he fell silent.
Yan Ge leisurely waved his folding fan. “The Bai family’s wealth is not insignificant, but has Young Master Bai ever considered creating your own wealth? Perhaps even more than what the Bai family possesses? Here, no one will suppress you, and no one will plot against you. You can fully unleash your business talents.”
Having said what needed to be said, Yan Ge refrained from further words. “Everyone, please. We are all young individuals, there is no need to be overly concerned with formalities. Let’s relax.”
“Please, please…” Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, Ye Ziyang, and Kang Jian looked at him with complex expressions.
Bai Jushen slowly finished his drink and asked, “Why me? You don’t even know me.”
Yan Ge replied, “That’s not important. What matters is that you need an opportunity, and I need manpower. Of course, this is an investment, and when I find that you are not worthy of my investment… heh. You can take your time to consider. The doors of the First Company are always open to you.”
He filled the glasses of everyone at the table and stood up with his wine glass. “It has been a pleasure to meet all of you. I offer a final toast to each of you.”
After finishing his drink in one go, he said, “Please enjoy your meal. I have settled the bill. I have other matters to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first. We can gather again if the opportunity arises.”
The others were left stunned by his decisiveness as they stood up and watched him depart.
Zhang Mo, Zhao Yun, Ye Ziyang, and Kang Jian all turned their gaze towards Bai Jushen, who remained seated without moving.
Ye Ziyang smiled playfully and said, “Young Master Bai, perhaps you can take this opportunity to infiltrate the First Company and collaborate with us, bringing it down from the inside.”
Kang Jian looked at him in surprise. “Are you serious or joking?”
Ye Ziyang grinned and popped a succulent piece of chicken into his mouth. “Mmm, delicious. The dishes at Liuxian Pavilion are truly exquisite. Are you hoping for my serious answer or my joking answer?”
Kang Jian remained silent.
Zhao Yun snorted lightly. “I believe it’s a splendid idea.”
Zhang Mo offered a reminder, “Let’s not forget about the unfathomable background of the First Company.”
Bai Jushen abruptly stood up,and without saying another word, swiftly opened the door, and exited.
Yan Ge’s carriage was soon halted by a group of individuals. He withdrew his thoughts from the Pharmacopoeia resting in his hands and lifted the curtain to observe Bai Jushen.
Bai Jushen stated, “Boss Qin, I need to inform my mother before proceeding.” His address of “Boss Qin” already revealed his decision.
Yan Ge nodded with a smile. “Of course. You can continue living at home, or if you prefer, staying at the company is also an option.”
“I won’t disappoint you.” Bai Jushen concluded with his final words and swiftly departed.
Yan Ge instructed Xiao Shuanzi, “Let’s return home.”
Yan Su had taken the day off, and was in the courtyard, meticulously arranging flower branches for Madam Yan.
“Second Brother, you’re back.” Yan Su looked at him with confusion as he hurriedly walked in. “Is something urgent?”
“Not really,” Yan Ge whispered, “Something just occurred to me all of a sudden. Being the youngest in the family, I should be addressed as ‘Young Master,’ but everyone calls me “second young master” and you call me ‘Second Brother.’ Does that mean we have other siblings?” In reality, what he wanted to ask was whether Yan Xiaojing had a concubine.
Yan Su paused, gazing helplessly at him. “What are you thinking? After your birth, no one knew if Father and Mother will have more children so the servants all refer to you as ‘Second Young Master Second.’ Do you understand?”
“That’s good, then.” Yan Ge smiled in relief. He preferred keeping the family relationships simple. Otherwise, with palace intrigues within the palace and domestic disputes at home, wouldn’t it exhaust him?
As he turned around, he caught sight of Yan Xiaojing glaring at him with a stern expression.
Yan Ge froze. “Father…” Why was he so unlucky?
