Qingbaozhai's attitude

Zhao Muzhi temporarily followed Old He, and it's evident that Old He holds this individual in high regard. He also seems pleased with my recent actions. In the evening, he hummed a rare tune while drinking several cups in the backyard.

For the time being, life has settled down, and I have invested almost all of my limited time in studying Second Master's notes. In addition to insights into tomb exploration, I delved into his various materials. Previously, I had only hurriedly skimmed through them, but now, with the luxury of time, I meticulously researched every detail.

The only somewhat disheartening aspect is that the information obtained through inquiries has yet to yield any responses. It seems that the details of those buried pieces of information were concealed very deeply.

Not long after dinner on a particular day, Xue Dongqing came to the backyard looking for me. He mentioned that visitors had arrived in the front hall from Qingbao Zhai, delivering a batch of "local products." They hoped that I could come and receive them. I found it strange because in the past, Old He has always overseen the activities of these shops. Why would they suddenly approach me?

Following Xue Dongqing, I went there, and besides Old He, there was another associate, including Zhao Muzhi. On the opposite side sat an elderly man wearing a satin Tang suit with a goatee. Upon my entrance, he greeted me with a nod.

Perplexed, I took a seat beside Old He and noticed that his complexion wasn't quite right. I asked the old man, "Are you looking for me?"

He smiled and said, "Second Master may not recognize me. I am the accountant of Qingbao Zhai. You may call me Liu Bao. Our shop has received a batch of ingots, and the shopkeeper, fearing the merchandise won't sell, specially sent me to ask Second Master's opinion."

I glanced at Old He, and he, surprisingly, remained silent. He signaled for me to take charge.

If Qingbao Zhai is truly facing difficulties, there's no need for Longshan Pavilion to insist on taking away the goods received at the beginning of the month. However, using the ingots to offset the debt is an unprecedented method. Even if the goods are not up to par, they should at least return the batch to Longshan Pavilion. I examined the box containing the ingots, furrowing my brows. Upon looking at Liu Bao, I understood his intention.

Old He had mentioned that the shops below were becoming unruly, but I hadn't expected them to be so audacious. I felt a concealed anger, but I managed to suppress it. I nodded and said, "Fine, Longshan Pavilion won't make it difficult for you."

Liu Bao smiled, standing up with an expression of assurance. He said, "Second Master, we won't disturb you any longer. We'll head back now. The shopkeeper in our store is still waiting."

"Hold on." I raised my hand to stop him, asking an assistant to bring over a table. I placed the ingots Liu mentioned on the table and said, "Don't rush to leave. Let's discuss these ingots. Longshan Pavilion won't take advantage of you. If the difference exceeds the goods received at the beginning of the month, I'll compensate you. After all, we all need to make a living. However, the shortage is 180,000, and not a single ingot less. If you feel Longshan Pavilion's goods are unsatisfactory, speak up. You can either return the goods or pay the difference. Everyone needs to put food on the table at home, so let's keep it straightforward."

Liu Bao adjusted his expression, showing no embarrassment at being exposed. As if prepared, he took a deep breath and calmly said, "Second Master, you are aware that business has been slow in the shop recently. With strict control from higher-ups and a decrease in supply, we are in a difficult situation. Moreover, there are rumors circulating outside. Boss Zhao, in collaboration with several major shopkeepers, deliberately suppresses the market, causing losses to many shops. While this might not affect Longshan Pavilion much, for us, it is a calamity."

"Furthermore, Longshan Pavilion doesn't deal in imitated goods, doesn't engage in overseas trade. Following these rules has constricted our financial path tightly. Everyone else is getting rich by adapting to the changing times. Zhao Boss aligning with the current situation is precisely why Longshan Pavilion is being pressed down. It's not just me; I believe all of us are waiting for Longshan Pavilion's stance, hoping you can understand." Liu Bao stared at me intensely, emphasizing the last two words.

Every word Liu Bao uttered was absorbed by me. His words made sense and weren't overly unreasonable. Old He had expressed similar concerns a few days ago. With Zhao Jindou expanding and gradually encroaching on Longshan Pavilion's territory, some people below want to leave. I realize that

 this is not excessive. The situation is changing, and if it weren't for Zhao Jindou today, there would be Liu Jindou and Zhang Jindou tomorrow. Blocking someone's financial path is like killing their parents; this has been a principle from ancient times to the present.

I glanced at Old He, who seemed determined to remain silent today, quietly sipping his tea.

I understood that since Zhao Jindou's commotion began, Longshan Pavilion's attitude has elevated to the point where even the outside world is paying attention. Those restless individuals aren't planning a rebellion. After all, with the grass-top emperor and Second Master holding the big banner, what they are doing now is forcing a response from Longshan Pavilion. Bringing the ingots today is a test, wanting to know if the rules can be broken.