Chapter Seventy-Seven: The Gift

Amidst cries of astonishment, a sparkling jade sculpture slowly appeared before everyone’s eyes.

It was clearly carved in the likeness of a majestic eagle, wings spread in flight, vivid and lifelike, carrying the auspicious meaning of soaring ambitions and grand prospects.

In this world, there was no such thing as integrity or uprightness. To hold office was to seek fortune. Gift-giving was the norm; the more, the better. Whoever brought the most gifts, the most precious, the most weighty, would earn the favor of the Lord of Coastal City.

Jade was rare in the merchant lands, and such a sculpture was certainly of great value.

“Master Huang, you are most thoughtful!” exclaimed the Lord of Coastal City, visibly delighted. His residence had everything, except a piece of jade worthy of display. As the saying goes, a gentleman presents himself with jade. This sculpture, in both appearance and symbolism, captured his heart.

“May the Lord of Coastal City, like this eagle, soar to great heights and achieve boundless success!” Huang Dalang bowed in congratulations.

“Excellent!” declared the Lord, growing ever fonder of the jade sculpture as he admired it.

“I shall accept this treasure!”

Gifts could be refused, but the act of giving could not be neglected. Once a gift was accepted, it signified closeness, and the giver was branded as a favored associate of the city lord.

For prominent merchants like the Huang family, forging ties with the Lord of Coastal City would greatly benefit their future. As the jade sculpture was presented, literati, clan members, and guests all rushed to offer their carefully prepared gifts, each vying to impress.

Yet, after all was said and done, none matched the value and meaning of Huang Dalang’s jade eagle. He straightened his back with pride, basking in his triumph.

Chen Kuai, too, gritted his teeth and handed over a jade bracelet. His offerings were modest, and the bracelet cost him nearly all the savings he had accumulated over the years—an investment of his capital. But there was no avoiding it; social exchanges demanded reciprocity. If everyone else gave gifts, he could not abstain.

Moreover, as a city guard, the Lord of Coastal City was his superior. From any perspective, he had to show respect. Had he not invested in the fish business in Qin Town and amassed some funds, he would never have been able to afford the bracelet.

Watching Miss Ying’er carelessly toss aside the bracelet he had struggled to purchase, barely bothering to thank him, Chen Kuai’s heart bled with regret. If he had known this would happen, he would have chosen something cheaper, just enough to fulfill the duty.

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“I heard that Qin Town prepared a special, valuable gift for Miss Ying’er,” Huang Dalang suddenly interjected, his words aimed directly at Qin Zhen. His signature gentle smile concealed a hint of malice.

“Little brother Qin, could you show us your present so we can all appreciate it?” he pressed.

At this, the lively banquet fell silent. Everyone was eager to see what kind of gift this rustic youth from the countryside could possibly produce.

At the table, Li Han muttered quietly, “Just as Zhen’er predicted, this fat fool has sinister intentions.”

Chen Shu’s face showed worry. If Qin Zhen hadn’t come prepared, the consequences would be dire. Everyone else had brought gifts—only Qin Zhen stood empty-handed. No matter the excuse, this would surely earn the displeasure of the city lord and provide fodder for gossip.

If Huang Dalang fanned the flames and smeared his reputation, Qin Zhen would have no hope of establishing himself in Coastal City, let alone pursuing any cloth business.

“Oh? Is that so?” The Lord of Coastal City’s interest was piqued. “Bring it forward and let us see.”

Miss Ying’er was openly disdainful. Seeing Qin Zhen’s plain attire and recalling his eagerness when eating earlier, she had already decided that he could not possibly present anything impressive.

Huang Dalang continued to provoke, “Little brother Qin, don’t hide it at a time like this. Bring it out! We’re all waiting.”

He was certain Qin Zhen hadn’t known about the city lord’s daughter’s birthday and thus had no gift. If Qin Zhen had been willing to serve him, perhaps he would have shown mercy; but since Qin Zhen insisted on opposing the Huang family, there was no room for leniency.

Chen Kuai, sensing Qin Zhen’s predicament, tried to help: “Perhaps the gift was left at the inn? Go fetch it quickly.”

That would buy some time—enough to purchase something in haste.

But Huang Dalang pressed on relentlessly: “I saw him carrying a gift when he arrived. What’s going on, Qin Zhen? Do you think Miss Ying’er isn’t worthy of your present?”

Such inflammatory words caused many at the gathering to change expressions.

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Miss Ying’er slammed the table, her tone tinged with anger. “Qin Zhen, what do you mean by this?”

The city lord’s face darkened with displeasure.

“Why won’t Qin Zhen show his gift?”

“He must be embarrassed—nothing worth presenting! What could a country bumpkin bring? Maybe a basket of rotten eggs!”

“Qin Zhen, if you really have nothing to offer, just admit it. Don’t delay the auspicious hour; that would be a grave offense!”

Amid the mocking voices surrounding him, Qin Zhen remained calm as an old dog. Sensing the moment was ripe, he finally spoke.

“This humble one does indeed have a gift for Miss Ying’er. However, it is rather special, and I must ask Miss Ying’er to step aside.”

“How dare you! What sort of gift requires Miss Ying’er to leave her seat?” Huang Dalang sneered.

Even the jade sculpture he had painstakingly acquired was handed over directly. Who did Qin Zhen think he was? Miss Ying’er, daughter of the city lord, should not be expected to move for a mere trinket.

Qin Zhen raised his voice. “Because with this gift, once Miss Ying’er wears it, she will shine like the stars, unique and incomparable!”

Such bold words startled everyone.

Miss Ying’er, previously contemptuous, now showed interest and asked tentatively, “Are you saying your gift is a garment?”

“Miss Ying’er’s wisdom is as radiant as ice and snow! Truly worthy of the city lord’s lineage!” Qin Zhen offered a subtle flattery.

The city lord and Miss Ying’er relaxed. To change clothes without moving would be improper before commoners.

“What could be so remarkable about a garment?” Huang Dalang scoffed.

Qin Zhen pressed on, “I swear, once she dons this attire, Miss Ying’er will be the most beautiful star in the world. If not, she may take my head as forfeit!”

With these words, even the scholars who had dismissed Qin Zhen found themselves curious about the mysterious garment.

Miss Ying’er, clearly intrigued, responded with a smile, “Very well! I’ll go with you. If your gift does not please me, beware for your head!”