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Section Reading 190
It is designated as a "National Youth Education Base" and a "National Patriotic Education Demonstration Base".
After visiting the photo station and film archives, the mother and most of the other women were unwilling to go to the mass grave. Daqi understood; they were afraid to see the remains of the victims. In the end, only Daqi, Qiwen, Qianru, Chunxiao, Yulou, and Ma'er visited the mass grave. After visiting the memorial, Daqi cursed, "You little Japanese devils, I curse your ancestors for eighteen generations!" His wives laughed. Qiwen said, "Honey, calm down, calm down! These Japanese are truly despicable!" Chunxiao said, "Their prime minister even visits the Yasukuni Shrine now; it's simply perverted!" Ma'er also said, "We must always be wary of Japan!"
The Presidential Palace in Nanjing has a history of over 600 years. In the early Ming Dynasty, it served as the residence of the Marquis of Guide and the Prince of Han. During the Qing Dynasty, it was the Jiangning Textile Bureau, the Governor-General's Office of Jiangnan, and the Governor-General's Office of Liangjiang. Both the Kangxi and Qianlong Emperors of the Qing Dynasty used it as a temporary palace during their southern tours. In March 1853, the Taiping Army occupied Nanjing and established its capital in Tianjing. Hong Xiuquan built the grand Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Palace (Heavenly King's Palace) here. After the Qing army captured Nanjing, they burned down the palace buildings and rebuilt the Governor-General's Office of Liangjiang in 1870. Lin Zexu, Zeng Guofan, Li Hongzhang, Liu Kunyi, Shen Baozhen, Zuo Zongtang, Zhang Zhidong, and Duanfang all served as Governor-General of Liangjiang. Following the outbreak of the Xinhai Revolution in October 1911, Sun Yat-sen was sworn in as the Provisional President of the Republic of China here on January 1, 1912, and established the first republican government in Chinese history—the Provisional Government of the Republic of China. In April 1912, the Provisional Government dissolved, and the Nanjing Garrison Office, with Huang Xing as its garrison commander, was established here. During the Second Revolution in 1913, it became the headquarters of the anti-Yuan Shikai army, with Huang Xing and He Haiming serving as commanders successively. From 1913 to 1927, this location successively served as the Jiangsu Governor's Office, the Jiangsu Military Governor's Office, the Jiangsu General's Office, the Jiangsu Governor's Office, the Vice Presidential Office, the Pacification Commissioner's Office, the Headquarters of the Five-Province Allied Army, and the Joint Office of the Zhili-Shandong Allied Army. Key military and political officials included Cheng Dequan, Zhang Xun, Li Chun, Qi Xieyuan, Lu Yongxiang, Feng Guozhang, Sun Chuanfang, Yang Yuting, and Zhang Zongchang. Shortly after the establishment of the Nanjing National Government in April 1927, it moved its offices here in September. In October 1928, the Nationalist Government implemented a five-branch system, designating the East Wing (East Garden) as the Executive Yuan and the West Wing (West Garden) as the General Staff Headquarters and the Accounting Department. By November 1937, Tan Yankai, Chiang Kai-shek, and Lin Sen had successively served as Chairman of the Nationalist Government; Tan Yankai, Song Ziwen, Chiang Kai-shek, Chen Mingshu (acting), Sun Ke, and Wang Jingwei had successively served as Premier; Li Jishen, He Yingqin, Zhu Peide, Chiang Kai-shek, and Cheng Qian had successively served as Chief of the General Staff; and Chen Qicai was the Accounting Director. After the fall of Nanjing in December 1937, the Nationalist Government successively became the headquarters of the Japanese 16th Division, the Executive Yuan of the puppet Reformed Government, and the Legislative Yuan, Control Yuan, and Examination Yuan of the Wang Jingwei regime; the East Wing became the puppet Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Railways; and the West Wing became the puppet Military Advisory Council. In May 1946, after the Nationalist Government returned to Nanjing, this location remained the seat of the Nationalist Government. The East Garden became the headquarters of the Nationalist Government's Ministry of Social Affairs, Ministry of Land Administration, Ministry of Water Resources, and Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission; the West Garden became the Nationalist Government's Accounting Office, Military Command, Presidential Military Affairs Bureau, and Capital Garrison Command. On May 20, 1948, after Chiang Kai-shek and Li Zongren were elected President and Vice President respectively at the "Constitutional National Assembly," the Nationalist Government was renamed the Presidential Palace. On April 23, 1949, Nanjing was liberated, and on April 24, the People's Liberation Army occupied the Presidential Palace. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in Chinese history. For nearly 50 years after the liberation of Nanjing, the Presidential Palace served as the office space for government agencies. Since the 1980s, these agencies gradually relocated, and in 1998, construction began on the site of the former Presidential Palace to build the Nanjing Museum of Modern Chinese History. After careful planning and five years of construction, it was largely completed by 2003. Currently, the museum covers a total area of 90,000 square meters and is divided into three visitor areas. The central area (central axis) mainly houses the Nationalist Government, the Presidential Palace, and its affiliated institutions; the western area contains Sun Yat-sen's provisional presidential office, secretariat, and western garden, as well as the General Staff Headquarters; the eastern area primarily consists of the former Executive Yuan, stables, and eastern garden. A series of exhibition halls and historical displays are distributed across these three areas. The Presidential Palace boasts numerous well-preserved modern Chinese and Western architectural relics, a unique and profound historical and cultural atmosphere, precious cultural relics and historical materials, a beautiful natural environment, and nearly 30,000 square meters of leisure and service areas.
After visiting the Presidential Palace, Daqi remarked with a sigh, "Life is full of triumphs, but all is vanity upon waking." Seeing this Presidential Palace makes one feel that Chiang Kai-shek's life was truly a fleeting dream! Qiwen said, "In politics, military affairs, philosophy, literature, poetry, and especially in his understanding of traditional Chinese culture, how could Chiang Kai-shek possibly rival the great leader Chairman Mao? He was bound to lose to Chairman Mao, so his retreat to Taiwan was inevitable." Daqi nodded, saying, "'Those who act justly gain much support, while those who act unjustly find little.' Chiang Kai-shek's policies during the War of Resistance against Japan were failures, and he was abandoned by the people. This is the fundamental reason for his failure! Of course, he was no match for Chairman Mao at all, purely in terms of personal qualities!"
The Qinhuai River originates from Donglu Mountain and Huashan Mountain in Jurong, flowing gently from east to west through the southern part of Nanjing city, and then emptying into the Yangtze River along the northwest of Shicheng. A tributary of the Yangtze, the Qinhuai River was formerly known as "Huai River" and originally called "Longzangpu." "A beautiful land south of the Yangtze, the imperial capital of Jinling," the section of the Qinhuai River within Nanjing city is famously known as the "Ten-Mile Qinhuai" and the "Golden Powder of the Six Dynasties." Its beautiful and ancient scenery along the banks, along with numerous historical sites, embodies the ancient charm of Jinling. The Qinhuai Scenic Belt is located in the south of Nanjing, stretching from the Qinhuai Water Pavilion at Dongshuiguan Huaiqing Bridge in the east, across Wende Bridge, to the inner Qinhuai River area extending from Zhonghua Gate Castle to Xishuiguan. It includes the streets and alleys along the Qinhuai River, the residences, nearby historical sites, and scenic spots. For 1800 years, this area has consistently been one of the most prosperous places in Nanjing, beautifully known as the "Ten-Mile Pearl Curtain." The Qinhuai Scenic Belt, centered on the Inner Qinhuai River and the Confucius Temple, is a multi-functional area integrating culture, tourism, commerce, and services, combining Ming and Qing dynasty styles with temple and market streetscapes. In 1990, it was selected as one of China's top 40 tourist destinations. The Qinhuai River, a tributary of the Yangtze River, is approximately 110 kilometers long and is the main waterway in Nanjing. Its ancient name was Huai River, originally "Longzangpu". Legend has it that when Qin Shi Huang toured the east, he saw purple clouds rising above Jinling (Nanjing), which he interpreted as an aura of imperial power. He then ordered the excavation of Fangshan Mountain and the cutting of the long embankment to create a canal that flowed into the Yangtze River. Later generations mistakenly believed this waterway was opened during the Qin dynasty, hence the name "Qinhuai". The Qinhuai River is the cradle of Nanjing's ancient civilization. Human activity existed in its basin as early as the Stone Age. From the East Water Gate to the West Water Gate, the riverbanks have been a bustling commercial and residential area since the Eastern Wu dynasty. During the Six Dynasties period, it became a gathering place for prominent families, merchants, scholars, and a center of Confucianism. After the Sui and Tang dynasties, it gradually declined, yet it attracted countless literati and poets to mourn its passing, lamenting, "The swallows that once graced the halls of the Wang and Xie families now fly into the homes of ordinary people." During the Song dynasty, it gradually revived as a center of culture and education in Jiangnan. The Ming and Qing dynasties marked the golden age of the Qinhuai River. Golden pavilions and terraces stood side by side; painted boats glided on the water, the sounds of oars and the flickering lights creating a dreamlike and enchanting scene. However, in modern times, due to war and other reasons, the river became increasingly polluted, and many buildings on both banks were destroyed, the former prosperity vanishing. After 1985, Jiangsu Province and Nanjing City allocated substantial funds to restore this scenic area, and the Qinhuai River once again became a famous tourist destination in my country, integrating historical sites, gardens, painted boats, streets, and folk customs. As early as the Six Dynasties period, the Qinhuai River and the Confucius Temple area were already prosperous regions, the banks of the Qinhuai River being the residence of aristocratic families and a gathering place for literati. After the Sui and Tang dynasties, it experienced a period of decline. It flourished again during the Ming and Qing dynasties, attracting wealthy merchants, brothels, and pleasure boats, becoming a beautiful place in Jiangnan. The most famous feature of the Qinhuai River is the lantern boats, which were popular during the Ming dynasty. All boats on the river, regardless of size, were adorned with colorful lanterns, and anyone traveling the Qinhuai River invariably took a ride on one of these lantern boats. Zhu Ziqing vividly described this in his famous essay, "The Qinhuai River in the Sound of Oars and Lanterns." The restored Qinhuai River scenic area, centered on the Confucius Temple and linked by the Qinhuai River, includes Zhan Garden, the Confucius Temple ancient architectural complex, Bailuzhou, Zhonghua Gate Castle, and the Qinhuai River cruise and riverside scenery from Taoye Ferry to Zhenhuai Bridge. It is a tourist route that integrates historical sites, gardens, pleasure boats, streets, riverside houses and halls, and folk customs, making it extremely interesting and charming. For thousands of years, the Qinhuai River has nurtured the ancient city of Nanjing. "Ten miles of brocade-like scenery in the spring breeze, thousands of doors and windows open along the river," the riverside houses near the Confucius Temple were renowned for their ornate windows and flowing waterways, a sight unparalleled in the world. The Qinhuai-style snacks of the Confucius Temple area are one of the four major snack clusters in my country. Teahouses, restaurants, and street food abound in the Confucius Temple area, forming a unique culinary hub with distinctive Qinhuai traditions. After years of effort, seven pastry shops in the Confucius Temple area have become famous for their exquisite craftsmanship, beautiful shapes, carefully selected ingredients, and unique flavors. In September 1987, the Nanjing Qinhuai District Flavor Snack Research Association officially named these eight sets of Qinhuai-style snacks the "Eight Delicacies of Qinhuai." The first specialty is Kuiguang Pavilion's spiced tea eggs, spiced beans, and Yuhua tea; the second specialty is Yonghe Garden's dried shrimp and crab shell sesame cakes; the third specialty is Qifang Pavilion's sesame oil dried shrimp and duck oil sesame cakes; the fourth specialty is Liufengju's tofu pudding and scallion pancakes; the fifth specialty is Qifang Pavilion's assorted vegetable buns and shredded chicken noodles; the sixth specialty is Jiang Youji's beef soup and beef hot pot; the seventh specialty is Zhanyuan Noodle Shop's thin-skinned dumplings and red soup braised fish noodles; and the eighth specialty is Lianhu Dessert Shop's osmanthus-filled glutinous rice balls and five-colored cakes.
Daqi and his family were having a wonderful time sightseeing on the Qinhuai River; they had chartered an entire boat. His mother and seventeen beautiful wives were especially delighted, as the scenery of the Qinhuai River was truly breathtaking! Suddenly, Muping asked Daqi, "Husband, Master, you know a bit about history, tell us about the 'Eight Beauties of Qinhuai'!" Daqi chuckled and began to give his beautiful wives a rough account of the "Eight Beauties of Qinhuai," which is summarized below.
The "Eight Beauties of Qinhuai," also known as the "Eight Beauties of Jinling," are first mentioned in Yu Huai's *Banqiao Zaji*, which describes six women: Gu Hengbo, Dong Xiaowan, Bian Yujing, Li Xiangjun, Kou Baimen, and Ma Xianglan. Later, Liu Rushi and Chen Yuanyuan were added, making it the Eight Beauties. These eight women shared several common traits. First, they all possessed patriotic integrity. Except for Ma Xianglan, the other eight women lived through the turbulent transition from the Ming to the Qing dynasty. At that time, many corrupt Ming officials were cowardly and traitorous, while the Eight Beauties, despite being women oppressed at the bottom of society, displayed noble national integrity during a time of national crisis. Secondly, they were highly accomplished in poetry and painting. All eight were skilled in poetry and painting, although most of their works have been lost, with only Liu Rushi's works surviving in greater numbers. They were diligent in their creative work, striving to express their life experiences. Finally, they were extremely loyal in love and friendship. The Eight Beauties of Qinhuai were all forced into prostitution. Who would have imagined such a life of selling smiles? They all longed to find a kindred spirit and spend their lives together, but their path to virtue was always guided by love and friendship, yet fraught with hardship. This was undoubtedly a tragedy for women in that society, but it also reflected their own noble qualities. At the end of the Ming Dynasty, the Eight Beauties of Jinling, renowned for their beauty and talent along the Qinhuai River, were known to almost everyone. Hundreds upon hundreds of scholars and poets flocked to them. The fates of many influential historical figures were significantly intertwined with their stories. Beautiful women love heroes, and courtesans love talented men. Their allure not only captivated ordinary people but also bewitched many heroes and scholars, even altering the course of history. At the end of the Ming Dynasty, the Qinhuai River was a scene of bustling entertainment districts, filled with singing and dancing, with music playing all night long. Brothels lined the area, a world of courtesans, becoming the most prosperous entertainment district of the Ming Dynasty. Many brothels took in orphaned, destitute young girls. They taught them music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, and dance. Once they grew up, they became the brothel's most sought-after courtesans. The Eight Beauties of Jinling—Liu Rushi, Li Xiangjun, Bian Yujing, Zheng Tuoniang, Gu Meisheng, Kou Baimen, Chen Yuanyuan, and Dong Xiaowan—were all raised from child prostitutes to become the most beautiful women on the Qinhuai River. Not only were they all exceptionally beautiful and well-proportioned, but they were also skilled in poetry, song, and dance. Even more commendable was their concern for national affairs; they maintained close relationships with the literati of the Fushe Society, which followed the Donglin Party, discussing current events and writing passionately—truly women who were no less capable than men. The romantic escapades of Li Xiangjun, Bian Yujing, and Dong Xiaowan with Hou Fangyu, Fang Yizhi, and Mao Xiang, three of the Four Gentlemen of Jinling, were widely celebrated. Little did they know that the Four Gentlemen of Jinling played a pivotal role in the literary world at the time. The Fushe Society, which they founded, was another important literary society with political overtones after the Donglin Party. The Four Gentlemen of Jinling were all from prominent scholarly families, excelling in poetry and prose. Fang Yizhi, in particular, was both a scholar and a warrior, making numerous contributions to the Ming Dynasty. He served as a compiler in the Hanlin Academy under Emperor Chongzhen. After the fall of the Ming Dynasty, he dedicated himself to restoring it, serving as a lecturer to the Yong and Ding Princes of the Southern Ming and later as prime minister under Emperor Yongli. After the Qing Dynasty unified the country, he actively prepared for anti-Qing and restoration activities. Thousands flocked to him, drawn by his reputation; his grandson, Fang Bao, was the founder of the Tongcheng School. Among the Eight Beauties, Liu Rushi, Gu Meisheng, and Kou Baimen later reformed and followed prominent officials of the late Ming Dynasty. After the fall of the Ming, many of the Eight Beauties were persecuted for political reasons. Chen Yuanyuan and Dong Xiaowan thus entered the lives of influential historical figures of the time. Meanwhile, Wu Sangui, a general of the late Ming Dynasty, joined the forces of Li Zicheng, the rebel leader. He controlled the Great Wall fortresses, playing a crucial role in resisting the Qing army. Chen Yuanyuan was presented to Wu Sangui and received his utmost favor. The two had a deep and abiding love. Later, a general under Li Zicheng seized Chen Yuanyuan. Wu Sangui, infatuated with her, was enraged, saying, "I hold great power, yet I cannot even protect a woman!" The general, angered by his love for Chen Yuanyuan, rebelled and surrendered to the Qing. The peasant army was no match for the well-trained regular army, and the Qing army swept through the country, annihilating them like a whirlwind. Li Zicheng's success was short-lived, and he became a tragic hero in history. After the Qing unified the country, Wu Sangui was enfeoffed as the Prince of Pan in the Southwest for his great contributions. If Chen Yuanyuan had not been seized, Wu Sangui might not have betrayed the Qing, and whether the Qing Dynasty would have truly existed remains unknown. The love story of Dong Xiaowan and the Shunzhi Emperor of the Qing Dynasty was even more earth-shattering. When the Qing army entered the country, Dong Xiaowan had already left her profession and married Mao Xiang. Mao Xiang was one of the Four Gentlemen of Jinling, immensely wealthy and possessing impeccable literary talent and handsome appearance. Dong Xiaowan could have lived a happy and peaceful life, but unexpectedly, Prince Yu, Dodo, led his army south of the Yangtze River. He had long heard of the Eight Beauties of Jinling. So he plotted to frame Mao Xiang and abduct Dong Xiaowan. Later, he presented Dong Xiaowan to Emperor Shunzhi. Shunzhi treated Dong Xiaowan like a rare treasure, showering her with favor. Within half a year, he even bestowed upon her the title of Consort Dong'e. Little did he know that at that time, it usually took at least three years for someone to be made a consort after entering the palace. Dong Xiaowan's promotion to consort in half a year was probably unprecedented in Qing history. She didn't care much about all this, only thinking about Mao Xiang. This only made Shunzhi more infatuated with her, neglecting state affairs. Prince Yu, Dodo, fearing that Dong Xiaowan would seek revenge after gaining favor, preemptively impeached her to Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang, attacking and framing her. Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang was eventually moved and issued an edict ordering Dong Xiaowan to become a nun. After becoming a nun, Dong Xiaowan showed little grief, instead finding peace and contentment. However, Emperor Shunzhi found it difficult to let go, and his longing for her deepened each day. After her death, Shunzhi renounced worldly life and shaved his head.
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Section Reading 191
He became a monk. Thus, a monarch became a monk. If Dong Xiaowan hadn't been banished, how would the history of the Qing Dynasty have unfolded? Emperor Shunzhi certainly wouldn't have become a monk.
After briefly recounting the "Eight Beauties of Qinhuai," Daqi stood at the bow of the boat and couldn't help but exclaim to himself, "I, Tong Daqi, possess seventeen beauties, far exceeding eight!" Hahaha, what a triumphant life! How delightful!
Chapter 225 Leaving the Business World
After visiting Nanjing, Daqi took his mother and seventeen beautiful women back to Rongzhou, flying directly from Nanjing to Rongzhou. Upon arriving in Rongzhou, he immediately called Cheng Renji to confirm the renovation project for 150 villas. Cheng Renji assured him that everything was proceeding normally.
For almost the entire next year, Daqi was busy renovating these 150 villas. The project progressed very smoothly, and Daqi earned tens of millions of RMB by the time it was all completed.
He had become a veritable little millionaire. Over the course of the year, Daqi, Qiwen, and the other beautiful women decided to rent several connected apartment buildings. He concentrated his women living together, except for his mother-in-law, who couldn't be with him often because she had to care for his father. However, she frequently traveled between her hometown of Ping'an County and Rongzhou, partly to visit her...
The daughter, Qiwen, wanted to be with Daqi. Gradually, the other women also learned about Daqi's relationship with his mother-in-law, but they didn't say anything. Although his mother-in-law was in her early forties, she was still sexy, beautiful, and mature, arousing desire at first glance. In Xiaoli's words, "Husband, you should have taken your mother-in-law long ago. That way, your relationship with Qiwen's family would be tightly bound together."
Daqi was very discreet. When he wasn't having sex with his mother-in-law, he treated her as his mother-in-law—an elder; but when they were, he treated her simply as a woman—a seductive, beautiful, and extremely obedient young woman who belonged only to him. Once, Daqi and seventeen beautiful women got drunk together. On a whim, he ordered all the women, including his mother-in-law, to kneel before him one by one and please him with their lips and tongues. When it was his mother-in-law's turn, no one was surprised. Even Xianzi Wen smiled as her mother knelt before Daqi, her face full of adoration and allure, gracefully swaying her head…
Besides frequently serving Daqi together, Jia Ran and her daughter Xiao Man also often served him alongside other beautiful women. In addition to his seventeen wives at home, Daqi could choose any of the women at Jia Ran's hotel. Without exception, any woman Da Qi fancied had to kneel respectfully before him, naked. Jia Ran offered high bonuses to the women at the hotel who served Daqi, and each woman desperately wanted to be chosen by him, using all her skills to comply with his commands or demands. Furthermore, high-class prostitutes connected to the hotel, as well as women from all over the world willing to sell themselves, had all served Daqi through Jia Ran's connections.
Daqi was incredibly lucky with women, practically living among them every day. He was ecstatic, feeling like an emperor in terms of sheer good fortune. However, he knew that only Qiwen and the other seventeen beauties were his true "empresses" and "concubines"—his wives. The other women were just for "one-night stands"—merely for novelty. Daqi had originally planned to buy two Japanese female slaves to serve him. Later, Qiwen suggested, "Master, Huan'er and Jie'er are trained in the ways of Japanese female slaves. I think you should forget it. It's unpleasant for Japanese women to come to our house. We are all Chinese; suddenly having two Japanese women here wouldn't be comfortable for me." Later, Qianru and Chunxiao also advised Daqi to abandon his plan to buy Japanese female slaves. Ma'er, Yulou, and other young women also disagreed with Daqi buying Japanese female slaves from Japan. Under everyone's persuasion, Daqi agreed not to buy any more Japanese female slaves. From then on, Qiwen, the "Empress," was completely obedient to Daqi. She paid close attention to uniting Daqi's other sixteen women, ensuring they were all closely united around Daqi as the "center." In reality, Daqi was their "center," their "emperor," and their supreme "ruler." All seventeen beauties wholeheartedly accepted Daqi's sole and absolute rule; in their hearts, there was only one man: Tong Daxuan! After a year of hard work, Xiaoman was admitted to the History Department of Binhai Normal University. She was Ye Huan and Zheng Jie's junior, as they were students at the university's Music Academy. Although Xiaoman was going to university, she often stayed by Daqi's side. Daqi was too lazy to care about her; she was already a university student, why should he bother with her!
Qianru and Chunxiao, after consulting with Daqi, decided not to resign from their civil service jobs, saying they would be depressed if they quit and had nothing to do. Daqi agreed, but on the condition that they live with everyone else. They agreed and moved in with Daqi.
Ma'er quit her job, saying she was too lazy to manage someone else's company. She and Daqi's four beautiful secretaries from the company—Lijie, Yulou, Suqin, and Pingjia—opened a coffee shop. They also said they had nothing else to do, and as long as they didn't lose money, that was fine. Daqi agreed.
Here, it's necessary to briefly summarize the situation of Daqi and his family after they became small millionaires. After earning tens of millions, Daqi dissolved his company, or more accurately, transferred it to Liu Donghua. He hosted a banquet for his business friends, announcing his retirement from business and design, stating he would never again engage in business or work as a designer. He directly told everyone, "I can't bear to part with my dozen or so wives, so I'm retiring from business and design." His business friends, especially Cheng Renji and Liu Donghua, lamented, "Daqi's retirement from business, and especially from design, is a huge loss to our entire Binhai, and even the entire Chinese interior design industry." Upon hearing the news of Tong Daqi's retirement, the renowned interior design master Richard, residing in Australia, immediately called Cheng Renji to inquire whether the news was true. Cheng Renji said on the phone, "It's true, he really has retired." Richard sighed and said in English, "Mr. Cheng, your hundred villas by the Rongjiang River will be Mr. Tong Daqi's 'swan song' in this life. I originally wanted to discuss some cutting-edge theories about interior design with him, but now it seems that I can only continue to fight my career alone! Please convey my greetings to Mr. Tong Daqi, and tell him that he is the only interior design master in my mind who can rival me!"
Daqi lived with his seventeen beautiful women. He bought a villa in Rongzhou, built by Cheng Renji, by the Rongjiang River, enough for him, his mother, and his wives. He also bought a sea-view villa in Longhai, a special economic zone—a city that won the "UN Habitat Award"—facing the boundless sea. Because Xiao Li loved Longhai, and he loved it too, he bought a large villa there, also enough for him, his mother, and the seventeen beautiful women. Daqi considered that two places to live were enough for the whole family. Actually, there were three places; the other was the Tong family mansion in Changqing. When he led the women to Longhai to buy the villa, he and his mother specifically went to see Wan'er's grandmother, but the abbot of the temple said, "Master Miaoqing has gone on a pilgrimage and no longer resides here." Daqi and his mother asked, "Master, do you know where Master Miaoqing went?" The abbot shook his head and said, "I really don't know. I only know that Master Miaoqing doesn't have the habit of staying in one temple permanently." Daqi and his mother had no choice but to give up the search, because there was simply no way to find her.
Daqi sent all his wives to driving lessons and bought four cars: a stretched Lincoln, a Mercedes, a Cadillac, and an off-road vehicle of unknown brand. Qiwen and Xiaoli bought the off-road vehicle without Daqi's involvement. In short, their fleet of cars was sufficient for any family gatherings or trips. And everyone except his mother could drive.
Qiwen, Xiaoli, and Muping continued to run their clothing store, earning no less than 300,000 yuan a year; Meiting and Yijing ran a grocery store near the Rongjiang Villa where their family lived; Li Lanyun and Daqi's four beautiful secretaries from their business days—Lijie, Yulou, Suqin, and Pingjia—run a high-end coffee shop; Qianru and Chunxiao continued to work as government officials; Ye Huan, Zheng Jie, and Xiaoman went to university; and Jiaran transferred her hotel to her younger brother at a low price, retaining only a certain percentage of shares and no longer interfering in the hotel's success or failure.
Jia Ran naturally divorced her husband, who unconditionally agreed. She said she was willing to be Da Qi's housewife. Da Qi said, "Sister, you've run the hotel for so many years, it's time for you to rest." Jia Ran stayed home to help Yi Jing and Mei Ting with housework. Her mother-in-law stayed with Da Qi's father-in-law, but often came over to be "intimate" with Da Qi.
It should be said that Tong Daqi lived a life of unimaginable luxury for most city dwellers. He had a house, a car, money, a mother to care for, and seventeen stunningly beautiful women as his wives. Since Jia Ran withdrew from the hotel business, he stopped seeking out other women, because he had already been with far too many. He still felt that his seventeen wives were the ones he needed to cherish and hold onto the most.
He lived with his seventeen beautiful wives in rotation each day. Each wife served him with extreme gentleness and affection and was very obedient to him. His wives only regarded doing business, working, or studying as a form of leisure, because their family's wealth was enough for them to live comfortably for more than fifty years.
After retiring from the business world, Daqi recuperated in his villa for several months. He often visited his wives' businesses and spent time with them. Occasionally, he would also attend lectures at Binhai Normal University with Xiaoman. This was because Daqi loved history, and Xiaoman's major was history. Xiaoman said, "Master, I'm so happy that you often come to class with me." Daqi smiled and said, "Xiaoman, this history class is very interesting. I'm just listening out of interest. I really envy you; you actually got into university and didn't disappoint your mother's expectations!" Xiaoman smiled and said, "Master, without you, I wouldn't have been able to get into any university. Thank you so much, but I don't know what to do after I graduate." Daqi laughed heartily and said, "Xiaoman, you're only a freshman. We'll talk about it after you graduate. In short, we have plenty of food, drink, and clothing at home, but I hope you can listen attentively in class, just as a form of relaxation." "I think going to university is quite meaningful. People always need to find something to do," Xiaoman said. "Brother Qi, I know what you mean. Don't worry, I'll take my classes seriously. Like you said, I'm just treating classes as a pastime." Daqi sighed and said, "Back then, my family was poor, and my mother didn't let me go to university. I'm actually a little envious of you; you're a proper university student." Xiaoman smiled and said, "Master, you've earned more money in your first twenty-odd years than most people earn in a lifetime. Since you have nothing else to do anyway, why don't you go to university too? Just like you said, it's just for fun."
Perhaps it was fate, but Xiaoman's simple words really made Daqi think about it. After all, he had never actually attended university, only a few years of vocational school.
Daqi thought to himself: Not going to university is a lifelong regret... I didn't go to school before because of poverty, but now that I'm rich, or at least not poor anymore, I really want to experience university life. But, I didn't even finish high school, can I even get into a regular university? Impossible, impossible... Besides, what's the point of going to university? Sigh, forget it, I'll just have fun for a few years first. I could even have fun for a lifetime! I have the means to do so now! So I'll have fun for a lifetime, take good care of my mother, and have seventeen beautiful women accompany me for the rest of my life!
Part Two
First time visiting my hometown for Chinese New Year
After achieving great success and then gracefully retiring from the business and design worlds, Tong Daqi led his entire family back to his hometown for the Spring Festival. This year, Daqi had a very happy Spring Festival. His mother was beaming with joy. Three months before the festival, Daqi spent nearly 800,000 RMB to completely renovate his ancestral home—the Tong Family Mansion. He repaired what needed repairing, patched what needed patching, and added design elements where appropriate. The entire house was transformed, and each room was equipped with modern toilets, bathrooms, and other amenities. While it still looks like an old house from the outside, the individual bedrooms have all been replaced with modern ones. Daqi also significantly renovated the studies of his great-grandfather and grandfather. He arranged all the ancestral books on the shelves, numbering in the thousands. Many of these were thread-bound books from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China era. He also spent 500,000 RMB to repair the road in front of the Tong Family Mansion, turning it into a standard cement road. Neighbors came to the Tong family mansion to thank Daqi and his mother. Daqi also donated 300,000 RMB to his alma mater, Changqing No. 1 Middle School, to help poor students pay their tuition and fees. Throughout Changqing, Daqi truly became a celebrity. Neighbors, former classmates, and teachers were all talking about him.
At the large round table for the New Year's Eve dinner, Daqi's family sat down. His mother, holding a wine glass, addressed Daqi, his sixteen daughters-in-law, and his mother-in-law—Qiwen's mother, Daqi's mother-in-law—saying, "Today is a joyous occasion of the New Year. As your mother-in-law, I'd like to offer you a toast! Cheers! Mother-in-law, I'd also like to toast you!" His mother-in-law chuckled and said, "Daqi's mother, you're too kind!" Daqi's sixteen wives also chimed in, "Mom, we wish you good health and a prosperous new year!" Everyone drank a full glass of wine.
The mother said, "After decades, the Tong family mansion is finally bustling again. Daqi, my son, I'm so happy because our family is thriving once more!"
Qiwen said, "Mom, don't worry, I have good news for you. I'm pregnant, and I'll definitely give you a grandson this year!"
His mother must have been overjoyed, so he laughed loudly, "Wen'er, what wonderful news! What a happy occasion! When did you find out you were pregnant?"
Daqi said, "I accompanied Wen'er to Qingzhou Hospital the day before yesterday, and that's what the doctor said. Not only is Wen'er pregnant, but Muping and Suqin are also pregnant. Mom, our Tong family is definitely thriving!" Upon hearing this, the mother quickly said, "Wen'er, Ping'er, and Qin'er, you three must take good care of yourselves. Just tell me what you want to eat. You must ensure your pregnancies are healthy and give birth to healthy babies." The three girls all said, "Mom, don't worry, we will definitely not let you down." Xiaoli smiled and said, "In the future, we will each have one child. That way, our Tong family will have over thirty people, which is definitely a large family in China today." Yijing asked, "Mom, do you prefer a boy or a girl?" The mother said, "Boys and girls are the same. I love all my grandchildren! Don't worry, don't feel pressured, whether it's a boy or a girl..." "Mom, I love all my daughters the same!" Xiao Li said. "Mom, I don't want to have children." Her mother said, "If you don't want to have children, then don't. Why have so many? I think three grandchildren are enough. After all, this is a modern society. If you don't want to have children, then don't." Ma'er said, "Mom, we'll treat Wen, Ping, and Qin's children as our own, so we won't have any more. We're all mothers to them anyway!" Yu Lou smiled and said, "That's right. I have a question. How will our children address us?" Da Qi laughed and said, "I've already thought about that." The wives hurriedly asked Da Qi, "Master, tell us quickly!" Da Qi said, "Just like that, Wen Mama, Ping Mama, Li Mama... and so on." Everyone nodded and said in unison, "Okay."
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Qiwen asked Daqi with a happy expression, "Master, do you hope for a boy or a girl?" Daqi replied, "First of all, I'd prefer a girl. It doesn't matter if it's a boy or a girl, I like them both!" Qiwen said, "Then I hope God will let me have a daughter!" Pingjia raised her glass and said, "Let's all wish Sister Wen a daughter! Come on, everyone, let's toast Sister Wen!" So everyone toasted Qiwen, who said, "Sisters, I appreciate your kindness. I'm pregnant, so I'm just showing my appreciation. Please drink more. Ping'er, Qin'er, you should drink less too." Muping said, "Wen'er, I know my limits." Suqin also smiled and said, "Sister Wen, don't worry, I don't usually drink much." Then everyone toasted Muping and Suqin. Daqi was overjoyed; he truly felt a sense of pride and honor for his family.
First, he has earned so much money that he can not work for at least fifty years; second, he has so many wives, and each one is one in a hundred; third, some of his wives are pregnant, and he will soon be a father.
Throughout the Spring Festival, the Tong family mansion was bustling with people. Many relatives and friends from the past came to visit Daqi's mother and Daqi. The mother and son received them all. This included many relatives who had not previously had any contact with the Tong family.
The mother said to Daqi, "These relatives and friends have come to our house again. Son, they came because you have become successful."
Daqi: "Mom, just treat these relatives and friends casually. I'll give them some face. Don't dwell on past grudges. Don't worry, I'll always be wary of them. I'll just treat them like relatives and friends on the surface, but actually, my only friend is Dazhong."
Mother: "Is Da Zhong doing well at the National Defense University? He should be a junior by now!"
Daqi: "He's wholeheartedly serving the country, of course that's good. Unlike your son, who's a social idler. I'm no longer in business, so I've become a typical idler. But I'm happy! We're all on different paths." Then, the mother chatted with Daqi for a while longer.
On the third day of the Lunar New Year in 2001, Da Zhong arrived at the Tong family mansion. Da Qi was delighted to see his old friend. He immediately told him about his 16 wives. Da Zhong laughed, "You're not afraid the government will charge you with bigamy?" Da Qi laughed, "First, which of my wives would sue me? Second, even if someone did, neither my wives nor I would admit it. What can anyone do to me? Third, I'm not afraid of death. I'd be happy if someone invited me to jail; I could experience life." Da Zhong said, "You want to be a writer, to experience life?" Da Qi said, "No, just kidding." As they chatted, Da Qi's 16 wives gradually came out to greet Da Zhong. Da Zhong laughed, "You're really something, living like an emperor. So many beautiful women are your women. You're amazing!" This Mei Ting was someone Da Zhong knew; the three of them had been classmates. Daqi laughed, "Where's your girlfriend? I heard from an old classmate she's a beauty!" Dazhong said, "She's my college classmate, not bad looking. But we can only 'develop underground,' we can't be open about it." Daqi asked, "Why?" Dazhong said, "I'm in military academy, and the school rules forbid dating, otherwise they'll assign me to Xinjiang." Daqi said, "Xinjiang it is, the great Northwest of our motherland." Dazhong said, "Would my mom let me go to Xinjiang? She'd never agree. Besides, the 'East Turkistan' separatists have been causing trouble these past few years, it might not be safe there. It's not that I'm afraid of dying, it's just that I'm afraid of being assassinated by the 'East Turkistan' separatists." Daqi said, "I've heard about the 'East Turkistan' thing too. Those bastards who want independence are really annoying." Dazhong said, "More than annoying! If it were a real battle between two armies, who's afraid of them? They just love assassinations, they've already murdered quite a few people, many of them soldiers. Just kidding, if the country really sent me to Xinjiang, I wouldn't be afraid at all." "It's just that the school rules prohibit us from dating while on campus, so my girlfriend and I can only 'contact' each other secretly," Daqi said. "Military academies have these rules, so there's nothing we can do about it. With regular universities, we can do whatever we want." Dazhong smiled and nodded. He said, "You're already very successful now. I heard from your former homeroom teacher that you even donated money to your alma mater." Daqi said, "Not much, just 300,000 yuan. I myself graduated from Changqing No. 1 High School, and I have feelings for my alma mater. I don't feel much about my vocational school. If it weren't for my family's poverty back then, I would definitely be a standard college student like you. Hahaha!" Dazhong said, "Back then, at No. 1 High School, only you, Tong Daqi, could 'compete' with me. All the others, even those who got into Tsinghua, Peking University, or Fudan University, were no match for us. But now you've surpassed me; I'm just an ordinary soldier in the country. You're worth tens of millions. Why did you retire from the business world so early?"
Daqi said, “In China, it’s not uncommon for people to be worth tens of millions. I don’t like being a businessman. You know, I’ve always disliked businessmen since I was a child. I only ended up on this path because I had no other choice. Now that I can get out, of course I’m getting out.”
Da Zhong said, "Businessmen, or capitalists, are indeed disgusting and hateful. However, this society cannot do without them; without them, the country's economy cannot develop."
Daqi: "I know the country can't do without them, but if I could choose not to be a businessman, I would never consider it. As you know, I've been influenced by traditional Chinese culture since I was a child, so why would I continue to be a businessman?"
Da Zhong: "Don't I know you? I know your character, just like me. If I wanted to get into Fudan University or Peking University's economics program, it would be a piece of cake. I'd rather apply to the National Defense University. You, on the other hand, are a typical idler now, living off your savings. I ask you, what are your plans for the future? You won't stay this mediocre forever, will you? That's not like you. I know you. Deep down, you're like me, someone who wants to do something for society."
Daqi: "I have never said that I am unwilling to do things for society, nor have I ever said that I am unwilling to serve the country. But now, do I have the opportunity? It's difficult. My personality is such that I would rather 'bow and scrape before the powerful and wealthy, and not be happy.' I know that with my current wealth, I could get a minor official position by currying favor with certain people, but I have no need to lower myself to that level. Forget it, rather than being that kind of person, I'd rather be an idle person like myself. I get up before the sun is high in the sky every day, and I live a very carefree life."
Da Zhong: "Da Qi, I've recently heard some news that the country is going to reform the college entrance examination system. It's very likely that everyone will have the opportunity to go to university, as long as you can pass the exam. The country may abolish all restrictions, including age and marriage restrictions."
Daqi: "There's such a thing? No way, I haven't cared about national affairs for a long time, except for the time the Yugoslav embassy was bombed."
Big Bell: "Very likely. So, old friend, how about taking the college entrance exam again?"
Daqi: "Forget it, I'm not even going to take the college entrance exam now. I didn't even finish high school. Besides, the government hasn't decided whether or not to lift all the restrictions yet. I'm a married man, and Qiwen and I got our marriage certificate a while ago."
Da Zhong: "Judging from my intuition, the government will definitely abolish all restrictions on the college entrance examination. If that's the case, Da Qi, you should take the college entrance examination too."
Daqi: "Why are you going?"
Da Zhong: "For your own sake! Don't I know you? You're just running away. You've always been a very socially responsible person, and you really want to contribute to society. I know you're talented, but you don't want to curry favor with those officials, which is why I suggested you take the college entrance exam. Brother, go for it, just treat it as a chance to relax at university. Although you didn't go to high school, I know that with your current level, getting into an ordinary university is a piece of cake. Go for it, listen to me. Only in this way will you be truly happy and joyful. I know you hate officialdom and business, but you can do research or pursue some academic knowledge. You're not short of money, so pursuing academic knowledge is a good choice. You can even become a writer, just go to university to get some experience first."
Daqi: "I used to want to be a scientist or a university professor, but now I think that's a bit unrealistic. It's difficult; I haven't read books for so many years. I've basically forgotten all the knowledge I learned in textbooks."
Da Zhong: "If you lose a book, you can pick it up again; if you forget knowledge, you can recall it. Da Qi, when have you ever been afraid? It's just the college entrance exam. I'm telling you, as long as the current college entrance exam questions don't change, I guarantee you'll pass."
Daqi said, "I haven't tried it, so I'm not really sure. Oh well, we'll see."
Da Zhong: "I've come to your house today to wish you a Happy New Year, and also to talk to you about taking the college entrance exam."
Second time, the mother-in-law's example
Daqi said, "It depends. Under normal circumstances, I won't go back to school." At this moment, Qiwen walked over and greeted Dazhong, saying, "Daqi, what are you talking about?" Daqi quickly introduced Qiwen to Dazhong and Dazhong to Qiwen.
Da Zhong said, "Your wife is truly a beauty descended from heaven, incomparably beautiful! Da Qi, you are so lucky!"
The fairy laughed, "Look at you, Kuang Dazhong, I've known about your reputation as a talented scholar for a long time. What are you talking about with my husband?" Dazhong briefly explained his desire for Daqi to take the college entrance examination. The fairy immediately said, "Husband, I think you should listen to your good friend and give it a try. I know you; you like to do things for society, you don't like to curry favor with officials, and you hate business. I think you should pursue scholarship. Scholarship requires going to university, so go and experience university life. I know you've been longing to fulfill your university dream for so many years. I recently heard from my dad that the country might abolish age and marriage restrictions for the college entrance examination. This is an opportunity for you. Listen to me, just go for it. Be true to yourself; this is something you've always emphasized." After Qiwen finished speaking, she sat down next to Daqi and started talking to the two men. Qiwen was a very smart girl. In front of outsiders, she would definitely call Daqi "husband," but in front of her family, she affectionately called Daqi "master." Daqi put his arm around Qiwen and said, "All three of you are pregnant now. This family is so big, how can we ever be without me?" Qiwen replied, "Don't worry about that. Even if all of us in our family just sit around and do nothing, we'll have enough to live on for over 50 years. Dazhong isn't an outsider, so I might as well be frank. Our bank savings have already exceeded 35 million. We also have three shops in Longhai with rent going in. You don't need to worry about our material conditions at all. Didn't you say that people always need to find something to do? I think you should consider this as finding something to do for yourself. Go and visit the university. Go and fulfill a dream, for no other reason than for yourself!"
Da Zhong said, "I've long heard that your wife is a renowned virtuous wife, and seeing is believing! I've witnessed it firsthand today. Da Qi, just listen to your wife and go ahead. After news of your donation to your alma mater spread, many classmates, especially those in university, said that while you're doing well in business now, you might not be able to get into university because you didn't attend high school. They also said that high school and junior high are different concepts; good grades in junior high don't guarantee good grades in high school, and even if you do, it doesn't guarantee a good college entrance exam score. I strongly disagreed with everyone's opinion and said you should get in." "You're the kind of person who gets in. I even made a bet with everyone: if you pass the exam, they'll treat us to a big feast; if you don't, I'll treat them to a big feast." Qiwen chuckled and said, "Your classmates are really interesting. They seem to doubt Daqi's learning ability. I can tell them that all their discussions ultimately prove one thing: my husband's learning ability is absolutely first-rate, even top-notch!" Dazhong smiled and added, "I think so too. As long as Daqi is willing to prepare diligently, I think he can get into university."
Daqi smiled and said, "I've even withdrawn from the business world, why would I care about other people's opinions? Dazhong, Qiwen and the others are pregnant. I think we should just forget about it and focus on being my father." Qiwen immediately said, "But have you ever been happy? Ask yourself, why did you donate to the poor students at your alma mater? Wasn't it so that they could all fulfill their dreams of going to university? You can help others fulfill their dreams, why don't you fulfill your own? You often say that your biggest regret in life is not going to university, now that the opportunity has come, go and fulfill it. Just like you said to Xiaoman, it's just for fun. Husband, go, firstly, it's for fun, secondly, it's to fulfill your dream, and thirdly, it's to show those who doubt you who the real king is!" Dazhong said, "Sister-in-law, you're so eloquent, I admire you!" Qiwen continued, "Husband, wherever you go to university, our whole family will buy a villa there, we'll all be by your side to accompany you to university."
Perhaps it was because of his shattered dreams, perhaps it was because of his good friend Da Zhong's persuasion, or perhaps it was because of Fairy Qi Wen's encouragement, but Da Qi was actually a little tempted. However, he still sighed and said, "Let's see what the national college entrance examination policy is like first. Come on, Da Zhong, let's go for a drink!" Qi Wen smiled and went to prepare the feast.
At the banquet, Daqi and his old friend Dazhong chatted and laughed. Daqi's 17 beautiful wives, including his mother-in-law, all came out to greet Dazhong. Dazhong laughed and said, "You're really something, having 16 beauties by your side. I never thought that Meiting, the former school beauty from No. 1 Middle School, would be with you too." Meiting smiled at Dazhong and said, "Old classmate, it's been years since I've seen you." Dazhong said, "I haven't seen you since graduating from junior high school. Now that I see you, you and Daqi are a couple." Daqi said to his wives, "Each of you should toast my good friend Dazhong with a drink." Dazhong quickly shook his head and said, "No, no, I can't drink as much as your whole family." Pingjia smiled and said, "Brother Dazhong, this is the first time you've drunk with us, you have to give us face!" The wives all echoed, saying that Dazhong should toast everyone. Seeing that every beauty insisted, Dazhong had no choice but to drink one cup after another, and soon he had drunk nearly 20 cups of wine. Daqi was very happy because Dazhong was drunk, and he personally drove him home.
Over the next few days, Daqi was repeatedly urged by his wives to go to university. Their urgings were as follows.
First wife, Fairy Wen: "My dear husband, you should go and take the college entrance exam. Don't worry about the baby after it's born; there are so many sisters in the family, someone will take care of me."
Second wife Xiao Li: "My dear, it would be good for you to take a stroll around the university campus. Going to university doesn't mean anything, but if you want to go, then go."
Concubine Mu Ping: "My beloved husband, why don't you go to the university campus for a few years to recuperate? Sister Wen and I have already discussed it, wherever you go for your exams, we'll go with you."
Qianru said to Chunxiao, "Honey, I think it's better to apply to universities in our own province, like Rongzhou. Our workplaces are all in Rongzhou. Wen's clothing store and Lijie's coffee shop are both in Rongzhou, and we even have a villa there. It'll be more convenient to apply to universities in Rongzhou."
Lijie, Yulou, Suping, and Pingjia said, "Master, wherever you go, we'll go. It doesn't matter if the coffee shop closes or reopens."
Jia Ran said, "My dear Dada, I have no objection to where you go, but Xiaoman is still studying at university in Rongzhou."
Xiaoman said, "Daqi, why don't you just apply to Binhai Normal University and become my classmate?"
Ye Huan and Zheng
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