Ninety-two

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Zhang Bao’s words left Wang Bo somewhat puzzled, and he quickly asked, “Why does it have to be kept so secret?”

Zhang Bao chuckled softly. “Of course, it’s for brewing the wine.”

“But even for brewing wine, it doesn’t have to be this secretive,” Wang Bo said, still confused.

“Little Bo, that’s where you don’t know. You see, our Zhang family distillery is quite famous throughout Changshan County and even the entire Jizhou region. It’s one of the main sources of the Zhang family’s wealth. The brewing method is a closely guarded secret, watched over by many families. Without secrecy, what do you think would happen?” Zhang Bao said with a smile.

“But wouldn’t it be better to keep it at Zhang Family Fort?” Wang Bo asked.

Zhang Bao smiled mysteriously and said, “Haven’t you thought about it?”

Wang Bo suddenly understood. “The most dangerous place is also the safest. People, just like I did earlier, all assume the distillery is at Zhang Family Fort.”

“Ha ha, you didn’t disappoint me, Little Bo. That’s one reason,” Zhang Bao laughed heartily.

“But just because I can think of it doesn’t mean others can’t,” Wang Bo muttered.

“That’s where you’re mistaken. The Zhang family in Zhending City commands great respect. Even the Prefect must show some deference when meeting the head of our family. Who in Zhending City would dare to casually pry into the Zhang family’s affairs?”

“Wow,” Wang Bo drew a sharp breath, surprised that just one noble family could wield such power.

Wang Bo looked at Zhang Bao with curiosity, pondering for a moment but still not quite grasping everything. Suddenly, he asked, “But I don’t understand. Why would you, the shopkeeper, reveal such a big secret to me? Aren’t you afraid I might leak it?”

Wang Bo fixed his gaze on Zhang Bao, trying hard to read something from his face. But Zhang Bao just smiled warmly. Wang Bo had no choice but to give up.

“Heh, after all these years as a shopkeeper, while I can’t say I’ve met countless people, I’m confident in judging character. I believe you’re not the kind of person who would betray me,” Zhang Bao said, his eyes showing a peculiar gleam, his expression brimming with confidence.

“Oh, shopkeeper, you’re really that confident?” Wang Bo grinned mischievously. Seeing Wang Bo’s grin, Zhang Bao could no longer maintain his earlier assured demeanor. This kid was tricky, always seemed to have some mischief brewing. Sometimes Wang Bo acted mature like an adult; other times, like a child. Such extremes in one person were baffling.

“Actually, there’s more to this matter, some hidden reasons. Honestly, I don’t want to talk about it,” Zhang Bao hesitated, then looked at Wang Bo solemnly. Seeing this, Wang Bo wiped away his playful expression and looked serious, waiting for an answer.

Zhang Bao paced back and forth in the room, then stopped and turned to Wang Bo. The cheerful smile was gone, replaced by a face of weariness and sorrow.

Seeing this, Wang Bo was alarmed. “Shopkeeper, what’s wrong? Why such an expression?”

“Don’t worry, Little Bo, I’m fine,” Zhang Bao waved his hand reassuringly. “It’s just this: you know the saying, among the three greatest acts of unfilial conduct, having no heir is the worst.”

Wang Bo nodded in understanding.

“I am that unfilial son,” Zhang Bao said, his voice rising almost to a shout as he spoke.

Although Wang Bo didn’t fully comprehend Zhang Bao’s feelings, from his demeanor it was clear this matter haunted him like a nightmare, a torment he could never shake.

“Don’t laugh, but I’m already an old man and still have no children. I’ve tried countless methods, consulted many famous doctors, even drank the talisman water I once didn’t believe in. Still, nothing. So I had to adopt a child from my wife’s relatives, hoping he’d inherit the distillery and carry on the family legacy. But you’ve seen his character. After I’m gone, how could I entrust the distillery to him?”

Listening to Zhang Bao, Wang Bo nodded repeatedly. Indeed, that boy was weak and cowardly, always looking for shortcuts. Such a person could never handle the distillery; entrusting him would be self-destruction.

“Even you can see he’s useless. So how could I bear to hand the distillery over to him? That’s why all these years I’ve been searching for a capable, kind-hearted, and clever child to inherit the distillery.”

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At this, Wang Bo suddenly interrupted, “Shopkeeper, since this isn’t your family’s business, why are you so invested? Doesn’t the Zhang family have suitable heirs?”

Zhang Bao gave a bitter smile. “I knew you’d ask that. You see, although the Zhang family distillery isn’t mine, I’ve been its shopkeeper for half my life. I’ve poured my heart and soul into it; my feelings for it surpass even my own family. Watching it handed over to someone else? I couldn’t bear it. Though the Zhang family seems vast, it’s decaying. The side branches have no successors, and the main line has only one daughter.”

“So, shopkeeper, what do you want from me?” Wang Bo guessed.

“That’s right. I want to train you, to have you take over the distillery,” Zhang Bao said, staring intently at Wang Bo.

“Why me? You’ve only known me for two days,” Wang Bo asked.

“Though I’ve only known you briefly, from what I’ve observed, you’re a promising candidate,” Zhang Bao paused, then continued, “First, you’re smart. Over these two days, I’ve seen your sharp mind and maturity beyond your years. Second, you know business. Though your methods are a bit naive, among your peers, you are the best I’ve seen. Lastly, you’re honest and modest, without grand ambitions or a penchant for trouble.” A spark gleamed in Zhang Bao’s eyes.

Hearing this, Wang Bo was surprised. He hadn’t expected to be viewed so highly. He even doubted himself. “Could I really be that good?”

After Zhang Bao finished, Wang Bo joked self-deprecatingly, “Didn’t expect I’d carry such weight in your eyes, shopkeeper.”

Noticing Wang Bo’s tone, Zhang Bao comforted him, “Little Bo, no need to mock yourself. Your potential is undeniable, but you have shortcomings. You’re intelligent but lack communication skills. When facing others, with your current speaking ability, you’d be at a disadvantage.”

On this point, Wang Bo couldn’t disagree. In his past life, he was a recluse who seldom interacted with others, and in this life he was even more withdrawn, leaving him ill-prepared for social interaction.

“Also, your mindset needs work. You hesitate and overthink, lacking decisiveness. That makes you vulnerable to being struck where it hurts,” Zhang Bao paused, then, perhaps tired of standing, sat on the bed and continued, “Most importantly, you’re too soft-hearted. Kindness is good, but not in business. Business is like warfare. If you show mercy to your enemies, you’re betraying your own soldiers. Likewise, being soft with your opponents means failing your shop and your workers.” Zhang Bao looked at Wang Bo meaningfully, his eyes filled with hope.

Wang Bo nodded, amazed that such insight existed even in the late Han period.

“So, I want you to learn commerce from me,” Zhang Bao said, a little nervous. After all, merchants ranked low socially in ancient times, at the bottom of commoners. He wasn’t sure how Wang Bo would respond.

“Well…” Wang Bo pretended to ponder. He didn’t look down on merchants but considered Zhang Bao’s words carefully. Agreeing meant becoming a direct subordinate of the Zhang family, responsible for the entire distillery. The thought was daunting; he didn’t want a busy, mentally taxing life.

Seeing Wang Bo hesitate, Zhang Bao grew anxious and urged, “Little Bo, don’t underestimate merchants. There are benefits, and you can build your own career under the Zhang family’s umbrella. That will help you greatly.”

This struck a chord with Wang Bo. “Right! Why didn’t I think of that? Once my own career is stable, I can break free from the Zhang family.”

After some thought, Wang Bo finally nodded. “Alright, shopkeeper. I’ll learn business from you.”

He had no idea how much this decision would affect his future.

Zhang Bao was overjoyed. “Ha ha ha, I’m glad you agreed.”

“But shopkeeper, I’ll learn, but I can’t promise how much I’ll absorb. Don’t be disappointed,” Wang Bo said helplessly.

“No need for formalities. Call me uncle from now on. As long as you’re willing, I’ll teach you carefully,” Zhang Bao said, thrilled by Wang Bo’s acceptance.

Seeing Zhang Bao like this, an idea suddenly crossed Wang Bo’s mind, and he grinned mischievously.

Noticing Wang Bo’s smile, Zhang Bao became alert and wary. He thought to himself, “This kid is clever. I might have to keep a close eye on him.”

“Alright, stop smiling. If you have any mischievous ideas, just say them. If I can help, I will,” Zhang Bao said, unable to bear Wang Bo’s grin any longer.

“Heh, that’s what I wanted to hear,” Wang Bo thought inwardly. Then he wore an embarrassed expression and said, “It’s nothing much… I’m just a bit homesick. So…”

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“So what? You want to go home?” Zhang Bao asked suspiciously.

“Not exactly to go home, just that every seven days, I’d like two days off to rest at home. Of course, still paid,” Wang Bo said shyly. “It’s like a weekend off, even though the workday isn’t eight hours.” He smiled happily at the thought.

Hearing this, Zhang Bao’s expression was indescribable. While it was within his power to grant, two days off every seven days with full pay? If the other workers found out, what would they think? This kid was truly cunning.

“Little Bo,” Zhang Bao rubbed his hands nervously, forcing a smile, “Can we maybe discuss this?”

“No discussion,” Wang Bo shook his head firmly. Then he said, “Shopkeeper, you told me just now to strike decisively, right? Heh.”

“You…” Zhang Bao pointed at Wang Bo, conflicted and speechless.

“What’s wrong, shopkeeper?” Wang Bo chuckled. “Did I say something wrong? You said it yourself.”

Seeing Wang Bo’s somewhat roguish look, Zhang Bao could only shake his head helplessly. “Fine. You asked for it. Since I agreed, so be it. But from now on, you must study hard with me. If you don’t meet my expectations, I’ll cancel the arrangement and report your performance to your father.”

Hearing this, Wang Bo’s face twisted in displeasure. “Shopkeeper, you’re quite cunning.”

Seeing Wang Bo’s defiance, Zhang Bao was delighted, nodding proudly and laughing, “Naturally.”

“Alright then, I’ll do my best not to disappoint you,” Wang Bo said after some thought, resigned but determined.

Zhang Bao was very pleased. “Remember your words. Well, I’ve kept you long enough. Rest well; work starts tomorrow.” Having said all he needed, Zhang Bao rose and left, leaving Wang Bo alone.

After Zhang Bao left, Wang Bo inspected the room he was assigned. It was a single room, with a neatly made bed and a small table likely used for meals. Aside from that, there was little else. Though simply furnished, it was far better than his old straw hut. Contentment came from simplicity.

He wasn’t in the mood to arrange his belongings. He tossed the bundle he always carried onto the bed and lay down stiffly, motionless. As he rested, his thoughts drifted back to Zhang Bao’s words. Gradually, he slipped into dreams.

“Knock, knock, knock.” A sudden knock disturbed Wang Bo’s pleasant dreams. He rubbed his sleepy eyes and saw that darkness had fallen.

“Little Bo, are you in there? Dinner’s ready,” Zhang Bao’s voice called.

Hearing this, Wang Bo felt touched. The shopkeeper had finished eating and still came personally to call him. Such kindness was rare. Despite his own plans, Zhang Bao cared for him. Wang Bo hurried to open the door and saw Zhang Bao’s stout figure.

“Let’s go eat,” Zhang Bao said, grabbing Wang Bo’s hand and pulling him forward without waiting.

They reached the innermost part of the courtyard. Zhang Bao pushed open the door and led Wang Bo inside. Several women sat around the table but hadn’t started eating.

“All right, let’s begin. You may eat now,” Zhang Bao sat at the main seat and said to Wang Bo. At his word, the women began to eat.

Looking at the women, Wang Bo felt embarrassed. He hurriedly bowed and apologized. “I’m sorry to keep you all waiting.”

The eldest Madame Zhang nodded and said, “Little Bo, no need for such formality. Sit and eat.”

Zhang Bao smiled and said the same. After receiving their response, Wang Bo sat down to eat. Perhaps his earlier apology had its effect, as the wives kept adding food to Wang Bo’s bowl, making him a bit shy, while Zhang Bao smiled contentedly beside him.