Chapter 5, The Banquet at the Central Hotel
After Shen Xingshan's defection to "Sanxin," most people still followed Lu Lianhui, while some whose interests were tied to Shen Xingshan also defected alongside him. Therefore, the underworld forces in the International Settlement are now generally divided into two factions, led respectively by Lu Lianhui and Shen Xingshan
Lu Lianqu's current prominence in the public concession is largely attributable to the irreplaceable contributions of Miao Yixiang. However, very few people are aware of her existence. Most only know that Lu Lianqu's hotel and restaurant are managed by his fourth concubine.
Miao Yixiang similarly displayed a flirtatious and uninhibited side, half leaning against Lu Liankui while continuously feeding him wine
This woman was originally from Suzhou. At the age of seventeen, she came to Shanghai and worked at a "book house." As a result, she caught the eye of Lu Lian Kui, who redeemed her.
After the British Empire joined the global anti-drug organization, the public concession had no choice but to enforce a ban on opium. Although this resulted in significant losses, it was compelled to endure the pain of implementing the ban due to both international and domestic pressures. Du Yuesheng had long aspired to unify the opium market in Shanghai, and this situation provided him with an opportunity. The eight major opium dealers from Chaozhou—Zheng Qiaji, Guo Yuanmao, Guo Yusheng, Lao Yuchang, Zheng Xieji, Guo Jinyu, Lao Dayun, Lao Qiaji, Tongchang, and Hongchang—rushed into the French concession. It was also during this time that Shen Xingshan pledged his loyalty to "Sanxin." The eight major opium dealers from Chaozhou—Zheng Qiaji, Guo Yuanmao, Guo Yusheng, Lao Yuchang, Zheng Xieji, Guo Jinyu, Lao Dayun, Lao Qiaji, Tongchang, and Hongchang—rushed into the French concession, and it was also during this time that Shen Xingshan pledged his loyalty to "Sanxin."
Miao Yixiang occasionally interjected during the conversation, seizing the opportunity to cast glances at Long Chongjiu.
Long Chongjiu scratched his head and said with a faint smile: "Lord Kui, the more things happen at this time, the less people will suspect you. If it were at another time, they would certainly think to place this blame on you."
At this moment, Ma Derong was also taken aback by Long Chongjiu's words, his intoxication from the books completely dissipating. How bold this young man is to actually dare to propose such a thing
At the moment of first encountering Long Chongjiu, Miao Yixiang's heart trembled subtly. This person seemed to exude a quality that did not belong to this era. Having encountered countless individuals, she had never seen such a demeanor. Although he did not possess the handsome, delicate features of a pretty boy, he exhibited a rugged and robust outline, which could be described as a purely masculine visage. Particularly striking were his eyes, deep and cold like stars, making it impossible to discern his thoughts. Coupled with his tall and sturdy physique, there emanated an irresistible aura of masculinity.
Long Chong nodded slightly, yet felt a twinge of regret for revealing his strength so soon. The gathering continued until the moon hung high in the sky.
The two industries of Lu Lian-kui have caused countless wealthy families to go bankrupt, a number that is beyond calculation. Just in terms of debt repayment, the number of others' wives and concubines collected amounts to over a hundred. These former noble ladies and affluent concubines have no choice but to bend over and endure the latter half of their lives
With just a glance, he gave himself such a profound sense of obsession; if they were to interact for a long time... it is simply unimaginable
Only two people attended the banquet: one was Lu Liankui's most trusted disciple, Ma Derong, and the other was his most favored fourth concubine, Miao Yixiang. This woman is exceptionally capable, sharp-witted, and possesses both beauty and talent. Lu Liankui listens to her every word.
The Central Hotel, a premier establishment on the Bund in Shanghai, is indeed the private property of Lu Lian Kui. Additionally, there is the Zhongnan Hotel. How he acquired these two assets remains a mystery to everyone. However, given his background in the underworld, it is highly likely that he obtained them through unscrupulous means.
Miao Yixiang, under the careful guidance of Lu Lian Kui, showcased her innate talents and completely captivated him in less than a year. She not only provided Lu Lian Kui with immense pleasure on a physical level but also contributed numerous ideas to his career.
She single-handedly managed both the income and expenses, while Lu Liankui rarely intervened. If there is one aspect he is somewhat dissatisfied with regarding Miao Yixiang, it is that she has not given him a "descendant" in the six years. It is unclear whose issue this really is.
Under the introduction of Lu Lian Kui, Long Chong Jiu met with the fourth concubine and the current inspector of the British police station, Ma De Rong
Lu Lian Kui furrowed his brow, glanced at Long Chong Jiu, and pondered: "It seems this matter requires careful consideration. Tomorrow is not a suitable opportunity; it is the birthday of Ma Lian Rong's woman, and all the prominent figures of Shanghai will be present, including those from the political, business, and concession sectors. If anything were to happen, Ma Lian Rong would not be able to bear the shame and would certainly not be willing to let it go. What do you think, Xiao Jiu?"
Long Chongjiu appropriately revealed a look of "astonishment"; he did not wish to appear too profound, which would only deepen Lu Liankui's reservations about him. By revealing some "flaws," he believed Lu would feel more confident in controlling him
What a scheming and profound beauty; from this alone, it can be inferred that this fourth concubine and Lu Lian Kui are not of one mind.
No one knows the fluctuations in Miaoyi's heart. She is deeply aware of Lu Lian Kui's character. If she wishes to harm any man, she only needs to show him a hint of interest, and Lu Lian Kui will make him disappear, ensuring he never appears before the Fourth Concubine again.
"Shuyu" is the most upscale brothel of this era. None of the courtesans at "Shuyu" are for sale; if you wish to indulge, you must pay a hefty price to take them home. Guaranteed credibility, the courtesans at "Shuyu" are absolutely virgins.
Looking at the confident smile on Long Chongjiu's face, Lu Liankui felt as if he had truly aged. After a long pause, he said: "In every generation, there are talented individuals who emerge. Little Jiuzi, if this matter is handled well, I, Lu Liankui, will certainly not treat you unfairly."
After three rounds of drinks, Lu Liankui's face was glowing with health, and Ma Derong's complexion had also become much rosier. Long Chongjiu enjoyed the taste of foreign liquor; although the alcohol was quite strong, he showed no signs of intoxication, maintaining an air of calm and composure, handling the situation with ease.
This can be considered his stronghold, with everything from smoking rooms, brothels, and gambling halls to restaurants, dance halls, and nightclubs all available. As long as you have money, this place will undoubtedly provide you with immense pleasure and satisfaction
His eyes were deeply sunken, his face gaunt and emaciated. Every now and then, he would yawn, clearly resembling a "smoker." Coupled with his dull, lifeless gaze, the fleeting glimmer of desire that appeared when he glanced at the fourth concubine further revealed him to be a lecherous man.
Thus, Miao Yixiang usually presents herself as exceedingly proud, seemingly looking down on everything. In reality, she simply does not wish to create misfortune for herself. "Though I do not kill Bo Ren, Bo Ren dies because of me," she accumulates a bit of hidden virtue to avoid falling into the eighteen layers of hell after death
Lu Lian Kui was very satisfied with Miao Yi Xiang's reaction; she didn't even spare a glance at Long Chong Jiu, displaying her disdain for him
The banquet was exceptionally lavish, featuring everything that could fly in the sky, walk on the ground, swim in the sea, and dart in the mountains, with an abundance of delicacies and a wide array of beverages. There were foreign wines, Shaoxing wine, and white liquor. In old Shanghai, aside from whiskey and brandy, Shaoxing wine, which is a type of yellow wine, was the most popular. Additionally, there were cigarettes, cigars, opium, and heroin, reflecting the remarkable stature of the underworld elite.
With a renewed spirit, Ma Derong hurriedly said: "Master, rest assured, news has already come back. Tomorrow is Luolan Chun's birthday, and Lao Mapi will host a grand banquet at 'Rongji Grand Theatre.' He has invited famous performers such as Mei Lanfang, Ma Lianliang, Jin Shaoshan, Cheng Jixian, Ye Shenglan, Xiao Changhua, Shang Xiaoyun, and Cheng Yanqiu to sing for a whole day, concluding only at midnight. Both you and Shen Xingshan are on the guest list."
Ma Derong, in his mid-thirties to late thirties, is lean and capable, dressed appropriately in a long gown and top hat, with white sleeves rolled up, presenting the appearance of a "gentleman" or socialite. However, his looks are too "ruffian" to truly embody the demeanor of a "gentleman," leaving an impression that is incongruous and out of place.
In those watery phoenix eyes, there subtly emerged an inexplicable longing. She was regal and elegant, her demeanor refined. The adornments—headdress, earrings, necklace, bracelets, and rings—each showcased her noble status in this era
In today's public concession, apart from the secretly operated opium dens, only Lu Lian-kui's Zhongnan Pavilion and the Central Hotel dare to openly sell opium.
Lu Lian Kui reached out and half-embraced her waist, almost lifting her onto his thigh, as if to declare to the two people present, "This is my woman," vividly embodying the image of a rogue bully
It is indeed the case that a young person in the bloom of life is being wasted on a middle-aged man with a waist-high stature in the yellow earth; this cannot be considered love at all
"Derong, have you taken care of your matters and the library this afternoon?" Lu Lian Kui said, reclining in his chair, squinting with bleary eyes.
Of course, he was also aware of Lu Lian Kui's temperament, so he always stole glances at Miao Yixiang when Lu Lian Kui was not paying attention to him
These two individuals also have a discord between their outward demeanor and inner feelings. Lu Liankui does not dare to easily take action against Shen Xingshan, after all, the other party has the support of the "three magnates"
In old Shanghai, having power was of utmost importance, and Lu Lianhui was undoubtedly the leader of the Chinese underworld in the International Settlement
On that night, Lu Lian Kui warmly hosted Long Chong Jiu in a luxurious hall on the third floor of the inn, and they further discussed important matters
Lu Lian Kui, a seasoned veteran, suddenly widened his eyes and said in a deep voice: "A man without poison is not a true man; a man of small measure is not a gentleman. Are you confident?"
However, Long Chongjiu was not as lacking in insight as Lu Liankui. The first time he laid eyes on this woman, he captured a glimpse of something extraordinary in her gaze. It was but a fleeting moment, yet he couldn't help but admire her in his heart. He certainly understood the key to it all; it was due to Lu Liankui. Moreover, Lu Liankui's furtive examination of Miao Yixiang's demeanor further confirmed his suspicions.
"Master Kui, you may drink your wine and listen to your opera; everything will happen without anyone noticing."
Miao Yixiang felt a tightening in her heart; she was already intelligent and vaguely sensed that the young people at today's banquet were not ordinary. It turned out they had important matters to discuss, and she couldn't help but direct a touch of the brilliant autumn light onto Long Chongjiu's face
The twenty-three or twenty-four-year-old Miao Yixiang is indeed remarkable, with a face as delicate as a hibiscus and slender eyebrows like willow leaves. On her tender white face, not a trace of flaw can be found. The floral silk satin qipao tightly wraps around her voluptuous and elongated figure, with a high side slit that reveals her dazzlingly sexy thighs.