He knew that Ning Zhiheng was not only a member of the Fujiwara family in Kyoto, but also a guest of General Uehara Junpei of the intelligence department, so he had always wanted to befriend him. Today, he actually saw Ning Zhiheng again, so he called out to him.

"Yes, I had some things to discuss with General Uehara, and he even gave me this calligraphy!" Ning Zhiheng replied with a smile, then waved the calligraphy in his hand with a hint of pride.

His actions are very much in line with his age; he is a slightly naive young literary enthusiast who has received the favor of his elders.

Upon hearing this, Ishikawa Takeshi was indeed very envious. Those who handled intelligence in the military were privileged departments, and the military commander, Uehara Junpei, wielded astonishing power. If he could establish a connection with them, it would certainly be extremely beneficial for Ishikawa Takeshi.

"Fujiwara-kun, it's truly remarkable to have earned the courtesy name of General Uehara. It's something to celebrate! How about we go out for a drink at noon?" Ishikawa Takeshi took this opportunity to invite him. The best way for men to build rapport is through a few drinks. Before long, they can become close friends and have a good chat!

Ning Zhiheng smiled slightly and said, "That would be wonderful! I just arrived in Shanghai and was worried about not having any friends to keep me company. I'll definitely keep you company!"

Takeshi Ishikawa glanced at his watch and said, "I still have some work to do. I'll be waiting for you at Shimizu Sake Bar at noon!"

"Okay, see you later!" Ning Zhiheng nodded in agreement, gave a slight bow, and turned to leave the garrison headquarters.

Two officers on duty nearby overheard the conversation. One of them stepped forward and asked, "Ishikawa-kun, who is this young man? And how did he manage to gain the favor of General Uehara?"

Ishikawa Takeshi smiled and said, "He is a member of the Fujiwara family of Kyoto. He is highly regarded by General Uehara. Last time he came, he visited General Uehara with Mr. Kuroki Takeichi!"

Upon hearing Ishikawa Takeshi's words, both officers nodded. This was yet another nobleman's son. Although his status here was not prominent, his identity in the country was higher than theirs.

Ning Zhiheng returned to the South House Library and went to Kuroki Yueyi's office. He recounted his meeting with Uehara Junpei, intending to seek advice from his elder.

Unfolding Uehara Junpei's calligraphy and examining it carefully for a moment, Kuroki Gakuichi smiled and said, "You did a very good job, especially this piece. Uehara is most proud of his calligraphy, which is indeed excellent. Mount it properly and keep it as a treasure!"

He was very satisfied with Ning Zhiheng's performance. This young man was humble and unassuming, and his gentle and unassuming manner made people feel very comfortable. He was indeed a talented scholar.

"Do a good job, and feel free to ask me anytime if you have any questions."

"Hey, I understand!"

Ning Zhiheng returned to his office, put down the manuscript, checked the time, and lost interest in organizing the manuscript. He simply got up again and went to a Chinese-owned calligraphy and painting shop on Songhu Street. He asked someone to mount Uehara Junpei's calligraphy, left the painting, and said he would come to pick it up in two days.

After explaining things to the shop owner, he left. Seeing that it was almost noon, he went to the busiest street in Hongkou District and found the Shimizu Sake Bar that Ishikawa Takeshi had mentioned.

This is a well-known bar in Hongkou District. Many Japanese people come here for a drink after get off work, but most of them come in the evening. They don't drink much at lunchtime. So he found a good spot near the bar and waited for Takeshi Ishikawa to arrive.

At this time, most of the people in the tavern were dressed in suits and kimonos, and there were two officers in military uniforms talking.

Not long after, Takeshi Ishikawa arrived. As soon as he entered, he saw Ning Zhiheng already waiting for him. He quickly walked up to Ning Zhiheng and said with a smile, "Fujiwara-kun, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."

Ning Zhiheng waved his hand and smiled slightly: "Not at all, I just arrived a little while ago."

They then ordered some food and drinks, and the two began to toast and chat. Ishikawa Takeshi was a few years older than Ning Zhiheng, but their statuses were similar, and since they were both deliberately trying to get to know each other, they soon became very familiar with each other.

The two got along very well during lunch. Since it was noon and they both had their own work to do in the afternoon, and both were very self-disciplined, they said goodbye an hour later and agreed to have a few more drinks next time!