opponent
Asking such a sensitive question right off the bat—that's Zhang Chong for you. Qingcheng smiled slightly and parted her red lips: "Of course I knew immediately."
Zhang Chong gently put down his coffee cup, stared at her, and said slowly and deliberately, "Editor He, you'd better think carefully before you answer."
“What’s there to think about? Our newspaper is one of the top newspapers in Shanghai. Sending a plane to publish such a sensational story would be disrespectful to journalism if we were to delay it,” Kiyosumi said proudly with a smile.
Zhang Chong frowned slightly: "Journalism does indeed emphasize effectiveness. The news of the Ruijin bombing spread so quickly, it's as if someone had foreseen it. I wonder what Editor He thinks about this?"
"It is our responsibility as journalists to spread the truth. As for foresight... haha, that should be considered a reporter's on-the-spot reaction." Kiyosumi's tone was calm, answering questions directly without uttering a single superfluous word.
Zhang Chong remained calm and asked another open-ended question: "Your reporters sound very capable, and Editor He also has a press pass. If you were on the scene, what action would you have taken?"
“What a stationed reporter can do, I can do too. This is the basic quality of our application team.” Qingcheng answered something, but it also seemed like she didn’t answer anything at all.
“There is a difference between the quality of a team and the quality of an individual. I see that your editorial is full of criticism of Nanjing and sympathy for the people in the Red Area. Is this your stance or the stance of the State Council?” Zhang Chong’s voice was deep and powerful.
"No, it's the people's perspective. When a normal person sees houses collapsed, farmland destroyed, and people displaced and destitute, shouldn't their first reaction be to curse the culprits who caused this situation? Just because they have lived in Ruijin for generations, and now that the jurisdiction has changed and become a red zone, do they no longer count as Chinese?" Qingcheng asked rhetorically, propping up his arm.
Zhang Chong scoffed softly, not quite agreeing: "Of course they are still our citizens. It's just that when two armies clash, it's inevitable that innocent bystanders will be affected. Once the war is over, things will get better."
Clearly sensing his lack of confidence, Qingcheng's tone became even more forceful: "So you think that if the common people suffer, you officials will be happy, right?"
Like a cat whose tail has been stepped on, Zhang Chong's body flashed with a cold light as he said sternly, "Editor He, watch your words. Nanjing has its own difficulties, and governing a country is not as simple as you think."
“I completely agree with that. It is precisely because we are a vast country with abundant resources that we need diverse voices to solve complex social problems.” Qingcheng stepped back slightly. “You don’t need to get too excited. My criticism of Nanjing comes from deep love and concern. If it were someone else’s mess, I wouldn’t even bother to look at it, let alone comment on it. If Nanjing can’t even handle this much criticism, then its dream of unifying China is just wishful thinking.”
Zhang Chong's expression softened: "Editor He, I'm not questioning your stance, but we must first secure the home front before we can fight external threats. Once the internal situation is stable, we can then drive out the foreign powers and eliminate the remnants of feudalism. This will prevent us from being attacked from both sides and save us a lot of unnecessary trouble."
"Forgive my bluntness, but this is typical warlord thinking. It completely lacks a global perspective. After all, the soldiers on the front lines only need to think about fighting bloody battles, while the lords in the rear have many more things to consider, such as whether they have made enough money or whether their concubines are pretty. When people think too much, they are prone to losing their hair and becoming like princes."
Qingcheng continued to mock, "As for national dignity, international status, territorial integrity, it's too complicated. The men don't like to think about it. At worst, they can just immigrate with their concubines. Whoever wants to stay in this crappy country can stay. It's just pitiful for us who bear the responsibility of revitalizing China. We've been messed up by these troublemakers, and all those years of studying have been for nothing."
Every word was piercing. Zhang Chong closed his eyes and pressed his temples: "Heh~ Editor He is just as sharp-tongued as the rumors say. Your keen political sense and incisive analysis of the political situation are not common among women."
“I don’t think it’s common among men either.” Kiyosumi raised the corners of her mouth confidently. “The rise and fall of the nation is the responsibility of every citizen. Everyone has the right to care about the future of the country. Or do you think that human intelligence is limited by gender, and that women cannot make important analyses and decisions calmly and objectively at critical moments?”
Zhang Chong took a small sip of coffee, looking somewhat annoyed: "Editor He, I had no intention of offending my fellow women. I did misspoke just now, and I apologize."
Ha! So humble in admitting your mistake and correcting it. Qingcheng was somewhat surprised, but she dared not let her guard down and tentatively asked, "Mr. Zhang, we are now in the Republic of China era. Some old ideas need to be changed. If you had a daughter, would you prefer her to live in a feudal autocratic country or a free and equal country?"
Zhang Chong's gaze slid towards the window, and his tone softened: "Of course, it's a free and equal country."
“It seems you will be an enlightened father. I wonder if you have read the Declaration of Women’s Rights drafted by Ms. Song and Ms. Huang. If you have also read Mr. Sun’s Three Principles of the People, then you should be able to understand the good intentions of the pioneers of the women’s world.” Qingcheng’s words were firm and resounding: “Women’s liberation means national liberation. Only after national liberation can China be revitalized.”
Silence fell over the room, but after a moment, Zhang Chong regained his composure: "Editor He's insights are profound. Since you've mentioned the Three Principles of the People, you must have also encountered other dazzling ideas and doctrines. Which doctrine do you think best meets your expectations?"
Cough cough, Qingcheng almost choked on the water, and said half-jokingly, "Mr. Zhang is so blunt. I'm just a small editor. You didn't record me, did you? I'm so scared."
“This is a cake shop, not an office.” Zhang Chong waved for the staff to go outside and wait. “Now it’s just the two of us, so you can speak freely.”
"Mr. Zhang, you're really bold. Aren't you afraid that what you say will affect your career?" Qingcheng feigned interest, seeing Zhang Chong's confident demeanor. "Do you want to hear the truth, or a lie?"
"Either is fine." Zhang Chong spread his hands, and something glittered from his sleeve.
“Alright, I believe Mr. Zhang is a man of his word,” Qingcheng said with a smile. “I think any ideology or thought should be centered on the well-being of the people. For example, how do they serve the people? How do they safeguard the independence and dignity of the country? How do they promote social fairness and justice? How do they defeat bandits? How do they eradicate feudal ills such as opium dens and brothels?… Shall I continue?”
"I suppose Editor He already has the answer in his heart." Zhang Chong slowly raised his eyes, a mocking smile on his lips.
“Mr. Zhang is mistaken. It’s not that I have the answer, it’s that you do. It seems that deep down you’ve already tied a certain ideology to the change I just mentioned.” Qingcheng blinked. “I wonder if what you’re thinking is the same ideology I’m thinking about? You’re the examiner, why don’t you go first?”
“Fine!” Zhang Chong accepted the challenge without hesitation. “I firmly believe that the Three Principles of the People are the only path for our country to achieve prosperity and strength. Nationalism unites us to resist foreign oppression; democracy gives our people the right to participate in national affairs; and people’s livelihood focuses on the well-being and lives of our people.”
“These three elements complement each other. It was by relying on these three points that Mr. Sun Yat-sen overthrew the Qing Dynasty and brought the Chinese revolution from scratch. This was an unprecedented and great achievement. Even though the immaturity of the internal system led to the failure of the Xinhai Revolution, any subsequent ideology had to step on the foundation of the Xinhai Revolution and move forward step by step.” Zhang Chong’s eyes revealed an almost missionary-like enthusiasm.
Not a single word was mentioned about Nanjing, so it was indeed a Sun faction. Qingcheng felt reassured: "Mr. Sun's contribution to the Chinese revolution is beyond doubt. With his revolutionary status, he will definitely leave a mark in the history books. But what about you? How will the people of a hundred years from now evaluate this history?"
Before Zhang Chong could reply, Qingcheng answered his own question: "In a certain year of the Republic of China, the world was in chaos. A certain warlord, prioritizing his own interests, disregarded the foreign enemy and wantonly bombed civilian houses in Ruijin, resulting in over ten thousand deaths and injuries. Cries of agony filled the fields. Houses were no longer houses, and people were no longer people. Alas! The rebel did not consider the people's interests, but sought to satisfy his momentary pleasure and dominate the region. The people's resentment boiled over, and they rose up in rebellion. He brought disaster upon himself. How tragic!"
"Sun Yat-sen was known for his benevolent heart and his ability to unite the people, which led to his sainthood. However, his successors, driven by the self-interest of warlords, could not last long. The people are the foundation of a nation; what good is internal stability if the people are not considered the foundation? The river of history flows ever onward; those who go with the current prosper, and those who go against it perish. May future generations learn from this."
After speaking, Zhang Chong's mouth opened slightly, but after a few seconds he regained his composure and praised, "Editor He, it's a waste of your talent to stay in Shenbao. You should go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You weren't there when Ruijin was bombed. If it were you, you could definitely send back first-hand information and save the people of Ruijin."
Qingcheng looked up and stared directly at Zhang Chong: "Mr. Zhang, you flatter me. A reporter's task is to record the news, not to become part of the news. Saving lives is a good thing, but it is not a priority for a journalist."
“Alright, I’ve finished explaining my ideas. It’s your turn, Editor He.” Zhang Chong brought the topic back.
Qingcheng laughed and said, "Compared to the foreignism you're thinking about, I'd rather call myself a historicist. Actually, as an ordinary citizen, I just find it funny to see your factions fighting each other. Looking at China's five thousand years of history, there have been chaotic times and prosperous times. If we were to compile all the mistakes our ancestors made into a book, it would be as good as the history books of other countries."
Understanding the underlying meaning, Zhang Chong nodded slightly, a rare smile playing on his lips: "Well said. How can the history of foreigners compare to ours?"
“Partisan attacks have existed since ancient times, and they are responsible for 80% of the decline of the country. It’s a pity that later generations lament it but do not learn from it. Nowadays, the government appoints people without considering party affiliation or talent, only whether they are relatives or members of a faction. If my father saw this, he would be furious again, heartbroken that his money has gone down the drain,” Qingcheng sighed.
"Hmm? May I ask who your father is?" Zhang Chong asked in surprise.
“He was just an ordinary citizen who did some small business before he died. However, my uncle-in-law, Song Dunyu, was a veteran of the Nationalist government and my brother-in-law. So my father supported his revolutionary work, helped support his family, and also helped the army.” Qingcheng said calmly.
“Your uncle is Mr. Yuzhai! So his wife is your aunt, and your father is his brother-in-law.” A complex look flashed in Zhang Chong’s eyes. “If Mr. Yuzhai and Mr. Zhongkai hadn’t been assassinated one after the other, the revolution wouldn’t have come to this.”
“From a historical perspective, a particular person may be a turning point in an event, but not the outcome. The final result is always chosen by the people, and the people’s choice will reach a consensus at an appropriate time. Anyone who tries to stop it will be crushed by the overwhelming public opinion.” Qingcheng’s smile held a hint of amusement. “Mr. Zhang, we are all part of history!”
Zhang Chong nodded: "Editor He is very knowledgeable. I have benefited greatly from our conversation today."
“Mr. Zhang, you have a broad vision, so why are you so fixated on the policy of ‘pacifying the country before resisting foreign aggression’? Looking at our glorious five-thousand-year history, is there really no better way?” Qingcheng asked earnestly.
"Perhaps there is. If there is even the slightest chance to turn the tide, I will do my best. As for personal gains and losses, that is not my concern, but I haven't seen any yet." Zhang Chong sighed helplessly.
“Then I recommend you read the History of Ming again, especially the section on the end of the Ming Dynasty, which may offer new insights.” Qingcheng said, extending her hand. “No matter what the future holds, one day we will witness a new history together.”
Zhang Chong solemnly shook hands: "I look forward to that day. I also believe that as long as each of us upholds our ideals and responsibilities, our country will have a brighter future. I hope that when we meet next time, we can talk about the History of Ming."
“There will be opportunities. If you have nothing else, I'll take my leave.” Kiyosumi glanced at her watch, picked up her bag, and stood up.
"Wait a moment." Zhang Chong also stood up and waved for his subordinates to come in. "I'll have someone take you back to the Shenbao building. The overnight parking fee is enough to buy several cakes. Also, I just took up a lot of your time, so please make sure to pick out a cake to take back as my apology."
"Big ones are fine too?" Kiyosumi's eyes darted around.
“Either way, it’s on me.” Zhang Chong nodded affirmatively.
"Waiter, please bring me a six-inch chestnut cake and two small tarts. Mr. Zhang shouldn't mind if I bring a couple more small items," Qingcheng said with a smile.
Zhang Chong lowered his head and smiled faintly: "I don't mind."
"Mr. Zhang is very generous." Qingcheng gave a thumbs up in praise. "I won't take his things for nothing. These two movie tickets are for the premiere of Xu Xixin's movie 'Chinese Detective.' Tickets are already hard to come by. If you don't want to see it, you can sell them to scalpers."
“No, no, I really enjoy watching movies.” A hint of surprise flashed across Zhang Chong’s face, which was then replaced by a warm smile. “To be honest, I’m a little embarrassed, but could you give me another ticket? I mean, I’d like to buy another one. If you can get another ticket, I don’t mind paying a little extra.”
"Oh? This is an action comedy, and it's a sound movie so you don't need to read subtitles, so it's definitely family-friendly. Here, I'll give you mine. I was on set during filming, so let's leave the premiere for the general public." While observing the man's reaction, Kiyosumi generously pulled out another movie ticket from her bag.
Zhang Chong excitedly accepted the movie ticket without arguing, saying, "Thank you."
As the streetlights gradually came on, their warm yellow light illuminated the familiar stairwell. Qingcheng pushed open the door, and the aroma of food wafted out, mingled with a faint smell of cooking oil. She had come home just in time.
"You're back. Wash your hands first." Gao Junxiao's voice came from the kitchen. He was humming an unknown tune and seemed to be in a good mood.
Hehe, the water buffalo hummed a song, "Let's tease him." Qingcheng carried the cake box and walked into the kitchen. She coughed lightly, which caught his attention. Gao Junxiao turned his head and glanced at the cake. His smile froze on his face, and he looked confused, as if he was quickly searching his mind for any important dates he might have missed.
"I knew you'd forgotten." Kiyosumi glanced at him sideways and placed the cake by the sink.
Scratching his face, Gao Junxiao forced an awkward laugh: "Could you give me a hint? I really have no clue what it is today?"
"It's not important, I'll tell you after we finish eating." Kiyosumi sighed deliberately.
Upon hearing this, Gao Junxiao frowned even more: "No, no, let's talk this out. Don't hold your breath, it'll make you sick."
Seeing his anxious and helpless look, Kiyosumi finally couldn't help but laugh out loud: "It's just... a special anniversary with you. As long as you're by my side, every day is a celebration."
People can laugh when they're speechless. Gao Junxiao glanced at her knowingly and said, "You're just craving cake, aren't you? You can't eat it now. You can only eat it after you finish your main meal."
"Oh." Kiyosumi agreed verbally, but playfully moved the cake a little further out.
"Don't try anything funny, I'm not blind." Gao Junxiao slapped Qingcheng's hand away.
"Ugh, what's that burnt smell?" Qingcheng sniffed the air and made a face at Gao Junxiao.
"The fire was turned off a long time ago." Gao Junxiao retorted confidently, hands on his hips. "It's not like I'm not going to let you eat, what's the rush? Shouldn't you try the exquisite dish your husband has carefully prepared for you first!"
"Okay, okay, bring it up quickly, let me taste it." Qingcheng pretended to be aggrieved. "But I have to make it clear first, if it's not good, I'll punish you by making you think of new dishes every day."
"Yes, ma'am." Gao Junxiao glared at her irritably and muttered under his breath, "Tch, I have to beg you to eat this, what's wrong with me?"
The aroma of the food quickly filled the living room. After the two finished their meal, Gao Junxiao went to the kitchen to cook some more. A little while later, he brought a slice of cake to Qingcheng: "Eat up, you greedy girl. Don't buy big ones next time, they'll spoil easily if you can't finish them. You need to spend your money wisely."
"I didn't buy it, someone gave it to me as a gift." Qingcheng took a paper bag from the coffee table. "Here, it's for you. I knew you liked it."
Gao Junxiao happily took the bag: "Oh, there's one for me too? Who's so generous as to send you a whole cake and some pastries?"
"Zhang Chong." Qingcheng replied.
"Is it the Zhang Chong I know?" Gao Junxiao's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Who else could it be?" Kiyosumi put a piece of cake in her mouth, but the next second, the plate on which the cake was placed was dragged away by the man.
"Do you think it's appropriate to eat food given by other men in front of me?" Gao Junxiao looked like he was waiting for her to confess.
Kiyosumi put down her cutlery, raised an eyebrow, and said, "What if I say it's appropriate?"
"Then I'll go." Gao Junxiao tossed his apron aside, making a move to leave.
Qingcheng quickly put her arm around his shoulder to comfort him: "Are you silly? This is your home, where are you going?"
"Go upstairs and sleep in your sweet, soft little bed." Gao Junxiao crossed his arms.
Amused by his words, Qingcheng gently pinched the man's stiff cheek: "No way, I can only sleep in a soft, fragrant little bed for two more months. For the rest of my life, I'll have to sleep in a two-meter-wide bed. I won't even be able to fall off when I turn over."
"Then you need a reasonable explanation. Is it because of the last telegram incident that he's been targeting you?" Gao Junxiao asked urgently.
Kiyosumi nodded seriously: "Yes, it's somewhat related, because he'll need my help soon and needs to figure out my temperament first."
"What do you mean? He needs something from you?" Gao Junxiao could hardly believe his ears.
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