182: Chapter 182 The Reason

Pei Tianlin replied modestly, "Clan Leader Xu, you overpraise me. I, Pei Tianlin, am just an ordinary man. It is my good fortune to have married a wife as fine as Yu Wei."

He knew his own worth very well; those grand words didn't apply to him at all.

He was merely an ordinary Elder of the Wuyang Pei Clan.

He didn't have a deep impression of this Xu Clan Leader. He couldn't say he disliked him, nor did he particularly admire him. Their only interaction had been at a Xu Clan wedding banquet.

The Xu Clan Leader's sudden visit and his extreme politeness were unexpected.

In his view, there were only two possible reasons.

Either he wanted something, or he valued Pei Tianlin's status within the Pei Clan.

Hearing this, a hint of admiration appeared in Xu Jianye's eyes. From Pei Tianlin's gaze, he could tell these words were not feigned.

Although the Wuyang Pei Clan was once just a dilapidated, ordinary third-rate family, their status and position were now entirely different.

Instead, it was his Xu Clan that was now the one climbing higher.

Under these circumstances, he saw no trace of arrogance in Pei Tianlin.

Clearly, the Wuyang Pei Clan was by no means a foundationless 'nouveau riche family.'

On the other side, Xu Jianhua and his wife felt exceptionally gratified to hear Pei Tianlin speak this way. These words were undoubtedly a defense of their daughter's status.

Even though Xu Yuwei and Pei Tianlin didn't return to the Xu Clan often, Xu Yuwei still maintained correspondence with Father and Mother Xu.

In her letters, Xu Yuwei stated she was living very well in the Wuyang Pei Clan, but after all, Xu Jianhua and his wife hadn't seen it with their own eyes.

Now, as the Wuyang Pei Clan had transformed into a dragon overnight and returned to visit with so many gifts—and with Pei Tianlin defending Xu Yuwei's Face so strongly before the Xu Clan Leader—it proved the contents of the letters were true.

It was true they valued Face, but it was more important that Xu Yuwei lived a good life.

Otherwise, wouldn't their original support have been a mistake?

Xu Jianye sighed, "Sister-in-law, you truly found a fine son-in-law."

Meanwhile, Xu Weian and Pei Tianlin also began to converse on the side.

Xu Jianye pulled Xu Jianhua and his wife into a conversation, mostly chatting about mundane family matters.

This left Xu Jianhua and his wife somewhat overwhelmed by the favor; when had the Clan Leader ever been so amiable to them?

Before long, both sides finished their exchanges.

Xu Weian and Xu Jianye bid farewell to Xu Jianhua, his wife, and Pei Tianlin's family of three.

Shortly after leaving the small courtyard, Xu Jianye spoke up, "What do you think of this Pei Tianlin?"

"If I had to describe him in eight words: calm and unhurried, with profound inner depth," Xu Weian said with a serious expression.

Xu Jianye said, "An'er, I didn't expect you to hold him in such high regard. It seems this Wuyang Pei Clan is truly full of talent."

"By the way, did you mention to him that our Xu Clan wishes to invest in the Yuanhang Trade Caravan branch?"

Xu Weian said, "I didn't mention it directly; I only subtly discussed topics related to the Yuanhang Trade Caravan with him. However, based on my judgment of Pei Tianlin, he likely sensed something."

Xu Jianye asked thoughtfully, "Oh? What was his reaction then?"

Xu Weian understood his father's thoughts and explained methodically, "I couldn't tell yet. Father, don't be too anxious. Pei Tianlin won't be leaving so soon after this visit; he will stay with our Jinhuai Xu Clan for a while. After I've spent a few days with him, I'll find a private opportunity to discuss this matter."

Xu Jianye explained slowly, "An'er, it's not that I'm anxious, but there are simply too many Great Families eyeing the Yuanhang Trade Caravan's Jinhuai Branch right now. Who among them doesn't want to secure a seat on this great ship? I'm worried that if we're too late, the caravan's slots will be full. By then, even if Pei Tianlin is willing to step in, he might not be able to make it happen."

Xu Weian realized, "I see. I was wondering why you, who are usually so methodical, were so urgent this time. I will find a suitable opportunity to mention this in the next two days. On your end, you could actually chat with Uncle Jianhua. If Uncle Jianhua is willing to speak up, the possibility of success would be even greater."

Xu Jianye replied, "Good."

...

On the other side.

After Xu Jianye and his son left, the lively atmosphere returned to the small courtyard.

"Tianlin, it's all thanks to you that the Clan Leader visited personally. Within a day, news of his visit will likely spread through the Xu Clan estate. Tomorrow, I want to see the looks on their Faces," Mother Xu laughed.

Xu Jianhua said, "What do you know as a woman? Do you really think the Clan Leader is that idle? In my view, he must want something from this visit."

As a member of the Xu Clan's direct lineage, Xu Jianhua understood this well.

Although the Wuyang Pei Clan was currently at its peak, the Xu Clan Leader didn't need to lower himself so much before Pei Tianlin, an Elder of the Pei Clan.

Of course, it would be different facing Pei Qingyun.

During this exchange, he could clearly feel Xu Jianye and Xu Weian's flattery toward Pei Tianlin.

Furthermore, one does not visit the temple without a reason.

The Xu Clan was a Great Family of the Commandery City after all; if the Clan Leader lowered himself so much without some ulterior motive, he wouldn't believe it for a second.

Hearing this, Mother Xu, Qi Yingfang, also withdrew her smile and said with concern, "Tianlin, if the Clan Leader really has something he needs to trouble you with, you don't need to consider my or Jianhua's Face. If you should refuse, then refuse directly."

Mother Xu hadn't grown up in the Xu Clan after all, and after the experience of marrying off her daughter, she didn't have much goodwill toward many of the Xu clansmen.

Xu Jianhua echoed, "Yes, just as your mother-in-law said, there's no need to consider my Face."

Hearing this, Pei Tianlin felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

Since ancient times, it was rare to find parents-in-law who could stand in their son-in-law's shoes and consider his perspective.

Pei Tianlin smiled and said, "I actually have some inkling of the Clan Leader's purpose for this visit. If I'm not mistaken, they've come to invest in our Pei Clan's Yuanhang Trade Caravan Jinhuai Branch."

Xu Jianhua pondered, "I've heard of the Yuanhang Trade Caravan; it's a caravan of your Wuyang Pei Clan. Their business in various counties around the Commandery City is very large. I didn't expect that in the blink of an eye, they would even open a branch in the Commandery City."

"But I don't quite understand what this 'investing' means. Tianlin, please clear up my confusion." At this point, a look of puzzlement appeared on Xu Jianhua's Face.

At the same time, Mother Xu also leaned in curiously to listen.

She really didn't understand this new term.

Pei Tianlin explained with a smile, "Investing is..."

Under Pei Tianlin's explanation, Xu Jianhua and his wife understood immediately.

Xu Jianhua said, "Tianlin, I understand. You mean the Clan Leader wants to invest in the Yuanhang Trade Caravan Jinhuai Branch but has no way in, so he visited personally."

"Exactly. Although I'm not sure where Clan Leader Xu got this news, Xu Weian subtly mentioned the Jinhuai Branch multiple times during our conversation," Pei Tianlin said seriously.

Hearing this, Xu Jianhua and his wife also understood that this was likely the case.

However, this Jinhuai Branch also piqued their curiosity.

For the sake of investing in the Yuanhang Trade Caravan Jinhuai Branch, Xu Jianye had condescended to come here.

The intention of currying favor was self-evident.

A look of curiosity appeared in Xu Jianhua's eyes, "Tianlin, would it be convenient to tell me about the Jinhuai Branch? If it involves secrets, then never mind."

Pei Tianlin said calmly, "It's not really a secret. The Jinhuai Branch has only just begun construction, so I don't know the specific details yet. If you are interested, Father-in-law, I can tell you about the situation of the Yuanhang Trade Caravan in various counties."

Xu Jianhua said with great interest, "Tianlin, tell me."

Mother Xu was also waiting expectantly on the side.

Pei Tianlin adjusted his breathing slightly and began to introduce the development history and business of the Yuanhang Trade Caravan.

From Wuyang City to the six counties of Jinhuai, and now to the Commandery City branch.

Pei Tianlin spoke for nearly an hour in one breath.

Xu Jianhua and his wife listened with rapt attention.

"Grandmaster Qingyun is truly a Divine Being. It's no wonder Clan Leader Jianye wants to invest in the Jinhuai Branch," Xu Jianhua sighed.

"Yes, if not for the Old Ancestor, our Wuyang Pei Clan wouldn't be where it is today," Pei Tianlin agreed.

Afterward, the two chatted a bit more, and before they knew it, the topic turned to various hobbies.

"Father-in-law, don't you like playing chess? It just so happens our Pei Clan has newly invented something called 'Chinese Chess.' If you're interested, I can play a few rounds with you," Pei Tianlin said.

"Chinese Chess? I've never heard of it. Tianlin, tell me, what are the rules?" Xu Jianhua asked.

While speaking, Pei Tianlin took out the pieces and board he had prepared from a wooden box, placing them before Xu Jianhua and setting the pieces in their positions.

"The Horse moves in a ' day' pattern, the Elephant moves in a ' Field' pattern..." Pei Tianlin explained the rules as he moved the pieces.

Xu Jianhua felt an unprecedented sense of novelty from Chinese Chess. Once he understood the rules, he began to play against Pei Tianlin.

Soon, the two began their first round of battle.

Because Xu Jianhua was not yet very familiar with the rules...

Undoubtedly, Pei Tianlin took the first round.

Round after round followed, and Pei Tianlin began a winning streak.

Back at the Pei Clan Estate, when he played Chinese Chess with the Old Ancestor, he was crushed in every game, even being 'shaved clean' more times than he could count.

He had once doubted if he was just too bad at it and had no talent for chess at all.

Playing with his father-in-law, he rediscovered his confidence.

It wasn't that he was too bad, but that the Old Ancestor was too powerful.

But as time passed, Pei Tianlin also felt something was wrong.

Game after game, the two played from noon until evening.

Despite his repeated defeats, Xu Jianhua showed no sign of fatigue; instead, he grew more and more spirited.

In contrast, Pei Tianlin himself was feeling a bit listless.

This made him recall the words the Old Ancestor often said.

A 'noob' who loves to play.

"Father-in-law, it's getting late. After we finish this round, Yu Wei and I will head back to rest," Pei Tianlin said.

Xu Jianhua glanced at the sunset glow outside the window and said with lingering interest, "Time really flies. I must say, the design of this Chinese Chess is truly ingenious, much more fun than our Great Jing Dynasty's Jing Chess. I wonder which nation invented it. Tomorrow, I'll come find you for more Chinese Chess."

Before long, the two finished the last round.

Seeing the eager look in his father-in-law's eyes, Pei Tianlin quickly said, "Then Yu Wei and I will take our leave."

Without waiting for Xu Jianhua's reply, Pei Tianlin's family of three left the small courtyard.

The next day.

Just as dawn broke and Pei Tianlin had finished breakfast, Xu Jianhua came looking for him to play Chinese Chess.

After half a day of battle yesterday, Pei Tianlin discovered that winning constantly was actually more tiring than losing constantly.

No wonder the Old Ancestor never played more than three rounds with him each time.

But his father-in-law had come; what reason did he have to refuse?

"Tianlin, I thought about it all night and have found a way to defeat you," Xu Jianhua said excitedly.

Since his father-in-law had said so, what choice did Pei Tianlin have but to fight another battle?

And so, the two began another day-long tug-of-war.

Compared to yesterday, Xu Jianhua's Chinese Chess skills had improved significantly, but they were still far from enough to defeat him.

Pei Tianlin was, after all, a man who had been trained by the Old Ancestor for over half a year.

He had half a year of experience ahead.

However, by this day, Pei Tianlin was also completely exhausted by the game.

Xu Jianhua's perseverance in chess was second to none.

"Maybe I should go a bit easy on him. If this continues and Father-in-law doesn't win a round, I'll have no way to escape," Pei Tianlin thought to himself as he watched Xu Jianhua's departing figure.

He had originally introduced Chinese Chess to Xu Jianhua just to provide the old man with a little entertainment for his leisure time.

Now it seemed he might have done the wrong thing.

Just as Xu Jianhua wanted to invite him again on the third day, the arrival of Xu Jianye and his son saved Pei Tianlin from his plight.

Everyone, including Xu Jianhua, knew why Xu Jianye and his son had come.

In any case, a day of chess was ruined.

This made Xu Jianhua feel that the Clan Leader's visit wasn't quite so pleasant anymore.

At this moment, Face seemed less important than chess.

But no matter how much his heart itched, he could only sigh in frustration.

Like last time, Xu Jianye sought out Xu Jianhua, while Xu Weian sought out Pei Tianlin.

Unlike last time, however, Xu Weian only chatted for a few moments before getting straight to the point.

Xu Weian said with a serious Face, "Brother Tianlin, to be honest, I've come to ask a favor of you."

Pei Tianlin took a small sip of tea and said calmly, "Brother Weian, you're a straightforward person; if you have something to say, feel free to speak plainly."

Although he had already guessed Xu Weian's intention, the words had to be made clear by the other party.

"It's like this: isn't the Yuanhang Trade Caravan going to establish a Jinhuai Branch in the Commandery City? My Xu Clan intends to invest in the Jinhuai Branch. I wonder if you, Brother Tianlin, could recommend our Xu Clan to Grandmaster Qingyun?" As he spoke, a hint of expectation shone in Xu Weian's eyes.

"Oh, so it's about that. I'm not very clear on the matters of the Jinhuai Branch; that's being handled personally by the Old Ancestor. If your Xu Clan wants to invest in the Jinhuai Branch, it might be a bit difficult to manage," Pei Tianlin said, feigning a look of sudden realization.

"Brother Tianlin, if there are any difficulties, you can bring them up. If there are places that need 'greasing,' my Xu Clan will definitely not be stingy," Xu Weian said sincerely.

Xu Weian's words were undoubtedly full of sincerity. As long as Pei Tianlin needed silver, the Xu Clan was willing to provide it, regardless of the reason.

Undoubtedly, this was an attempt at bribery.

Pei Tianlin understood the meaning behind the words, but he naturally wouldn't recommend the Xu Clan for investment just for the sake of a bribe.

"Brother Weian, I cannot agree to this for the time being."