Chen Gan

Biodata

Background / History

Chen Gan is an experienced Assistant Servant in the Changping County Fast Squad 1. He has served in the yamen for over a decade, establishing deep local influence and a reputation for being ruthless and resourceful 1 11. He acts as a mentor to his nephew, Su Mo, guiding him through the complex and often corrupt power dynamics of the yamen 1 21. Chen Gan maintains extensive connections with the local underworld, including private salt smugglers like Chen Bao, to secure his family's standing and financial stability 9.

Personality

Chen Gan is described as cunning, manipulative, and pragmatic 6. He is deeply obsessed with the prospect of becoming an official, viewing it as the only way to secure his family's future 10. While he can be harsh and demanding toward his nephew, his actions are driven by a fierce desire to protect his family and maintain their reputation 8. He is well-versed in the "unspoken rules" of the yamen, often advising Su Mo to prioritize survival and strategic maneuvering over rigid adherence to morality 6 7.

Abilities & Skills

Yamen Politics

Chen Gan possesses a profound understanding of the bureaucratic hierarchy and the importance of social connections 6.

• Networking: Maintains relationships with both yamen officials and underworld figures to ensure his family's safety 9.
• Legal Manipulation: Skilled at navigating yamen procedures, including suppressing cases and using legal loopholes to his advantage 6 16.
• Mentorship: Provides strategic guidance to Su Mo, teaching him how to handle corrupt officials and manage public perception 7 21.

Relationships

• Su Mo — Nephew and protégé; Chen Gan provides guidance, protection, and harsh lessons on survival 1 6 21.
• Madam Qian — Wife; a virtuous woman who is on good terms with neighbors 9.
• Chen Yiyao — Daughter 9.
• Chen Bao — Relative and private salt smuggler; a key ally in Chen Gan's network 9.
• Ma Yingshi (Big Wart Ma) — Magistrate's Clerk; a political rival whom Chen Gan actively opposes 8 11.

Trivia

• Chen Gan is known for his distinct appearance, characterized by triangular eyes and mouse-like whiskers 1.
• He is a heavy smoker, frequently seen with a copper pipe 10 34.
• He is deeply cynical about the fairness of the yamen, famously stating that the yamen does not need evidence to arrest someone, only the "three planks" of torture 6.