Ragpicker Hou Comes Calling

Outside the residence at Desheng Gate, Wang Yan parked the motorcycle by the entrance and helped Old Guan out of the sidecar.

The moment Old Guan got his feet on the ground, he let out a long breath. "That ride nearly shook this old man to death. You little bastard, it's not like you're short on money or people. Why not just get yourself a big-ass Jeep? This lousy motorcycle keeps out neither wind nor rain, and it'll probably get you killed early too."

"Keeping a low profile. Can't be too flashy. Actually, even if I didn't buy a vehicle, my position entitled me to an official car—I just didn't take one. Once the streets are full of cars, I'll start driving one too."

It actually had not been that bumpy. The sidecar seat had been modified and was as comfortable as a sofa. Old Guan was simply getting on in years; hard seats did not work for him, and neither did soft ones. The roads were not particularly good either, with potholes here and there. Old Guan had been swaying around in the seat and just was not used to it.

Just then, the tightly shut gate opened, and a burly man came out. "Prince!"

"Nothing important. I brought some people over to look at a few things. Go do whatever you need to do." Wang Yan waved the subordinate away, then held out a hand toward Old Guan. "After you, Lord Commander."

Old Guan chuckled. Supported by Han Chunming, he was the first to step over the threshold and enter. Wang Yan lit a Huazi cigarette and strolled in behind them. "Other than the little room by the entrance and one room in the rear courtyard where people live, every room is packed with things. The two of