The Journey Ahead

In the front courtyard of the Yanlu Merchant Association, after Xu Shaonian had handled everything properly, Jiang Yan offered a suggestion at just the right moment:

"You can learn from me and find some people you trust to help you with your work. That way, you won't have to personally attend to everything."

The main issue was that when one person managed so many matters, there was no efficiency.

Xu Shaonian's face turned thoughtful at his words.

Then he let out a bitter laugh:

"Most of the people in our merchant association were chosen from among the refugees before. I trust all of them; it's just that their foundations are too weak, and their abilities still need training. It wouldn't be appropriate to give them very high positions right now.

"As for outsiders, to be honest, our foundation isn't solid enough yet. If we rashly bring in a few formidable people, I'm afraid we'll get cheated."

Jiang Yan nodded slightly to show that he understood, but still insisted:

"You can look slowly. Find people you understand and trust."

Xu Shaonian pursed his lips, thought seriously for a moment, then shook his head again, indicating that he had no such people available.

He wasn't originally from Nanyan City. His roots lay in Ninglu Prefecture, making him a genuine outsider, and his current circle of acquaintances was not large.

"Perhaps I can recommend some people."

At that moment, Zhao Yuanba broke the silence and spoke up.

But Jiang Yan, Xu Shaonian, and Miao Xiao Hong all ignored him. That fellow's "friends" were mostly people he had met in brothels and pleasure houses. They were drinking-and-gambling companions, and their abilities were hardly worth expecting anything from.

"You..." Zhao Yuanba grew irritated when he saw that none of them responded.

"Senior Brother, actually, we