〈Fireflies, Fly On:The Nanzhuang Ri A-Guai Anti-Japanese Uprising〉6
by Chen Ching-Yang

Chapter 15: Lovers United in Marriage

After the direct confrontation with the Mitsui Company and the government, Shinobu’s reputation in the Nanzhuang region was at its peak.

To make Lianxing Workstation more competitive, Shinobu proposed to Ri Akai to merge the Workstation with Lianxing Village, jointly establishing the Lianxing Corporation. Ri Akai gladly agreed and summoned all the local heads to announce the plan. Ri Akai decided to step into the background, leaving his youngest son, Chōki, known for his commercial acumen, as Chairman of Lianxing Corporation, with Shinobu as General Manager, and the local heads automatically serving as Executive Directors.

Meilan had originally worried that her father, Ri Akai, might oppose her relationship with Shinobu. Now, that concern seemed unnecessary. Instead, knowing Shinobu’s prominent family background, she found herself hesitating over the relationship.

Meilan’s affection for Shinobu stemmed from his sincerity and integrity. His wealthy and distinguished background had been completely unexpected. She worried that if she agreed to his proposal, she would have to live in Japan after marriage, separated from her parents and elder brother.

Since the founding of Lianxing Workstation, Chōki and Meilan had accompanied Shinobu daily in his busy work. Meilan managed not only their meals and clothing but also served as a Chinese secretary. As the saying goes, “Close to the water, one enjoys the vantage.” Amid their busy work, Shinobu and Meilan’s feelings steadily deepened.

Shinobu admired Meilan not only for her gentle and sweet appearance but also for her thoughtful, independent mind.

One evening, Shinobu arranged for a bouquet of Cymbidium orchids. After the staff had left the Workstation, he presented the flowers to Meilan and formally proposed. Meilan was not surprised but felt hesitant about this cross-cultural marriage.

“Meilan, I love you. Please be my wife,” Shinobu said sincerely, blushing as he spoke.

“Shinobu, I’ll accept this bouquet, but let me think carefully before I answer about the marriage, okay?” Meilan said shyly, lowering her head.

“You’re worried that after marrying me, you’ll have to go back to Japan, aren’t you?” Shinobu, perceptive as ever, immediately guessed her concern.

“Yes. Shinobu, besides being far from my parents and brother, I also worry about our different upbringing. I don’t know if I can fully integrate into your family or be accepted by them,” Meilan admitted.

“You don’t need to worry. My mother is from Qing China, and my parents had an intercultural marriage, so my family is quite open-minded. For now, I don’t plan to return to the mainland quickly. Even later, if you miss your family, I can accompany you to Taiwan anytime. If your parents are willing, they could even stay with us in Tokyo,” Shinobu patiently explained, hoping to dispel her doubts.

Meilan looked up and gazed at him tenderly. “Shinobu, are you sincere in all this?”

Shinobu smiled. “Since when have I ever gone back on my word, Meilan?”

Meilan smiled sweetly. “Alright, I’ll agree. But first, you must ask my elder brother to speak on your behalf.”

Shinobu understood immediately. “I see. Your bond with Chōki is the closest, and I can tell he carries the most weight with your father.”

Shinobu approached Chōki to act as intermediary. As soon as Chōki heard him, he laughed: “It must have been my sister who sent you to me. I’ve been waiting to celebrate your wedding with the two of you, Shinobu-kun.”

Shinobu smiled happily. “So you already knew?”

“Ever since I saw you with my sister, you looked like a lovesick fool. I knew you had fallen for her. Few boys who meet my sister don’t lose their hearts, and you’re no exception!” Chōki teased.

“I leave this matter in your hands, Chōki,” Shinobu said, bowing respectfully.

Chōki smiled and hinted, “No problem. But there’s the intermediary’s gift…”

Shinobu nodded. “Of course, that’s not to be forgotten. After all, you’ll be my brother-in-law soon; how could family be stingy?”

Chōki thumped his chest. “All right, I’ll handle it. Today, you can write back to Tokyo and ask your parents to formally propose.”

Shinobu’s parents, along with his younger sister and the family steward, traveled from Tokyo by ship to formally propose to Ri Akai and his wife on behalf of their eldest son. Saku Taro, a renowned Mitsubishi Group president, held high status, so Mitsui Taipei Branch President Fujii Daisuke personally accompanied the delegation.

Saku Taro’s party traveled lightly, arriving in Nanzhuang by ox cart.

“Honorable Chief, my son Shinobu has been well cared for by you. To have the honor of promising your precious daughter Meilan to him is truly delightful,” Saku Taro said, beaming.

Ri Akai replied modestly, “Mr. Saku, you are too polite. Shinobu is an excellent young man. Having such a worthy son-in-law is our blessing.”

“Mother-in-law, during this period, Shinobu received your careful attention. We are most grateful,” said Shinobu’s mother, Zhang Jialing, to Ri Akai’s wife, Zhan Qinglian.

“It’s nothing. After marriage, Shinobu will be my son-in-law. Of course, a mother-in-law should care for him well,” Zhan Qinglian replied warmly.

“Mitsui’s President Fujii Daisuke praised Saku Taro’s remarkable talents. With your son succeeding the family business, he will surely further the Mitsubishi Group’s achievements. Now, with this excellent match, I must congratulate you!” Fujii added politely.

Taro replied humbly, “President Fujii, you flatter us. My son is young and inexperienced. Please forgive any shortcomings and guide him in the future.”

“Not at all! Your son is exceptionally capable, broad-minded, and acts with integrity, showing the qualities of a true businessman. Now, united with Meilan, it is indeed a perfect match,” Fujii complimented, and Taro nodded appreciatively.

Fujii continued, “Since you, President, have come all the way to Taiwan, after the meeting, I will arrange for local officials to pay their respects.”

Taro waved him off. “No need, President Fujii. I traveled lightly to avoid disturbing local authorities.”

Ri Akai kindly asked, “Mr. Saku, have you decided on a wedding date?”

“I’m here to formally propose. As for the wedding date, it is entirely up to the bride’s family, and the groom’s side will comply,” Taro replied respectfully.

Ri Akai stroked his beard. “Mr. Saku is truly open-minded. Once the date is set, I will have my youngest son telegraph your family to attend and personally preside.”

Meanwhile, Shinobu’s younger sister, Rie, clung to him and Meilan.

In Japanese, she said, “Brother, Sister-in-law is so pretty. You have great taste!”

Shinobu told Meilan, “My sister says you’re beautiful.”

Meilan smiled charmingly and replied in Japanese, “Thank you.”

Rie switched to Chinese: “Sister-in-law, your dress is so pretty!”

Meilan smiled: “Do you like it?”

“Both the color and style are lovely. I really like it!”

“I’ll weave a set for you,” Meilan offered.

Rie giggled innocently, “Thank you, Sister-in-law!”

That evening, Shinobu spent time with his family in the room while Meilan and her maid served tea and snacks. Meilan was courteously seated by Zhang Jialing on a wicker chair.

Holding her hands, Zhang Jialing said in Chinese: “Meilan, let me take a good look at you.” Then to everyone, she said, “Shinobu has a good eye. I used to worry he focused only on work and neglected girls around him, wasting his chance at love. Now, my worries were unnecessary.”

Fujii Daisuke smiled: “Madam, your concern was needless. When Shinobu worked with me, he was charming to women. Even when transferred to Zhunan, his charm remained. All the girls there were smitten. You can ask Miss Riko, his former secretary.”

Zhang Jialing asked, “Oh? Miss Riko, was my son really so popular?”

Riko shook her head, smiling: “Madam, he isn’t a playboy. He is graceful and refined. Even I secretly admired him!” Her face turned red.

Zhang Jialing laughed: “Like father, like son. Taro, your son really resembles you at that age!”

Taro waved and laughed: “Good! I loved earnestly but not indiscriminately.”

Zhang Jialing teased: “I didn’t say anything, don’t confess on your own!”

Taro raised his hand in mock oath: “Heaven and earth witness, I have hidden nothing from you.”

Everyone laughed at the playful exchange between the couple.

Fujii said happily: “President, Madam, with your son’s marriage settled, you can look forward to grandchildren.”

Taro laughed: “Indeed. Let’s have President Fujii act as witness at our youngest child’s wedding.”

Fujii smiled: “It is my great honor to be given this role!”

Taro sighed: “Shinobu is straightforward. Last time, thanks to old classmate Ogawa not pursuing the matter and your careful protection, I’ve wanted to repay the favor.”

Fujii waved awkwardly: “No, no. It was my own oversight that allowed Miyamoto and Ohashi to act arbitrarily. We were at fault, so there is no need for repayment.”

Shinobu said respectfully: “Uncle Fujii, I acted in youthful indignation without knowing better. I am grateful for your understanding.” Bowing deeply, he rose, and Fujii helped him to his feet.

Taro looked at his son kindly: “Shinobu, with Uncle Fujii’s support, this courtesy is deserved.”

Shinobu nodded: “Yes, Father.”

Fujii smiled: “Shinobu is thoughtful and considerate—it warms the heart.”

Shinobu proposed: “Uncle Fujii, I’d like to discuss Lianxing Corporation’s products—timber, camphor, and leather. Shipping to Hsinchu State for wholesale is costly. If you agree, we’d like Mitsui’s Zhunan branch to act as our sole agent for sales.”

Fujii smiled: “No problem. Previously, the Zhunan branch handled Workstation sales. Does the Chief agree to renewed cooperation?”

Shinobu said: “According to my father’s telegram, Uncle Fujii will accompany us. I have already obtained authorization from my future father-in-law and Chōki’s consent, so I will negotiate on behalf of Lianxing.”

Fujii approved: “Then it’s settled. Shinobu works methodically. I will instruct the Zhunan branch to prepare for the contract and begin preparations before I return.”

Taro praised: “President Fujii’s decisiveness is why he is so trusted by old classmate Ogawa.”

Fujii smiled: “No, I’m actually the most relaxed employee. I seldom worry.”

Taro nodded: “That’s good—full delegation and layered control. Shinobu, take note of this.”

Shinobu respectfully replied: “Yes, Father.”

Fujii said: “Ha! Ha! Education by opportunity—this is why the Sakuma family’s achievements are no accident.”

Taro smiled: “You flatter us, President.”

Zhang Jialing interjected: “Men always talk business in the first three sentences together.”

Fujii removed his hat politely: “Madam is right. Tonight, the mother-in-law should speak with her daughter-in-law. Riko and I will take our leave and retire to our rooms.”

Taro stood: “President Fujii, I will see you out.”

Fujii bowed: “President, please stay seated.”

Steward Chiba escorted Fujii and Riko out and then withdrew.

Chapter 16: Distinguished Guests Visit the Workplace

Shinobu personally led his parents and family on a tour of all the enterprises at Lianxing Village. Ri Akai mobilized his entire family to accompany them, while Fujii Daichou followed along, creating a rare and grand scene. The entourage moved in a grand procession, with the first stop at the lumberyard and camphor production plant office. The employees formed two lines in the plaza, enthusiastically welcoming the distinguished guests.

Maruo Daisan and Nakamori Koyuki were mingled among the welcoming crowd, waving their hands while whispering to each other. Daisan pointed and said, “Koyuki, look, the people walking between the Grand Chief and Shinobu should be Shinobu’s parents, right?”

Koyuki excitedly replied, “President Sakuma Taro! Our big boss! I’ve seen his photo several times in the mainland newspapers. In person, he seems a bit older than in the photos.”

Daisan said, “Of course, several years have passed. President Sakuma looks wise, calm, yet carries an air of authority.”

Koyuki added, “Oh! Fujii, the president of Mitsui Company, is here too.”

Daisan nodded, “Yes, a kindly elder.”

The employees cheered for the guests. Sakuma Taro shook hands with them individually, maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanor. Shinobu introduced each person, and the employees responded warmly.

Shinobu said, “Maruo Daisan, the head of the lumberyard. His work is quite demanding.”

Taro held Daisan’s hand and looked at him kindly: “You must be Daisan. Shinobu has mentioned you in letters: calm-minded, methodical, strong leadership, and highly competent. He speaks very highly of you—you have a bright future.”

Daisan respectfully replied, “Please, President, continue to guide me.”

Taro kindly asked, “I heard you were a retired artillery lieutenant colonel?”

Daisan answered, “Yes!”

Taro complimented him, “Indeed, a true soldier’s calm and composure.”

Daisan responded energetically, “Yes!”

Taro encouraged, “Work hard! The Mitsubishi Group’s future rests in the hands of your generation.” Daisan was overjoyed, sensing that by working hard alongside Shinobu, he might one day become a key figure in the Mitsubishi Group.

Shinobu introduced, “Haruyama Enkyu, an outstanding graduate of Waseda’s Forestry Department and head of the logging site. We met during university mountain climbing.”

Enkyu bowed, “President, I’ve long admired you.”

Taro replied, “Enkyu, Shinobu told me you are sharp and capable, full of seemingly endless energy.”

Enkyu replied energetically, “Yes! Enkyu enjoys adventurous living.”

Taro smiled, “Indeed! Youth should be lived fully; young people must venture out, train body and mind, and become pillars of society.”

Enkyu said, “Yes, thank you for your encouragement, President.”

Taro patted Enkyu’s shoulder, “Excellent spirit.”

Shinobu introduced, “Nakamori Koyuki, Daisan’s secretary and head female manager at the lumberyard—a lively and charming little skylark.”

Taro recalled, “Koyuki… what a graceful name, just like you. Shinobu once said that in the Takenan branch, you treated him like a younger sister—so thoughtful. I appreciate your care for him.”

Koyuki smiled, “Shinobu treats us all well. When there’s something delicious, he always thinks of me first, so I take care of him in return.”

Taro widened his eyes with a smile, “Oh? At home, Shinobu also dotes on his sister Rie. It seems besides my daughter-in-law, Meilan, you are the closest to him.”

Shinobu introduced, “Suzuki Keiko, the girl with the most literary temperament—writes poems and haiku, sings with a clear and sweet voice.”

Taro smiled, “Shinobu described you in his letters as a white Yoshino cherry—delicate and elegant, only daring to admire from afar.” Keiko lowered her head shyly, her cheeks flushed pink.

The progress of the guest group was slow, as Sakuma Taro greeted Japanese employees individually. Even a few words excited the staff tremendously.

In the office, the guests listened to reports from Enkyu, Daisan, and Chosei in order, with Keiko providing full Japanese-Chinese translation.

First, Haruyama Enkyu reported on logging operations: “In our forest, the low-altitude zone is mainly camphor trees, mixed with some Cinnamomum, birch, and Koelreuteria trees, all small broadleaf species; the mid-altitude zone is mainly Cinnamomum and birch, with a few pine and cedar. Clearly, our area has significant development value.”

Shinobu prompted, “Enkyu, please emphasize the logging operations and reforestation plan.”

Enkyu explained, “Yes, General Manager. Logging starts from the low-altitude areas, divided by contour lines, proceeding section by section upwards. In cleared areas, tree stumps and roots remain; after leveling, reforestation begins to prevent soil erosion. Reforestation uses native species primarily, with single species per section. Additionally, introduced species like Paulownia, poplar, and Ryukyu pine are trial-planted in parts. All seedlings are supplied by our nursery room…”

The guests—Sakuma Taro, Fujii Daichou, and Ri Akai—listened attentively. Only Suzuki Keiko seemed distracted, gazing at Shinobu’s profile, reminiscing about their time together at the Takenan branch…

Shinobu sat at his desk reviewing documents delivered by Keiko, who held a stack of files.

Keiko explained, “Shinobu, these are last month’s reports on processed deer hides and camphor. President Miyamoto asked you to review them; if fine, please sign and send them to the Taipei branch.”

Shinobu praised, “You’ve organized this very thoroughly. Thank you, Keiko.”

Keiko replied, “It’s my duty.”

Shinobu suddenly asked, “Keiko, may I ask a personal question?”

Keiko looked surprised, “A personal question?”

Shinobu asked, “I heard from Koyuki that Manager Ohashi invited you several times on weekends for meals and movies, but you refused. I also heard from colleagues that you don’t have a boyfriend. Ohashi is capable and dependable; I thought he might be a good match?”

Keiko shook her head, “Shinobu, Ohashi isn’t the type I’m interested in.”

Shinobu asked with curiosity, “Oh? Then what type of man do you like? Perhaps I can keep an eye out for you.”

Keiko shyly replied, “I don’t know… finding someone often depends on fate.”

Shinobu nodded, “Indeed, it can’t be rushed.”

Keiko blushed, “Koyuki probably told you, there are several female colleagues who like you. Maybe you should pay more attention to them.”

Shinobu smiled, “Oh? Koyuki only asked me if I had any special impression of a female colleague.”

Keiko said, “Actually, Koyuki likes you herself, she told me.”

Shinobu said, “I sensed that too, but I’ve always thought of Koyuki more like a sister.”

Keiko asked, “Then… do you also see me as a sister?”

Shinobu replied, “Oh no, we’re just good friends who get along well.”

Keiko pressed, “Just good friends? Shinobu?”

At that moment, Manager Ohashi knocked and entered before Shinobu could answer.

Back in the office briefing room:

Daisan reported, “Camphor oil distillation is complex. Our plant prioritizes safety; operating high-temperature distillation machines requires strict adherence to procedures. Since opening, we’ve had no safety incidents.”

Taro applauded, “Excellent, Daisan. Employee safety is more important than profit.”

Daisan smiled, “Thank you, President.” He continued, “International and domestic demand for camphor balls and essential oil is growing rapidly. Our R&D keeps launching camphor-related products—medicated soap, detergents, insecticides—diversifying products to meet customer needs.”

Taro said, “Enkyu, Daisan, I have only one request: learn Chinese quickly so you can fully communicate with local employees.”

Enkyu and Daisan said together, “Yes!”

At noon, the guests enjoyed a stylish “wild cuisine” meal at the office. Meilan, Keiko, and Koyuki worked in the kitchen for half an hour. Many dishes were unfamiliar even to Sakuma Taro.

Taro pointed to a plate of greens, “Son, what is this dish called?”

Shinobu replied, “Locals call it mountain crown daisy. Slightly bitter but sweet afterward; it clears the liver, reduces internal heat, detoxifies, and acts as a diuretic. It’s a wild vegetable available year-round.”

Taro said, “Oh? Medicinal too! Fascinating.” Then he pointed to a clay pot, “What about this chicken soup?”

Shinobu explained, “It’s free-range black-bone chicken stewed with dog-tail grass root. According to Chinese herbal medicine, it’s warming, gentle, opens the spleen, reduces stomach heat, and promotes appetite—a local health food.”

Taro exclaimed, “Free-range black-bone chicken? Dog-tail grass? I’ve never seen this! Son, how do you know so much?”

Shinobu said, “Local people taught me. Meilan taught me about all the local plants and animals.”

Taro asked Ri Akai, “Father-in-law, do you usually eat these wild vegetables?”

Ri Akai smiled, “As the saying goes, ‘eat what the mountains provide.’ Living here in the mountains, most ingredients are locally sourced.”

Taro nodded, laughing, “I envy you!”

Everyone laughed together, and Shinobu warmly invited them to enjoy the feast.

Chapter Seventeen: A Warm Campfire Gathering

Mimura Reiko and Manager Maeda Shōgo knocked and entered the branch director’s office. President Fujii Taishō turned from the window, gestured for them to sit, and three cups of tea had already been placed on the coffee table.

Sumitomo Corporation had long been Mitsui’s rival. Their overt and covert struggles, originating in the mainland, had extended all the way to Taiwan. Both companies were engaged in the processing of agricultural, forestry, fisheries, and livestock products, with highly overlapping business scopes, and for years had regarded each other as bitter adversaries.

After Mitsui’s Zhunan Branch fell into Saku Nobuo’s hands, a major personnel reshuffle followed immediately. As for the Lianxing Workstation, which had declared independence, many of the Japanese staff from Mitsui’s Zhunan Branch continued to maintain private contact with Lianxing’s Japanese employees.

Upon returning from Lianxing Village, President Fujii promptly decided to assign his trusted secretary, Mimura Reiko, to take charge of reorganizing the Zhunan Branch. He instructed her to put aside past grievances and actively repair relations with the Lianxing Workstation. On one hand, Fujii did not want Saku Nobuo to misunderstand him—believing that he had condoned Branch Director Miyamoto’s unscrupulous methods—and thereby form lasting resentment toward the Mitsubishi Group. On the other hand, he was wary of Lianxing defecting to Sumitomo and turning against its former ally.

Fujii asked, “Reiko, do you know why I brought you down from Taipei?”

Reiko shook her head. “President, I do not.”

Fujii said solemnly, “I have assigned you and Maeda to fill the vacancies left by Miyamoto and Ōhashi. You should understand the intention behind this decision.”

Reiko nodded. “Yes, President. You hope to use my relationship with Nobuo to mend the rift between us and the Lianxing Workstation.”

Fujii smiled approvingly. “You grasp it immediately. Very perceptive.”

Encouraged, Reiko said, “Actually, based on my past understanding of Nobuo, such an intense reaction from him this time was entirely foreseeable.”

Fujii asked with interest, “Oh? And why is that?”

Reiko explained calmly, “What Nobuo cannot tolerate most is betrayal by close friends—especially actions that are unscrupulous and faithless. President, do you remember the incident when Section Chief Kadokawa was beaten by Nobuo in the office?”

Fujii nodded. “Yes, I remember.”

Reiko recalled, “Kadokawa altered a contract Nobuo had drafted without his consent. While Nobuo was away on business in Taipei, Kadokawa approached the counterparty, presented the altered contract, falsely claiming it reflected Nobuo’s intentions, and extorted public-relations fees in order to revise the contract terms for the other party’s benefit.”

Fujii said, “The investigation later confirmed that Kadokawa acted alone. Still, Nobuo’s use of violence against a subordinate was improper.”

Reiko replied, “But given that it concerned Nobuo’s personal integrity and reputation, I believe his reaction was understandable.”

Fujii asked, “At the time, you were Nobuo’s secretary?”

“Yes. Before that incident, Nobuo trusted Kadokawa greatly, appreciated his work ethic and ability, and frequently gave him opportunities to prove himself.”

Fujii said, “Which is why I dismissed Kadokawa and reassigned Nobuo to the Zhunan Branch.”

Reiko said, “President, you may not know this, but after Kadokawa was dismissed, Nobuo lent him a substantial sum of money.”

Fujii looked surprised. “Really? I was not aware of that.”

Reiko revealed, “Nobuo later learned that Kadokawa extorted money because his mother was suffering from cancer and urgently needed a large sum for medical expenses. That desperation drove him to act.”

Fujii sighed. “I see. Kadokawa never told me any of this. Had I known, I might not have dismissed him. It seems my decision at the time was not entirely appropriate. But how did you learn that Nobuo lent him the money?”

Reiko said, “Kadokawa told me himself the day before he left Taipei. He also said Nobuo wrote a letter to his father, asking him to take Kadokawa in and arrange work for him within the Mitsubishi Group.”

Fujii exclaimed, “If you hadn’t told me, I would never have known the latter part of this story.”

Reiko added, “Nobuo said he does not resent being reassigned to Zhunan, but he regrets having publicly beaten Kadokawa and causing him humiliation.”

Fujii sighed softly. “Nobuo truly has a kind heart.”

Reiko asked, “President, what would you like me to do?”

Fujii replied, “Reiko, I want you to straighten out the Zhunan Branch and maintain close ties with Nobuo’s Lianxing Workstation. You were there the other night—Nobuo voluntarily proposed that the Zhunan Branch act as agent for Lianxing’s timber, camphor, and leather products. That was a clear gesture of goodwill. From now on, during our cooperation, whenever Lianxing needs assistance, help them as much as possible.”

He then took out his pipe, lit a cigar, inhaled deeply, and said gravely, “I do not want him to misunderstand me, thinking I condoned Miyamoto and Ōhashi’s misconduct. Nor do I want him turning to Sumitomo and attacking his former employer. You and Shōgo must handle this carefully—no more mistakes.”

Reiko said thoughtfully, “I understand. But I have always trusted Nobuo’s character. He values loyalty and sentiment; he would never turn against us.”

Fujii smiled. “I believe that as well. I have confidence in that boy.”

Chapter Eighteen: The Jiali Mountain Coal Mine

Coal deposits were discovered at the foothills of Jiali Mountain in Nanzhuang. Both Mitsui and Sumitomo showed keen interest and sought to enter the mining industry. However, both companies understood that unless they obtained the approval of Nobuo—the guardian deity of Lianxing Village—Lianxing would never agree to open its territory.

Using its Kansai Branch as a base, Sumitomo had long sought to extend its influence into the resource-rich Nanzhuang region, abundant in forests, livestock, and mineral deposits. When Sumitomo learned that the Lianxing Workstation had declared independence from Mitsui and was now incorporated under the Mitsubishi Group, it saw this as a golden opportunity to gain a foothold in Nanzhuang. Consequently, Sumitomo joined forces with Honda Pharmaceuticals and actively lobbied Lianxing Corporation, proposing a joint investment in coal mining.

Ōshima Urasaburō, Director of Sumitomo’s Kansai Branch, personally traveled to Lianxing Village to lobby:

“Honorable Headman, Chairman Chang-gui, President Saku—Taiwan lacks petroleum resources, and coal is virtually its only major energy source. The coal reserves at the foothills of Jiali Mountain within your territory are abundant and of excellent quality. If our two parties cooperate and jointly invest in development, it will surely be mutually beneficial.”

Smoking his pipe, Ri A-guai replied, “This matter has already been discussed within our village. All the heads of the various communities unanimously oppose coal mining. I must respect their decision. Therefore, I can only regretfully decline your proposal.”

Ōshima forced a smile and said, “In business terms, developing the Jiali coal mine holds limitless opportunities and highly attractive profits. How could the Headman sit atop a treasure mountain and remain unmoved? I sincerely urge you to reconsider. We are prepared to offer highly favorable terms of cooperation.”

Chang-gui explained from the side, “To be frank, we have considered this internally. First, external transportation in this region is inconvenient and would require the construction of a dedicated coal-transport railway. However, the mountain road from Luchang through Donghe to Shilihsing is steep and treacherous, making railway construction extremely difficult. Second, such a project would inevitably provoke fierce opposition from village elders, who believe the railway would ‘disrupt feng shui and disturb ancestral spirits,’ and that mining would pollute water sources. For these reasons, we have never intended to touch this hot potato.”

Manager Nishijo Toshio could not help adding persuasively, “The coal-transport railway is a long-term investment. In addition to transporting coal, it could also carry passengers and goods. This would allow forestry and livestock products from Luchang and Donghe to be shipped out conveniently, promoting trade circulation and accelerating regional prosperity.”

Raising his voice, Nobuo emphasized, “The objective conditions for mining coal at Jiali Mountain are not yet mature. Forcing development now would only waste public resources and achieve nothing. Given this reality, we have no intention of discussing the matter further in the near future. Gentlemen, please return.”

Though rebuffed, Sumitomo refused to give up. Instead, it exerted pressure on the prefectural government, demanding implementation of the policy of nationalizing forest and mineral resources and leasing them through public tender. Bureau Director Nakasone, who had once suffered a sharp rebuke from Saku Nobuo, harbored considerable wariness toward this heir of the Mitsubishi Group and thus hesitated over the public tendering of Nanzhuang’s forest and mineral rights.

Ōshima bowed slightly and said, “Director, since nationalization of forest and mineral resources is an upper-level policy, why should Lianxing Village be treated as an exception? That would be difficult to justify.”

Nakasone replied with a troubled expression, “I understand that we must implement policy to avoid criticism. However, Lianxing Village’s properties are currently under the protection of the Mitsubishi Group. Director Sanada previously issued an official instruction to suspend any action on the ‘Revocation of Lianxing Village Land Development Permit,’ precisely out of such considerations.”

Ōshima pressed on, “Director Sanada merely stated that no action should be taken for now, not that the matter cannot be reconsidered. Moreover, our interest lies in coal mining rights—an industry in which Lianxing has no intention of engaging.”

Nishijo echoed, “Although Mitsui and Sumitomo have long been rivals, now that Mitsui has withdrawn from Nanzhuang and Mitsubishi’s heir has taken over, we would never interfere with forestry or livestock operations here, nor would Mitsui dare challenge Mitsubishi. However, the leasing of forest and mineral rights cannot remain unresolved. Why not obtain Saku Nobuo’s consent and announce the tender, allowing Lianxing to legally secure forestry rights while enabling us to mine coal?”

Nakasone answered evasively, “Your proposal will be reported to higher authorities as soon as possible, but I cannot make any commitments here. You have never faced Saku Nobuo directly— even I, as bureau director, am no match for him.”

By mid-August, with Saku Nobuo’s “understanding,” the Bureau nevertheless proceeded with the legal announcement. Later that month, the forestry lease rights were publicly tendered and easily won by Lianxing Corporation, with the bid funded by Lianxing Village itself—effectively repurchasing ancestral land through official channels.

The mineral lease became a tug-of-war. Mitsui and Sumitomo each approached Lianxing seeking joint investment in mining, but Lianxing, citing transportation difficulties, railway construction challenges, and inevitable local opposition, refused to commit to either party.

In early September, at the prefectural government’s public tender, Lianxing deliberately drove up the bidding price to discourage both companies. Yet Sumitomo, determined to penetrate Nanzhuang, spared no expense and successfully secured the mining rights, leaving Nobuo, Chang-gui, and Mimura Reiko of Mitsui’s Zhunan Branch stunned.

“President Saku, Branch Head Mimura—thank you for yielding,” Ōshima said with a formal bow, his tone carrying unmistakable provocation.

Nobuo replied coldly, “President Ōshima, Nanzhuang’s rugged terrain and poor transportation require heavy investment in roads, and any coal railway must carefully consider engineering feasibility and the sentiments of local elders.”

Ōshima smiled confidently. “We and Honda have already completed our assessments. Railway construction, storage facilities, and mining equipment investments can be recovered in about twenty years, while official surveys estimate coal reserves sufficient for eighty to a hundred years. No matter how you calculate it, the venture is worthwhile.” Casting a sidelong glance at Reiko, he added proudly, “Since your companies have no interest in mining, please do not obstruct us. Nevertheless, we welcome your participation as investors.”

Nobuo and Chang-gui exchanged uneasy glances. Nobuo sensed that Sumitomo’s entry into Nanzhuang would inevitably trigger local conflict and usher in a future fraught with uncertainty.

Soon after, Sumitomo staff and mining consultants from the mainland flooded into Luchang. Machinery arrived steadily at Jiali’s foothills. The planned coal railway was to run along the left bank of the Zhonggang River through the Donghe Valley, but land acquisition required negotiations with Lianxing Village. Despite generous terms—fair compensation and public use of the railway—Lianxing refused. Only then did Sumitomo realize the gravity of the situation. Yet it dared not resort to governmental coercion, for the hidden shareholder behind Lianxing was none other than the Mitsubishi Group, and officials could only mediate neutrally.

The briefing was held in Ri A-guai’s main hall, packed with villagers. Attendees included Sumitomo representatives, Director Nakasone, Ri A-guai, Chang-gui, Nobuo, and community leaders. Meilan stood behind Nobuo.

Nakasone opened, “On behalf of the authorities, I welcome dialogue regarding the Jiali coal mine, an approved project that will benefit regional prosperity.”

Ōshima followed, expressing hope to acquire railway land at reasonable prices.

Chang-gui reiterated Lianxing’s opposition, citing terrain, agricultural impact, and alternative routes.

Nishijo presented detailed maps, explaining cost considerations.

Nobuo pressed the official stance. Nakasone confirmed neutrality: railway routing was a private matter.

Satisfied, Nobuo concluded, “Since alternative routes exist, we regretfully cannot provide our limited agricultural land.”

After months of negotiations and countless meetings, Sumitomo—despite repeated route revisions—failed to gain approval and ultimately resorted to transporting coal by truck via existing paths, incurring persistently high costs.