〈Romance of An-ping: Miss
Jin’s Interethnic Love Story〉11

Chapter Ten: Junsheng Detained by the Madou Community

46
Junsheng and his group had just arrived at the entrance of the Madou community, and the scene before them immediately brought a sense of oppression. Sunlight filtered through the dense leaves, and a gentle breeze stirred the treetops, carrying the scent of earth, but this natural tranquility did not provide any relief for the confrontation that was about to occur. The air at the community entrance was filled with a heavy atmosphere. Several burly community guards stood ahead, expressionless, blocking the way.

At that moment, Walu hurried over with a group of community guards, walking to stand before Junsheng and the two others. His gaze was sharp, and his tone cold: “The headman has ordered that the foreigner must be kept within the community, to await instructions.”

Ali’s face instantly turned ashen. He placed his hands on his hips, the anger on his face unmistakable. Pointing at Walu, he loudly retorted: “Walu, is this how you treat guests?”

Walu shrugged and cupped his hands in response: “Ali, please forgive me. You and Princess Shayun may leave, but this foreign doctor must remain.” His tone was polite, yet a hint of impatience flashed in his eyes.

Ali grew even angrier upon hearing this. Clenching his fists, his face full of defiance, he raised his voice: “We came here to provide medical services on tour. What you are doing completely disregards our Chikan community!”

Walu calmly lowered his head in apology, spreading his hands as if to ease the tension: “Do not be angry yet, Ali. We are only keeping the doctor here temporarily as a guest. We will not make things difficult for him.”

Ali’s face turned ashen with rage. Pointing at the tip of Walu’s nose, he spoke with sarcasm: “Hmph! ‘Temporarily keeping as a guest’? Spoken nicely, but it’s nothing more than putting the doctor under house arrest! If you really want to play tricks like this, our Chikan community will not let your Madou community get away with it. Just wait and see!”

Walu listened and smiled bitterly, waving his hand, clearly unconcerned with Ali’s threats: “It’s useless to make threats, Ali. I am also just following orders; I have no other choice.”

At this moment, Junsheng remained silent for a moment. His gaze swept over the surrounding guards, understanding in his heart that if the confrontation continued, the situation would only get worse. He spoke calmly, his tone carrying a hint of counsel: “Ali, calm down. Since our purpose is to provide medical services, I trust that Madou community will not act irrationally. I will stay behind; you take Shayun back to Chikan and wait for my news.”

Shayun, standing to the side, upon hearing Junsheng’s words, momentarily dimmed her eyes, then quickly lifted her head and looked at Junsheng firmly, her voice resolute: “Junsheng, husband and wife share the same fate. If you decide to stay, I will not leave.”

Junsheng helplessly waved his hand and stepped closer to her. He gently grasped her wrist and said in a low voice: “Listen to me, do not act impulsively at this time, Shayun.” A trace of unease showed in his eyes, but his tone remained gentle.

Shayun’s gaze was as steadfast as fire, without a trace of hesitation: “No need to persuade me, Junsheng. My mind is made up.” She gently pulled her hand from Junsheng’s and took a step forward, standing beside him without retreat.

Ali’s gaze shifted between the two of them. Finally, he let out a deep sigh and firmly patted Junsheng’s shoulder: “Fine, Junsheng. I’ll return to Chikan to report. The headman will arrive soon.” He turned and briskly walked toward the nearby ox cart, pointing his finger at Walu’s chest with a threatening tone: “Walu, hear me clearly. If anything happens to Junsheng and his wife in your community, I, Ali, will hold you responsible. Chikan community will make sure you pay the price.”

Walu glanced at him, patted his chest, and smiled slightly, appearing unconcerned: “You may rest assured. The doctor and Princess Shayun will be treated as honored guests. I will ask Headman Maya to arrange accommodations so they can continue seeing patients. Only their freedom of movement will be temporarily restricted.”

Junsheng gently shook his head, easing the tension: “Ali, since Walu has shown sincerity, Shayun and I will be fine. You may return first.”

Hearing this, Ali nodded, quickened his pace slightly, glanced back at Junsheng and Shayun repeatedly, and finally drove the ox cart away. His gaze remained uneasy, frequently looking back until the cart gradually disappeared from view.

Walu then turned and saluted Junsheng and his wife: “Doctor, Princess Shayun, please follow me.” His voice regained its calm, though a faint warning lingered in his eyes.

Junsheng and his wife were escorted by Walu and the community guards toward the interior. The scene at the entrance became quieter, yet all the tension seemed to permeate the land, each step seeming to announce that this turmoil was only just beginning.

47
Accompanied by Walu, Junsheng and his group arrived at the residence of Madou community Headman Maya. The residence was hidden in a small clearing within a dense forest. Ancient trees towered around it, branches interweaving and blocking most of the sunlight. The exterior of the residence was simple and elegant. In the lush garden, a few blooming flowers swayed in the breeze, seemingly welcoming the guests.

Walu reached the door and pushed open the heavy wooden gate. The gate emitted a dull, low sound, echoing through the quiet air. Walu politely gestured for Junsheng and Shayun to enter, then proceeded to the main hall to report to Maya.

Entering Maya’s reception room, Walu said in a low voice: “Princess Shayun of Chikan community and her doctor husband have come together. I have brought them to see you.” His tone was respectful, yet slightly urgent.

Maya’s gaze first swept over Walu, then fell on Junsheng and Shayun at the door. Her brows slightly furrowed as she softly asked: “Walu, you did not treat Shayun disrespectfully, did you?”

Walu immediately bowed, speaking sincerely: “How could Walu dare! Everything was done according to the headman’s instructions.”

Maya nodded, a faint smile appearing on her face: “I’ll change my clothes. You bring them up afterwards.”

“Yes, Headman.” Walu said, then turned and went downstairs, disappearing around the corner of the staircase.

After a while, Maya had changed her clothes. She wore a simple yet dignified outfit, her hair lightly pinned up, and stepped out of the reception room to greet the guests. Sunlight poured through the windows onto the polished floor, elongating her figure. Her steps were light, carrying a subtle air of authority and warmth.

Maya walked briskly toward Junsheng and his wife, extending her hands, and said warmly: “Doctor and Princess Shayun, you have come from afar. On behalf of Madou community, I express sincere welcome.” She smiled and embraced Shayun, her movements gentle and polite.

Shayun returned the warm smile and lightly embraced Maya, her voice filled with gratitude: “Thank you, Headman. You are far too kind.”

After separating from Shayun, Maya’s gaze softened. She asked kindly: “Shayun, how has elder sister Dabongya been recently?”

A trace of tenderness flashed in Shayun’s eyes. She softly replied: “Sena is doing well. Thank you, aunt, for asking.” Her tone was full of warmth, as if their bond over the years had been like that of sisters.

Maya turned her head to look at Walu beside her. Walu slightly leaned in and whispered a few words to her. After listening, Maya’s gaze softened, and she turned toward Junsheng and his wife, speaking again: “You know, I have been close friends with Sena for decades. We often correspond. Doctor, I apologize. I heard you came to practice medicine, but due to certain circumstances, you two will have to endure a temporary inconvenience and stay in our community for a while.” Her tone conveyed regret, clearly uneasy about the sudden arrangement.

Shayun smiled slightly, her tone gentle: “Yes! Perhaps it is not the right time?”

Maya was unbothered, smiling lightly instead: “Not at all! Shayun, you and your husband will first stay at our community’s meeting hall. The space is ample, allowing you to continue treating patients and providing medical services to the community members. Are you both satisfied with this arrangement?”

Upon hearing this, Junsheng immediately bowed respectfully, speaking courteously: “Thank you, Headman, for going to such trouble on our behalf.”

Maya nodded lightly, smiling in response: “You are welcome. It is only right.” Then, she turned to Walu and instructed: “Walu, after taking them to the meeting hall, go to the weaving building to bring back Princess Yimin. Have her accompany Shayun and the doctor, so she can learn some medical knowledge.”

Walu nodded: “Understood, Headman.” Without further words, he turned quickly to carry out the task.

Maya continued explaining to Shayun: “Shayun, as you know, Yimin is a few years younger than you. She has been lively and active since childhood, unlike you, disliking sewing and cooking. I persuaded her to learn weaving. I thought, since you and your husband have come, let Yimin follow you to learn.” Her tone was relaxed, as if recounting a familiar domestic matter.

Shayun smiled gently, her expression sincere: “Aunt, if little sister Yimin is interested in medicine, we would be happy to teach her.” Her tone carried warm encouragement.

Upon hearing this, Maya’s face showed a pleased smile, nodding lightly: “That is wonderful! I thank you both in advance.” She slightly bowed, hands clasped together, her tone full of gratitude.

Within this simple, ancient residence, the atmosphere instantly softened. The conversation between the two noblewomen and Junsheng and his wife seemed to fill the quiet residence with warmth. At this moment, the surrounding tree shadows, sunlight, and gentle breeze all appeared to quietly watch over them, making this meeting more profound and memorable.

48
Inside the Madou Society assembly hall, the air was permeated with the scent of herbs and ancient trees, surrounded on all sides by dense vines. Sunlight outside filtered through the treetops and dappled onto the wooden floor, forming a layer of soft light. The furnishings within the assembly hall were simple yet elegant. On the long table, various herbs and medical bottles were neatly arranged. A few old oil lamps emitted faint light, casting gentle shadows that added a quiet and warm atmosphere to the place. Shayun and Junsheng were focused on organizing the medicine chest, sorting the various bottles and jars, their fingers lightly brushing over the bottles as if each contained some ancient wisdom.

At that moment, the sound of footsteps came from outside the door. Walu and Princess Yimin entered the assembly hall together. Yimin immediately spotted Shayun, who was busy at work. A flash of delight appeared in her eyes, and she quickly stepped forward, grabbing Shayun’s hands with excitement, her tone filled with the joy of reunion: "Sister Shayun, I’ve missed you so much! It’s been five years since I last went to Chikan."

Shayun smiled faintly, her eyes shimmering with tenderness, and gently rubbed Yimin’s head: "Yimin, you’ve grown taller and have become very beautiful!"

Yimin happily lifted her long hair, smiling brilliantly: "Really? Thank you, Sister!" She tilted her head toward Junsheng standing nearby, curiously asking: "Sister, this foreigner must be your husband, right? He looks very refined."

Shayun turned to Junsheng, her eyes carrying a trace of tenderness, smiling as she said: "His name is Junsheng; he is a doctor, so he is naturally more refined in demeanor." She introduced him to Yimin: "Junsheng, this is Yimin, the daughter of Chief Maya."

Junsheng smiled lightly, stepped forward, and extended his hand to hold Yimin’s, speaking with humility: "Princess Yimin, it is an honor to meet you!" His eyes were gentle, his voice calm.

Yimin returned his handshake wholeheartedly, her face showing a playful smile: "The honor is mine, the honor is mine!" She looked at Shayun, a mischievous glint in her eyes: "Sena asked me if I wanted to study medicine with you and your husband. During this time, I’ve been staying in the weaving building and nearly bored to death, so I didn’t hesitate at all to come find you." As she spoke, she lightly swung her hands, mimicking her helpless idleness in the weaving building.

Shayun smiled and shook her head: "I understand. Like me, you don’t enjoy tedious tasks. However, studying medicine is not easy. I’m worried you might not be able to endure the hardship and give up halfway." Her tone carried concern, her gaze was gentle, yet with a hint of maternal admonition.

Yimin shrugged and laughed carelessly: "Sister, you don’t have to worry about me! Studying medicine is definitely more interesting than weaving." Her tone was cheerful, brimming with confidence, her eyes sparkling with a desire for this new domain.

Shayun lowered her head in thought for a moment, then looked at her with a gentle gaze: "The purpose of learning medicine is to practice and save lives. Of course, the premise is that you are interested in learning, but more importantly, you must have a sense of mission." Her tone was steady and profound, conveying a concept deeper than mere interest.

Yimin nodded lightly in response, her face full of determination: "Alright! I promise you, I will study seriously." She pressed her hands to her chest, her tone sincere, as if making a vow.

Just as the two were conversing, Walu entered, accompanied by a young man. The young man’s expression was respectful, tall in stature, with a slightly youthful face. Approaching, he bowed lightly and spoke respectfully: "Princess Shayun, this is my younger brother Wami. The chief assigned him to come and serve under your orders. You may assign him any task, and he will assist you with errands."

Shayun smiled faintly, a trace of relief in her eyes: "Walu, thank you." She nodded to Wami, signaling acceptance, then extended her hand toward Wami, her tone gentle: "Wami, welcome here. From today on, you will work with us. If there is anything you need, just ask."

Wami nodded respectfully: "Thank you, Princess." His voice was deep and strong; though young, it carried a sense of determination.

The atmosphere in the assembly hall gradually became harmonious and warm as the people interacted. In this space filled with the scent of herbs, Shayun seemed not only to be imparting medical knowledge but also, through her warm demeanor, leading each newcomer into this sacred mission.

49
In the parlor of the Christian Dominican Church in Pulominzhe City, the air was filled with the scent of candlelight and wood. The quiet atmosphere seemed to separate all worldly clamor from the outside. The church’s arched ceiling soared high. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, casting multicolored patches on the floor. The sacred images and crosses on the walls silently observed every visitor, the interplay of light and shadow within the room giving a sense of holiness and solemnity. On the conference table were several Bibles and notebooks, alongside a pot of hot tea and an incense burner emitting a faint fragrance.

Bishop Gandis sat at the table, lightly tapping his fingers on the surface, his expression pensive. Opposite him sat George and Louis, the two heads of foreign trading companies, their expressions serious, words full of anxiety. George wiped the sweat from his forehead while speaking urgently: "Bishop, Louis and I are troubled over the matter of the foreign commercial agents stationed in several villages, who have been detained by the village chiefs. From what we’ve gathered, this arose because the Dutch authorities here forcibly imposed additional taxes, inciting strong discontent among the local villagers, which in turn implicated the foreign agents."

Gandis gently nodded, a trace of concern appearing on his face, then spoke in a calm yet heavy tone: "I asked the two of you to come here precisely to seek solutions." He put down the pen in his hand, clasped his hands together on the table, his gaze fixed on them.

Louis crossed his hands on the table, his tone somewhat agitated: "I also learned that the Dutch East India Company, in order to seize the European leather market, instructed the governor of Batavia, Putmans, to order Peter of the Zeeland Fortress authorities to multiply the supply of deerskins in a short period." His tone grew heavier, his brows furrowed, clearly outraged by the news.

George clenched his fists, his voice tinged with anger: "These Dutch merchants are terrible, exploiting the locals in the colonies by any means for the sake of their company’s profits. No wonder the locals have risen in resistance." He grew increasingly agitated, seemingly ready to stand at any moment.

Gandis maintained calm. He sipped his tea lightly, then responded evenly: "I am concerned that if this matter is not handled carefully, once it escalates, it could develop into long-term regional unrest. Such a situation would not only hinder the Dominican order’s missionary work in this diocese but would certainly have highly adverse effects on the commercial activities of all nations here." His tone was measured, full of considered judgment.

George nodded, his gaze still serious: "You are right, Bishop. Therefore, Louis and I have agreed that we should combine our efforts with the Dominican order to negotiate with Peter at the authorities, applying pressure together, requesting that he immediately revoke the tax order and restore calm, so that foreign merchants and agents are not innocently affected." The urgency in his tone became more apparent, as if driven by an eager force.

Gandis sighed deeply, clasping his hands over his chest, a slight lift of his brows: "We must indeed unite to pressure Peter. However, from what I know of him, he is a sly old fox. Even facing our immense pressure, he will likely not yield easily." His tone carried a trace of resignation, showing his full awareness of Peter’s cunning.

Louis lightly tapped the table, a resolute glint in his eyes: "If Peter insists on reckless behavior, we will be forced to use the allied European forces to dispatch troops, remove the Dutch and the East India Company’s colonial presence here." His tone was firm, his serious expression revealing decisive planning.

Gandis shook his head slightly, the worry in his brow undiminished: "Of course, that is the worst-case plan. But I do not wish to see all parties engaging in warfare over commercial interests, bringing mutual destruction. This region would fall into conflict, leaving the people in misery. Therefore, we should seek resolution through diplomatic channels whenever possible, with minimal cost." His tone was steady, reminding the two heads that solutions must be approached prudently.

George pondered for a moment, then nodded, understanding in his eyes: "I understand your concern, Bishop. Then we shall attempt courtesy first and force later. If Peter truly ignores the demands of foreign merchants, at least we would have justification to mobilize allied forces against the Dutch." His tone slightly eased, as if preparing for the forthcoming plan.

Gandis slightly nodded, then turned to an attendant beside him: "Pliny, later you will deliver this petition, signed by me and the two heads, to the authorities for Chief Peter." His tone was calm yet authoritative.

Pliny stood and bowed respectfully: "Understood, Bishop." His voice was brief yet firm, clearly knowledgeable of the matter.

Louis then stood, his serious expression returning: "We shall go meet this tricky fat fox Peter." His tone carried a hint of provocation, displaying his anger and dissatisfaction with Peter, seemingly mentally prepared for the negotiation.

The atmosphere in the meeting room grew heavy once more, each exchanged word deepening the solemnity. Every attendee understood that this battle of wits had only just begun, and the future would be a difficult and uncertain game.

50
Inside the office of the Zeeland Fortress authorities, the heavy wooden doors quietly opened. Father Pliny stepped into this space, filled with the dense scent of leather and smoke. The interior was dimly lit, with a few old oil lamps emitting faint light, illuminating the embroidered wall tapestries and casting a hazy golden glow. Governor Peter sat in a luxurious tiger-skin chair, his hands crossed on the table, exuding an arrogant and lazy demeanor. Officer Buckler stood straight beside him, seemingly awaiting Peter’s every command. On the wall hung two oil paintings depicting the Dutch colonial empire: one showed a merchant ship sailing to the New World, the other displayed the illustrious history of the East India Company.

Pliny bowed, offering the seemingly ordinary yet weighty petition, his tone respectful but carrying unignorable firmness: "Greetings, Chief. I am here by the order of Bishop Gandis of the Dominican diocese, delivering the bishop’s petition."

The attendant silently took the petition and quickly handed it to Peter. Peter raised a slight eyebrow, leaned back in his chair, and casually tore open the envelope to read. Candlelight flickered across his long, pen-like fingers, reflecting his displeased expression.

After reading, Peter casually handed the petition to Buckler. Buckler read it carefully, then leaned toward Peter’s ear and whispered a few words. The tone carried a hint of cold laughter and disdain, as if anticipating the forthcoming confrontation.

Buckler’s voice echoed in the silent room: "Father, return to the bishop and report that Chief Peter will be here to receive the bishop and the two heads three days from now in the morning."

Pliny nodded slightly, turning to leave. Behind him, Buckler’s eyes fixed on his back, his tone tinged with sarcasm: "As expected, the Dominicans and the foreign trading companies are joining forces, trying to intervene."

Peter waved his hand, signaling Buckler to be silent for a moment, then spoke slowly, a trace of unease in his eyes: "Chief of Staff, how do you think we should deal with these people?"

Buckler patted his elaborate uniform, his face devoid of any emotion, speaking decisively: "Of course, we cannot yield under their pressure. Otherwise, in the future, if such matters occur again, they will certainly intervene by precedent. Moreover, the task assigned to us by Governor Putmans must be completed despite any obstacles."

Peter’s brows furrowed slightly, his hands clasped on his chest. After a moment of silence, he murmured in objection: "I feel that the tax issue is becoming increasingly tricky. The Dominicans hold considerable power in Europe and maintain friendly relations with our Dutch crown. The East India Company likely cannot provoke them. Moreover, the foreign merchants here do not wish for us to monopolize trade; if the situation escalates beyond control, a united European response against us is not impossible."

Buckler remained unconcerned, smiling faintly: "Chief, we will proceed according to the original plan: first, release the hostages from those villages. Then, we will send troops into the villages to capture the village chiefs. Once the chiefs are in our hands, I do not believe the locals would dare resist."

Peter looked at the old map on the table, his fingers tracing the locations of villages. After a moment, he looked up at Buckler: "Chief of Staff, I think your method carries some risk, but at present, there is no better approach. Execute it as you suggest."

Buckler’s mouth curved slightly, revealing a cold smile: "We will create facts on the ground. As long as the situation does not spiral out of control, later the Dominicans and foreign merchants cannot challenge us."

Peter slowly stood, walked to the window, and overlooked the bustling streets of Zeeland Fortress. His gaze fixed on the distance, his mind burdened by invisible pressure. This game of commerce and politics was unlikely to be as simple as he wished.