Chapter 28 Chapter Twenty Seven

By the time Anderson emerged from his apartment building, Carlisle was waiting impatiently in the rickshaw.He kept looking around, as if he wanted to see through every piece of darkness around him.Anderson felt that this man looked like a rabbit who was too timid. "You look a little nervous." Anderson climbed into the car and said. Carlisle's face was very gloomy. "White shirts occupy the Victory Hotel. Everything has been confiscated." Anderson glanced up at his apartment.Poor old Yates chose this residence away from the rest of the Farang, "Have you lost much?"

"The cash in the safe, and some client lists that I didn't have time to put in the office." Carlisle called out to the rickshaw driver in front, telling him the destination in Thai, "Negotiate terms with these people, you'd better have some good things .” "Akarat knows what I can bring him." They began to gallop through the wet night, and the Cheshire cats scattered on the road.Carlisle glanced back, wondering if someone was following them, "There's no official announcement yet about Farang, but you know, we're definitely next on the list. No way of knowing we're going to stay in this country." how long."

"Look on the bright side. If they start picking on Farang, Akarat's days will be over." They walk through the dark city.There is a checkpoint ahead.Carlisle wiped his forehead, sweating like a pig.The white shirt gestured to them, and the rickshaw started to slow down. Anderson was nervous for a while, "Are you sure this will work?" Carlisle wiped his forehead again, "I'll find out soon." The rickshaw stopped, surrounded by white shirts.Carlisle said something quickly, and handed over another piece of paper.The white shirts exchanged for a while, and then saluted humbly, indicating that the two Farangs could move on.

"It's amazing." Carlisle laughed, and his voice revealed that he was also relieved, "As long as there is a proper stamp on the paper, miracles can happen." "It surprises me that Akarat still has influence." Carlisle shook his head, "Akarat can't do this." Roadside buildings are gradually being replaced by slums, meaning they are getting closer to the sea wall.The rickshaw skirts a chunk of concrete on the road that has fallen from the wall of a nearby expansion-era restaurant.Anderson figured the building must have been beautiful in the past.In the moonlight, its floors sloped upwards to great heights.But now, it is surrounded by slum dwellings, the only remaining shards of glass gleaming like tusks on the massive glass facades.The rickshaw stopped below the steps of the sea wall.Pairs of guardian snakes stood on both sides of the steps, silently watching Carlisle as he paid the money to the coachman.

"Come with me." Carlisle walked in front, and Anderson followed him up the steps, his hands unconsciously brushing the scales of the Zombie.Panoramic views of the city can be seen from the top of this embankment.The royal palace in the distance is shining brightly, and the inner courtyard where the Child Queen and her servants live is surrounded by high walls, but the steeple in the middle protrudes from the high wall, reflecting soft light in the moonlight .Carlisle tugged Anderson's sleeve, "Don't be in a daze." Looking at the dark coastline below, Anderson hesitated, "Where is the white shirt? They should have a lot of people here."

"Don't worry. They don't dare to mess around here." Thinking of something funny, Carlisle laughed a few times, leaned over the cable that circled around the sea wall, "follow me." Use the land to climb down the uneven embankment and find your way to the choppy sea.Anderson continued to search the empty area, still hesitating, but he followed anyway. Upon reaching the shoreline, a twisted clockwork speedboat emerged from the darkness and began to steer in their direction.Anderson almost jumped up, thinking it was the white shirt's patrol boat, but Carlisle whispered, "It's ours." The two walked a few steps in the shallow water and jumped onto the boat.The speedboat made a sharp turn and headed out to sea.The moonlight shone on the waves, and the sea was like a blanket woven of silver threads.All around were the sound of waves lapping against the hull, and the ticking of twisted springs releasing energy.Ahead of them, the shadow of a barge gradually emerged.Apart from a few LED lights, there is no light on board.

Their speedboat was moored to the side of the barge.After a while, a rope ladder was lowered, and the two climbed up the dark barge along the rope ladder.The crew saluted them respectfully, and they were led to the lower decks.Carlisle gestured to Anderson to keep quiet.At the end of the corridor was a door, and guards stood on either side of it, announcing to those inside that Fran was coming.The door opened immediately, and inside was a group of people sitting around a large dining table, all drinking and talking and laughing. One of them is Akarat.The other person, whom Anderson remembered, was an admiral who had repeatedly prevented Calorie's ships from going to Anglet Island.There was another, which Anderson thought might have been a general in the southern regions.In the corner stood a thin man in a black military uniform with wary eyes.there's still one……

Anderson gasped. Carlisle whispered: "Kneel down and show respect." He was already on his knees and kowtowed.Anderson also knelt down as fast as he could. His Royal Highness Somde Chao Phraya looked expressionlessly at the two Farang who were making a big salute. Seeing their groveling appearance, Akarat laughed loudly.He came around the table to them and helped them up. "There's no need to be so polite here," he said, smiling. "Come, come to the table. Friends here." "Well said." His Royal Highness Somdej Chaophya smiled and raised his glass to them, "Come have a drink."

Anderson clasped his hands together again and bowed his head as low as possible.According to Fu Sheng, His Highness Somdej Chao Phraya killed more people than the Ministry of Environment killed chickens.Before being appointed protector of Her Majesty the Child Queen, he was a general, and his campaigns in the East were known for their brutality.Some even think that, had he not come from such an unremarkable background, he might even have considered overthrowing the Chakri dynasty and replacing it.Even though he didn't do that, he was always looming behind the throne, and everyone kowtowed to him.

Anderson's heart was pounding.Now that His Highness Somdej Chaophya supports regime change, everything is possible.After years of searching and failings in Finland, there is finally a seed bank this close.And with the discovery of this seed bank, Solanaceae, Ngaw, and countless other genetic mysteries will all be answered.The person in front of him who is toasting him with a smile that may be kind or hostile, holds the key to all of this in his hand. A servant pours wine for Anderson and Carlisle.The two sat with the people around the table. "We were talking about the coal war," Akarat prompted. "The Vietnamese have recently temporarily abandoned Phnom Penh."

"Well, that's good news." The conversation continued, but Anderson wasn't paying full attention to what they were saying.He was secretly observing His Highness Somdej Chaophya.The last time he had seen this person was outside the Ministry of Environment temple dedicated to Phra Sebubu, when they were both attracted by the clockwork girl brought by the Japanese.There are plenty of pictures of him as the protector of the Child Queen, but he looks older in person.His face had some red blotches from drinking, and his eyes were sunken badly, presumably from the corrupt life he was rumored to have loved.Fusheng said that the cruelty of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent on the battlefield was commensurate with the corruption of his private life, and that, although Thais would kowtow before him, he was not loved by everyone like the Child Queen.Now, when His Highness Somdej Chao Phraya raised his head and met Anderson's eyes, Anderson felt that he understood the reason. He had seen Calorie senior officials like this man before.Those who hold power and can threaten to embargo super soybeans will make countries kneel at their feet. This kind of people are all fascinated by the power in their hands.This is a cold and cruel guy.Anderson wondered whether, with this man, the Child Queen would ever truly gain power as an adult.It seems unlikely. The conversation at the dinner table continued, but everyone was careful not to mention the real reason for the nocturnal conclave.They talk about the bountiful harvests in the north, the dams China built on the upper Mekong, and so on.Now, they talked about the new fast sailing boat newly designed by Sanxia Machinery Company. "When the wind direction is right, the speed can reach forty knots!" Carlisle happily knocked on the table. "Folding hydrofoils, with a full load of 1,500 tons. I'm going to buy a whole fleet of them!" Akarat laughed loudly, "I think air transport represents the future, the kind of airship with a very high load capacity." "Compared to this clipper ship? I wouldn't bet it all on airships. In the previous era of expansion, mass transportation has always been a combination of air and sea. I don't think this time will change." "These days, everyone thinks about a new era of expansion." Akarat's smile faded away.He glanced at Somdej Chao Phraya, who nodded slightly almost imperceptibly.The Minister of Trade then said directly to Anderson, "Someone important in the kingdom is opposed to this process. Their ignorance is undeniable. The problem is that these people are very stubborn and have caused us great inconvenience." "If you're asking for help," Anderson said, "we're more than happy to do what we can." Another pause.Akarat's eyes drifted to Somdej Chao Phraya again.He cleared his throat: "However, we still have doubts about your so-called help. What you have done in the past does not give us enough confidence." "It's like going to bed with a brood of poisonous scorpions," added His Highness Somdej Chaophya. Anderson smiled slightly, "In my opinion, there are enough poisonous scorpion nests around you. As long as you allow, some of these nests can be completely cleared. It is beneficial to both of us." "The price you're asking for is too high," said Akarat. Anderson kept his voice calm: "We don't want anything but that authority." "And that guy called Gibson." "So you know this man?" Anderson leaned forward. "Do you know where he is?" Everyone around the table fell silent.Akarat glanced at Somdej Chaophya again.The latter shrugged, but that was enough for Anderson.Gibson is here, somewhere in the country, maybe in this city, and Ngaw is undoubtedly another achievement for him. "We're not claiming the whole country," Anderson said. "The Kingdom of Thailand is nothing like Burma or India. It has its own history and has always maintained its independence. We respect that very much." Everyone's faces became ugly. Anderson cursed to himself: Stupid, that's what they're afraid of, and you said it.He changed his strategy, "This is a great opportunity, cooperation is beneficial to both sides. Our people are ready to provide effective help to the kingdom. Once we reach an agreement here, they can go immediately. Help you settle the border Disputes, achieving food security — that hasn't been achieved since the days of expansion. It's all available to you. It's an opportunity for all of us." Anderson stopped.The army general is nodding, and the navy general is frowning.Akarat and Somdej Chao Phraya were expressionless, and he could not read their thoughts at all. "Excuse me," Akarat said. This is not a polite request.The guards signaled Anderson and Carlisle to leave.In an instant, they were led into a corridor surrounded by guards. Carlisle stared at the ground, "It seems that you haven't convinced them. Can you think of why they don't trust you?" "I've got weapons and cash for bribes, and I can go ashore with a word. I can buy them off and give them better equipment, if only they can open a line of communication with Pracha's generals. They're here There is no risk at all in this transaction!" Anderson shook his head angrily, "Such a good opportunity is in front of us, they should pounce on it. This is the most reasonable proposal we have ever made." "It's not about the proposal, it's about you. You, and Nongji, and your damn bad record. If they believe you, it's easy. If they don't..." Carlisle shrugged. The door opened and the two were invited in again.Akarat said, "Thank you for taking the time. I think we will seriously consider your offer." This polite refusal made Carlisle suddenly dejected.Seeing the reaction after the news passed, His Highness Somdej Chao Phraya smiled - he may be very happy to be able to hit these farang.More polite phrases echoed through the cabin, but Anderson could barely hear them.He was rejected.He had been so close to Ngaw's secret that he could have tasted it, but now they raised the bar again.There must be some way to reopen negotiations.He looked at Somdej Chao Phraya.He needs a lever, something that can break this deadlock... Anderson nearly laughed out loud.He found the missing piece of the puzzle.Carlisle was still mumbling in disappointment, but Anderson just smiled and gave a Namaste, looking for an opportunity to prolong the conversation for a little while, "I completely understand your concerns. We don't get enough Trust. Maybe we could discuss something else, say, a project to crystallize our goodwill. The stakes don't need to be too high." The admiral frowned, "We don't need anything from your hands." "Please don't jump to conclusions. Our proposal is well-intentioned. Leaving aside the previous friendly plan, if you change your mind and want our assistance, whether it is a week later, a year later, or ten years later, whatever You will have our full support at all times." "Very well said," said Akarat.He gave the admiral a stern look, but with a smile on his face, "We don't need to hurt each other's feelings. Please have at least one more drink. Bringing you here from so far brought you A lot of trouble. When it comes time to part, we have no reason not to regard you as our friend." Well, he's not quite out yet.Anderson breathed a sigh of relief, "I think so too." Soon everyone was drinking again.Carlyle promised that once the present embargo was lifted, he would send a whole shipment of saffron from India to all of you here.Akarat told a story: a white shirt tried to collect three bribes from three different food stalls, but he couldn't figure it out.Anderson kept his eyes on Somdej Chao Phraya, waiting for an opportunity to speak to him. Somdej Chao Phraya walked to a window, looking out at the water, and Anderson walked over. "It's really a pity that your proposal was not accepted." The other party said. Anderson shrugged, "I am very happy to be able to leave here alive. A few years ago, even if I just wanted to meet you, I would have been trampled to death by several giant elephants." Somdej Chaophya laughed. "Are you confident that we will let you go away alive?" "It can be said that I have enough confidence. It's just a gamble, not to mention that you may not lose." Anderson said, "You and Akarat are both respectable people. Even if we fail to reach an agreement in all aspects, I still think You will not kill me." "No? At least half of the people in this room suggested that throwing you into the river to feed the fish would be the wisest choice." The regent paused, staring coldly at Anderson with sunken eyes, "This kind of It almost happened." Anderson forced a smile, "I guess you and your admiral may not agree?" "That's it tonight." Anderson saluted, "Thank you very much." "Don't thank me yet. I could still decide to kill you. People like you have a bad reputation." "Are you willing to give me a chance to exchange some conditions for my own life?" Anderson asked sarcastically. Somdej Chao Phraya shrugged, "It won't do you any good. Of all the things you have, the most worthy of my taking is your life." "It looks like I'm going to have to offer something special." Those deep-set eyes glanced at Anderson, "Improbable." "Not really," Anderson said. "I can give you something you've never seen before, and I could even bring it to you tonight. It's very beautiful. Maybe not for the clean freak. Amazing, extremely rare. Is that enough to keep you from sending me to the fish?" Somdej Chao Phraya gave him an annoyed look, "You can take it out, but I haven't seen it before. Is there really such a thing?" "Would you like to take a bet?" "Still gambling, Farang?" Somdej Chao Phraya smiled. "Aren't you taking enough risks tonight?" "Of course not. I'm just trying to keep my limbs on my body. Considering that I might lose my life just now, this time is hardly an adventure." Anderson looked directly at Somdeok Chao Phraya eyes, "I'd take a gamble. What about you?" Somdej Chao Phraya gave him a cold look and shouted to his men: "Our calorie company employee turned out to be a gambler! He said he could show me something I've never seen before. You all What do you think?" All his men burst out laughing. "It seems that the situation is very unfavorable to you." Somdej Chao Phraya said. "Even so, I still think it's worth the gamble. And I'm willing to bet a lot." "Are you talking about money?" Somdej Chao Phraya pouted, "I thought we were talking about your life." "So, what do you think of the blueprints for my twist spring factory?" "As long as I want, I can take it away at any time." Somdeok Chao Phraya snapped his fingers impatiently, "Just like this, then, it will be mine." "Okay then." Anderson frowned—it's all win or lose all, "What if I am willing to provide you and your kingdom with my company's next-generation Udex rice? Is this a big bet? And Not just rice, but unsterilized rice. Your people can grow that rice over and over again until it loses its resistance to rust. My life will never be worth more than that." The room fell silent.Somdej Chaophya studied him. "So, to compensate you for the risk, what do you want if you win?" "I would like to continue to discuss the political proposal we discussed before, on the same terms as just proposed. We all know that these conditions are extremely beneficial to you and your kingdom." Somdej Chao Phraya narrowed his eyes, "You are such a stubborn guy. Well, what if you lose and don't want to hand over the Udex rice you said?" Anderson smiled and waved to Carlisle, "I think, if we are useless, you will send me and Mr. Carlisle to be dismembered by a giant elephant. Does this satisfy you?" Carlisle laughed hysterically, "What kind of gamble is this!" Anderson kept his eyes on Somdej Chaophya, "The only bet that matters. I believe that if I can really surprise him, His Highness Somdej Chaophya will keep his word, and we will give ourselves to To him as a token of that trust. It's a perfectly reasonable gamble. We're all people of our word." Somdej Chao Phraya smiled. "I take your bet." He laughed and slapped Anderson on the back. "Surprise me, Farang. And, good luck. Seeing your dead body being killed by a giant elephant Trampling, I will be very satisfied." This group of oddly composed characters walks the streets and across the city.His Royal Highness Somdej Chaophya's entourage - this status allowed them to pass through all checkpoints with ease.When they realized who the person they were trying to stop was, the white shirts all screamed. Carlisle wiped his forehead with a handkerchief. "My God, you're a crazy bastard. I shouldn't have agreed to introduce you to them." Now that the gamble has been formed and the risks identified, Anderson tends to agree with Carlisle's assessment.The offer to give Udex rice for free is indeed a huge risk.Even if his superiors support it, the financial side will oppose it.The life and death of a calorie agent obviously cannot be compared with the output seed.If Thais start exporting this rice, their income will be greatly affected for years to come. "It's nothing," he whispered, "trust me." "Trust you?" Carlisle's hands trembled. "Let me be sent to the foot of the giant elephant?" He looked around. "Maybe I should run away now." "Don't waste your energy. Somdej Chao Phraya has given orders to his guards. If we change our minds and want to run away now..." He raised his head towards the guards who were pedaling the rickshaw behind him, "They will be will kill you." After a few minutes, the familiar tall buildings gradually came into view. "Phun Chi?" Carlisle asked, "Jesus and Noah, are you serious? Bring Somdej Chao Phraya to this place?" "Calm down. Speaking of which, you brought me this inspiration." Anderson jumped off the rickshaw.Somdej Chao Phraya and his entourage stand in front of the entrance.Somdej Chaophya gave him a pitying look, "That's the best idea you could have? A girl? Sex?" He shook his head. "Don't jump to conclusions." Anderson indicated that they should go in and have a look, "Please. Sorry, we have to take the stairs. The environment here is not worthy of your status, but I promise, what you see is definitely worth it .” Somdej Chao Phraya shrugged and motioned for Anderson to lead the way.His guards huddled close to him, tense at the darkness around them.Seeing Somdej Chao Phraya, drug addicts and prostitutes in the stairwell knelt down and kowtowed in panic.News of their arrival passed quickly up the stairs.Some of Somdej Chao Phraya's guards ran upstairs, searching the darkness for any factors that might be detrimental to His Highness. The bar door opens.The girls knelt down.Songde Chao Phraya looked around slightly, with a look of disgust on his face, "Is this the place where you Falang often come?" "As I said, the environment here is not the best," Anderson said. "Go this way, please." He strode across the room and drew back a curtain to reveal a stage inside. Emiko was lying on the stage, and the men gathered in the audience.The Clockwork Girl's body trembled under the phosphorescence of the Glowing Worm.Somdej Chao Phraya stopped suddenly and stared at her with wide eyes. "I thought it was only in Japan," he murmured.