Striving in the Red Mansion.

Summary

The narrative describes the tumultuous interactions between the Hu people and the Guo family in Dunhuang during the Han Dynasty. The Hu's aggressive nature leads to conflicts, particularly involving Gu Li, a wealthy merchant, who threatens the Guo family over grain pricing disputes. Gu Li demands an exorbitant compensation of 200,000 silver dollars and seeks to take the Guo family's daughter as his concubine, showcasing the power dynamics and tensions in the region. The Guo family, aware of the potential repercussions from the Tuguhun people, feels cornered and humiliated. Meanwhile, Jia Huan, a quartermaster, arrives at the Guo residence, unaware of the brewing conflict, seeking to ensure military supply stability. The chapter highlights themes of power, conflict, and the fragile nature of alliances in a chaotic society.

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