A Siheyuan Home Brings Good Fortune

Chapter 213 Banquet
He Yukai got up early the next day and went to the courtyard first. Seeing that all the people were present, he changed his clothes and went to the State Guesthouse, as only there could these people be accommodated.

There is really no suitable place in Beijing now to accommodate these people except the State Guesthouse. The general conditions are too poor and there are no better ones.

Although they have communicated privately, it can be emphasized that He Yukai attaches great importance to the invitation letter specially written by Uncle Guan. The content includes time, place, etc., and he has to invite them in person today. There must be no mistakes in etiquette. Let them see what a country of etiquette is. It is far from the Western etiquette they know.

When He Yukai set out to invite the guests, He Daqing led He Yuzhu and Nan Yi to start preparing. The ingredients must be fresh and high-quality. He Daqing looked at the prepared ingredients and selected them carefully.

After observing the arrangements of the Security Department, Cai Wenqing put forward suggestions for rectification for a few days, then returned to the private restaurant and began to check various details to ensure that the guests enjoyed the best treatment.

He Yukai personally checked everything from the layout of the venue to the preparation of drinks, tableware and other necessities, to the attire of the waiters and even the kitchen staff. He attached great importance to this banquet and they also wanted to ensure that the guests would not find any fault with it.

The waiters and food servers were all in place, and Guan Xiaoguan made a final emphasis that she didn't want any mistakes to happen among the wait staff.

He knew clearly how long He Yukai had spent preparing for this banquet. It was originally a simple private banquet, but he did not expect that it would be mixed with other discussions in the end, such as attracting investment, so he could not be careless.

"My dear friends, we met again so soon after our separation in Hong Kong Island. I should have come to visit you earlier, but I was worried about wasting your time. So I came to invite you today and ask you to come and visit me."

He Yukai saw that these people's mentality had changed. When they were in Hong Kong Island, they were just casual acquaintances, but now it was different. They were all big moneybags, so he had to treat them well and try his best to get them to invest better in Beijing. As for his purpose, it was just to maintain relationships. He was highly valued in Hong Kong Island, and this time he also wanted to show his hospitality.

Those invited are all from the younger generation. He is not qualified to invite the older generation back in time, as the older generation needs to discuss many important issues.

"Mr. He, you are too polite. We already know about this. I don't know what to say if you send an invitation or come to invite me."

The eldest son of the Huo family looked at He Yukai with a smile. They had a new understanding of He Yukai's energy. They did not expect that this person could make the leader personally ask for their opinions and invite them. They could get a glimpse of the whole picture from just one part. They were also happy to interact with such a person.

"Everyone, please. It is an honor to invite you all to our humble home. My father and my younger brother have specially prepared the Tan family dishes, which I believe will suit your tastes."

"Then I'd rather obey you than be disrespectful."

Then everyone got in the car, He Yukai led the way, and the car slowly drove to the private restaurant.

A huge convoy appeared on the streets of Beijing, causing passers-by to stop and watch. Such a scene has not been seen for many years, and everyone was guessing the identity of the people in the car.

Compared to being rich or noble, a car is already the ceiling they can imagine, let alone a fleet of cars.

After parking in front of the private restaurant, the vehicle drove to the prepared temporary parking lot under the guidance of the guide. Everyone got off the car and saw an antique courtyard house appearing in front of everyone. They were used to living in Western-style houses, and now seeing such a magnificent courtyard house, they immediately started discussing.

He Yukai was very proud to admire the wisdom of the ancients. This was the pinnacle of Yangshi Lei's craftsmanship. Every detail was carefully carved. After Master Lei and his apprentice had finished restoring it, they praised it as his most satisfying work of art. It was obvious that the effect was excellent.

"Everyone, this is a three-story courtyard house, a traditional Chinese building, characterized by the courtyard being surrounded by houses on all four sides, including the main house, the back house, the east wing, and the west wing. The history of the courtyard house can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty, and it is now the main form of housing for most ordinary people in Beijing."

He Yukai briefly introduced the situation of the courtyard house, allowing them to have a brief understanding of the basic situation, and then led them into the central courtyard, which was the venue for the banquet.

The backyard is full of private rooms, which are prepared for those who need a quiet environment to discuss matters during the banquet.

Since there is an intention to attract investment, there will definitely be people to negotiate, and whether it is successful or not is not that important.

He Yukai mainly accompanied the people from the four wealthy families, while the others were naturally accompanied by other people. The group of noble ladies was received by Cai Wenqing and Lou Xiao'e.

The guests were all wearing custom-made cheongsams, and the waiters were dressed in Hanfu. They were stunned by the scene before them. If you didn’t know, you would think they had arrived in ancient times.

A band has already sat down, playing Chinese instruments such as the guzheng, pipa, erhu, and drum. Classical music starts playing, and my heart begins to calm down and I am no longer impetuous.

Some people have closed their eyes and tapped their fingers to the beautiful melody.

There was a large round table in the middle of the banquet, which was completely different from their other banquet styles. There were name tags on the table so one could tell their seats at a glance. After careful consideration, He Yukai sat facing south, with the left being the most honorable.

There can't be any problems with these, otherwise you might offend people, so it's quite particular.

The guests were also surprised. They didn't need to think so much and just sat down according to their seats. But after they were seated, they found that the director here was very attentive. Many people attending the banquet had never seen He Yukai, and they only came to attend because of the sons of the four wealthy families. But they were surprised to find that the director here had a clear understanding of their positioning.

It was the first time for these people to feel such attention and respect. They found that the people at the same table were of the same level as themselves. They did not need to be restrained during the meal due to differences in status. Instead, they were able to get closer to each other. Some businessmen who had never dealt with each other before could also take this opportunity to get to know each other.

Multiple friends mean multiple paths, multiple enemies mean multiple walls.

Several people felt that they had gained a lot. Some even discovered that among so many people, those who had conflicts were separated. The probability of coincidence was very small. People with similar strengths were at a table, but those who did not get along for various reasons were separated. This showed that the host knew their situation very well, which also reflected the host's strength from the side.

"Welcome to my humble abode, and welcome to the land of China. It is an honor for me. When I arrived in Hong Kong Island, I was warmly received by Mr. Huo and others. Now I am the host. I have prepared the official cuisine of the Tan family for you. Please taste it. Without further ado, let the banquet begin."

As the host, of course I have to speak first and start the banquet directly. Many people are not familiar with it now, but it doesn’t matter. There is nothing that can’t be solved over a meal of wine. If one meal doesn’t work, try two. It will be fine once you are familiar with it.

The table of noble ladies was occupied by Xu Huizhen, Chen Xueru, Cai Wenqing, Lou Xiao'e and others. There was a lot of chatter and noise. Women are strange creatures. They seem to be able to quickly close the distance and become friends with them. Men are the best matchmakers.

"Mr. He, this wine is good, very tasty."

Young Master Shao took a sip of the wine and exclaimed in admiration. It was obvious that he was a wine lover.

"Haha, this wine is made by my aunt. She has kept it for ten years. If it weren't for the banquet for the guests, my aunt would not be willing to take it out. You are lucky to have it. I have only had it a few times."

Originally, He Yukai was going to use national liquor to entertain the guests, but was stopped by his aunt, who took out the good wine that she had collected for many years, homemade grain wine. After years of collection, the taste was not worse than the national liquor, and was even better.

He Yukai decided to use Xiaoshen's wine, which is unique. The survival space of many small workshops with exclusive craftsmanship in later generations was compressed and finally disappeared in front of everyone. Five thousand years of culture is not just those few wines.

"Oh? I didn't expect that home-brewed wine would taste like this. I have an idea, Mr. He, do you know?"

Young Master Shao drank such good wine and felt that he would have great potential if he could form a partnership. However, before coming to Shenzhou, he made up his mind to learn about the local customs and practices here. He knew that many families in Shenzhou attached great importance to their unique secret recipes, but he was unwilling to give them up, so he hesitated.

"Mr. Shao said frankly that we are all friends and don't need to worry too much."

He Yukai really couldn't guess what this person wanted to say. His family was in the entertainment industry. Although this person was involved in real estate in Singapore, the real estate investment here could be discussed directly with the relevant departments. He couldn't help much here!
"I think this kind of good wine has great potential. I want to discuss cooperation. I wonder if Mr. He can introduce your aunt to me?"

Shao Ershao's words made He Yukai unbelievable. You actually want to get involved in the wine industry. However, this still depends on Xu Huizhen's opinion. You can't make a decision casually.

"No problem, everyone, please take a seat first." There was still some time before the dishes were served. Seeing Young Master Shao's impatient look, he could only apologize and lead his men towards Xu Huizhen.

"Aunt, we have something to discuss here. Let's go to the backyard! Excuse me, ladies. Mr. Shao and my aunt have something to discuss. We will have to excuse ourselves for the time being."

After hearing what He Yukai said, a lady left the table with Xu Huizhen. Considering that she was the wife of the second young master Shao, she briefly introduced herself to Xu Huizhen, and Xu Huizhen followed her and left.

Here, Chen Xueru was having an animated conversation with a lady. He Yukai heard a few words from them and learned that they were discussing the silk business. It was a good start and they had received two cooperation intentions in a short period of time.

At this time, the waiters and waiters began to serve the dishes, and one dish after another was placed on the table, allowing these guests from Hong Kong Island to experience the breadth and depth of food culture. The first thing served by the waiter in cheongsam was the appetizer, which was a large platter of cold dishes: cold jellyfish shreds, stewed pork skin, and four other dishes.

Next, there are four hot dishes served by people wearing Hanfu, such as fried shrimp, fried chicken, etc.
The main course came after four cold dishes and four hot dishes: Cantonese-style roast pork, braised duck liver, garlic scallops, spiced fish, soft fried chicken, and finally braised shark's fin.

The main course ends with soup, which marks the end of the banquet. Of course, dessert is also served, and finally there is fruit.

He Daqing used his best skills and He Yuzhu benefited a lot. It turned out that many dishes were made in this way. What he didn't understand in the recipe was now clearly understood by He Daqing's personal demonstration.

"Mr. He, I haven't eaten such delicious food for a long time. It's a pity that I won't be able to eat it when I go back." The son-in-law of the Bao family sighed while eating. Today's dishes are very much to their taste and make people unable to stop.

Mr. Shao smiled, he must have gained something, and continued: "Yes, to me, being able to cook such exquisite dishes only exists in legends, it's so delicious."

At present, the food in Hong Kong Island is still relatively simple. What can you eat in a Western restaurant? Although there are many Cantonese dishes, they are just like that after eating too much. Don’t say that eating Tan’s dishes is really a different experience. Others also echoed it. I don’t know if they really think so or give face to the host.

The ladies' table was not idle either. The eldest lady of the Huo family was very envious of the cheongsam Chen Xueru was wearing, especially after feeling the touch with her hands, she liked it even more. She now knew the reason why the second young master Shao came to see Xu Huizhen just now.

The second young lady of the Shao family told her quietly that this incident gave her a different idea, and she could take this opportunity to test it out.

"Sister Chen, your dress is of top quality in both fabric and style. Where did you buy it? I also want to buy a few to take back with me."

"Mrs. Huo, buy whatever you want. I'll send you a few pieces when the time comes, and you can take them away directly. I have a few more styles over there. When you have time, come to my store and choose for yourself."

Chen Xueru is a smart person. She knows that the person whom He Yukai entertains with such care is not a simple character. It's just a few pieces of clothes, not a big deal.

"Oh? Could it be that these waiters' clothes were also custom-made by Sister Chen?"

The surprise shouldn't come too quickly, Mrs. Huo felt that her idea should be fine.

"It was custom-made by me, but the drawings were provided by Mr. He."

Chen Xueru did not hide anything, and there was no need to hide these things.

"I didn't expect Mr. Ho to design clothes. I have a feeling these clothes will be a big hit in Hong Kong Island. Sister Chen, do you think there is any chance for us to work together?"

Mrs. Huo stated her ultimate goal, which was to cooperate with Chen Xueru and run the business together.

She has always wanted to have her own business in recent years, and has only made small efforts in other areas. However, this trip to China has provided her with many ideas. Now she can be sure that the most suitable one should be the cheongsam that she longs for.

"Of course, please come to our shop after the banquet. I'll make a few clothes for you first, and we'll discuss the details of the cooperation later."

Of course Chen Xueru was willing. She had heard from Cai Wenqing about the situation in Hong Kong. It was a huge market with a high consumption level. Why would she refuse such a good thing?

"Okay, then we have a deal."

"A word is settled"

Chen Xueru had her own considerations for not agreeing directly. She wanted to hear He Yukai's opinions on the details of the cooperation. She didn't want to be a sucker. She believed that He Yukai should be able to provide her with good advice. All in all, not only Xu Huizhen benefited, but she also gained a lot.

Cai Wenqing watched this scene with a smile. At least it was a good start and it was not in vain. As for the He family? The connections were a huge gain.

"Mr. He, if I'm not mistaken, these porcelains?"

They were chatting about all sorts of things while eating and drinking. Just at this moment, Young Master Huo finally spoke. He Yukai had noticed his movements a long time ago. After all, how could he not notice him since he was right next to him?

"Oh? Is there something wrong, Mr. Huo?"

This is certainly the best time to be Versailles. If not now, when will you show off?
"If I'm not mistaken, this should be an official kiln from the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty, right?"

Young Master Huo was not very sure either. Although he was hesitant, he still wanted to know the answer urgently. It was really unbelievable that such porcelain was used to entertain guests. Could it be that He Yukai had such a deep background?
When others heard what Mr. Huo said, they stared at the tableware in front of them and their movements became much lighter. To them, these were things to be admired, and they were reluctant to use them as tableware to entertain guests. If they were broken, they would be heartbroken.

"That's right, Mr. Huo has a good eye. It is indeed a Yongzheng official kiln porcelain. I didn't expect that Mr. Huo also studies antiques. I admire him."

Young Master Huo looked at He Yukai with admiration and wanted to yell, "Is this the key point? The key point is that you, a prodigal son, are using such good things to entertain guests. Aren't you afraid that you will break a few of them when you get drunk?" There is a saying that "Look at Chenghua in Ming Dynasty and Yongzheng in Qing Dynasty" for porcelain, which shows that Yongzheng's official kiln porcelain still has a high status in the collection world.

Others who own one set would collect it as a treasure, but you took out so many sets, at least eight sets for this table, right?

"It really opened my eyes. You said the zither played by the woman over there is a Jiaoweiqin, right?"

Young Master Huo really couldn't stand this bullying and uttered these words slowly.

"Ahem, Mr. Huo is really good at joking."

He Yukai almost spit out the tea in his mouth. How could it be possible? If it was a Jiaoweiqin, he would have put it away long ago. Why would he take it out and play it for others?

"However, this guzheng has a history. It has been identified as being made by Zhang Fuqi himself."

He Yukai seemed embarrassed to introduce him to Mr. Huo. Seeing his stunned look, He Yukai laughed secretly, "You country bumpkins, you still want to tease me?" Today's banquet was prepared by him personally. It can be said that he put a lot of effort into it. He Yukai had never seen the world before, and he felt very happy.

"Could it be Zhang Fuqi, who is also known as 'Zhang the Musical Instrument'?"

Mr. Huo had obviously studied it before, and he directly called out the name of the instrument Zhang. As for the others, they seemed confused and couldn't understand, but he seemed very good at it, and turned to look at the guzheng under the woman's fingers.

"Yes, that's him"

Young Master Huo was completely convinced. These were things that were obviously collected. He Yukai's own collection must be beyond his imagination. These things were in short supply. Even if you wanted to buy them at a high price, you had to see if people were willing to sell them. Many of them could be regarded as heirlooms.

"You don't have to do this, everyone. You are all honored guests, so of course it's different. In my eyes, you are much more important than these things. These are just ordinary tableware, so there's no need to do this."

He Yukai was going further and further on the road of showing off, and it seemed like he couldn't stop. He hadn't felt this accomplished in a long time, and he was starting to feel a little bit proud.

The people sitting at the same table with He Yukai were silent. No matter if he was just pretending or being Versailles, he had the ability to do it. This had been confirmed by Young Master Huo. They imagined that they had not been gentle when they put the tableware in place just now. They looked at the tableware in front of them with heartache. Although it did not belong to them, they had used it after all, so they carefully observed whether there was any damage.

Compared with He Yukai, they are the country bumpkins. They have nothing except a little money at home. At least their families can't afford so many things. This is just the tip of the iceberg.

They didn't believe that He Yukai didn't have something more precious in his hands. The Chinese people were so reserved that they would definitely hide their best things and wouldn't show them to others easily. Whatever they could take out was nothing compared to other people's collections.

Today they were taught a lesson by He Yukai. After arriving in Shenzhou, they gradually developed a sense of superiority, but now this sense of superiority was shattered by He Yukai.

(End of this chapter)