Courtyard House: Initial Donation of 50 Million

Late summer of 1957, Beijing, Red Star United Industrial Corporation.

The wind and sand of the Gobi Desert and the scorching heat seemed to still linger in the memory on his skin, but Wang Huanbo's mind had completely switched from the massive and precise foundation pouring site of the "Qiming" project in Yumen back to the bustling "Iron Horse Project" trial production workshop of the Hongxing Factory, filled with the clanging of metal and the smell of engine oil.

The trip to Yumen was highly fruitful. Based on the successful experience of the "principle verification device" and the advanced knowledge he submitted under the guise of "in-depth theoretical deduction" provided by the system rewards, the engineering design of the "Qiming-I" prototype at the main base was optimized in many aspects. In particular, the suggestions regarding precise control of magnetic field configuration, special welding technology for the vacuum chamber, and preliminary suppression schemes for plasma instability were adopted and put into blueprints by top physicists and engineers drawn from all over the country after countless intense discussions and verifications. The remote time-sharing terminals of the "Yinhe-I" computers (connected via secure lines) in the rudimentary "computing center" at the Yumen base worked day and night, processing massive amounts of engineering calculations and simulation data with efficiency far exceeding that of manual labor, providing unprecedented precision support for the design of key components. Although there is still a long way to go before the true "artificial sun" is ignited, every step has been solid and clear. After assigning detailed tasks for the subsequent research and development, verification, and processing of some non-core components to the heads of each group, Wang Huanbo, feeling both exhausted and fulfilled, boarded the train back to Beijing.

Back at the Hongxing Factory, he was greeted by a familiar, energetic hustle and bustle. The "Iron Horse Project" was progressing even faster than he had anticipated. After the initial trial and error and the growing pains of programming and debugging, those precious "three-axis CNC machine tools" were now able to reliably produce some complex-shaped, high-precision core components for motorcycle engines. Although the yield rate still needed improvement and the processing speed was far from ideal, seeing those mirror-smooth cylinder blocks, crankshafts, and gearbox gear blanks with tolerances down to the micrometer level being removed from the machine tools, Wang Huanbo knew that the most difficult first step had been taken.

The auxiliary design capabilities of "Pangu" were utilized to the fullest. In its "virtual space," every component of the three motorcycles from different eras and with distinct styles—the stable and robust BMW R60, the unrestrained Harley-Davidson FLH, and the agile Honda CB77—was re-analyzed, optimized, and adapted to the current domestic manufacturing processes and material properties. The biggest surprise came from a deep simulation optimization of the entire vehicle's electrical system after "Pangu" integrated the computing resources of "Galaxy-I." While ensuring reliability, Wang Huanbo overruled objections and added a feature to all three models that was ahead of its time and considered "luxurious" in this era—an electric start system.

"We need a compelling selling point, especially when targeting overseas markets." At a special meeting on the "Iron Horse Project," Wang Huanbo pointed to the circuit diagram and starter motor structure diagram on the blackboard and explained to the leaders, factory leaders, and technical backbones from the First Ministry of Machinery Industry present, "Foot start is conventional, but it's not 'high-end' enough. Electric start, with the push of a button, immediately starts the engine. This convenience and sense of occasion plays a huge role in enhancing the product's grade and establishing a brand image. It's not just about making things convenient for users, but also about showcasing our technological strength. We can use this as an important selling point."

This proposal initially sparked some controversy. Electric starting meant requiring larger capacity batteries, more reliable starters, and more complex circuitry, increasing costs, and reliability needed to be verified under the technological conditions at the time. However, Wang Huanbo presented various design schemes and reliability prediction data simulated by "Pangu," and promised to personally oversee the development of key components (such as high-performance permanent magnet starters and maintenance-free lead-acid batteries). Ultimately, under the overarching goal of "exporting foreign exchange and establishing a high-end brand," this forward-thinking proposal was approved.

Meanwhile, customized improvements for specific domestic needs (especially for the military and police) are also underway. The model based on the BMW R60 (internal codename "Red Star-Guardian") has been particularly emphasized for its robustness, reliability, and adaptability to harsh environments. The frame has been strengthened, and the suspension system has been tuned to better suit unpaved roads. Most importantly, drawing inspiration from the design of vehicles like the German R75 from World War II, a standardized sidecar interface has been provided, and a sophisticated additional transmission mechanism enables sidecar wheel drive and reverse gear functionality! This allows the "Red Star-Guardian," after adding the sidecar, to not only carry three people and transport more supplies, but also gain off-road and maneuverability comparable to a three-wheeled vehicle, especially in tight spaces where turning around and reversing becomes exceptionally convenient—crucial for patrol, communication, and border patrol missions.

"What we're building is not just a motorcycle, but a reliable, multi-purpose mobile platform," Wang Huanbo emphasized to the engineers in charge of the "Guardian" project.

After nearly a month of relentless effort, overcoming numerous challenges related to materials, processes, and assembly, the first batch of prototypes finally rolled off the production line in late summer and early autumn, entering the intensive final testing phase. Five units of each of the three models were produced. Adorned with temporary, undetermined test paints (military green for the "Defender," gloss black for the Harley-Davidson, and silver-gray for the Honda), they underwent various rigorous tests on a dedicated testing ground within the factory premises: durability, load-bearing capacity, hill climbing, water fording, high-speed driving, off-road driving…

For the first time, the roar of engines echoed so densely and melodiously over the Hongxing Factory. The sound was different from the deep, resonant "putt-putt" of the "little cannon" tractors, and different from the roar of the diesel engines in the Jiefang trucks; it was a higher-pitched, rhythmic "toot-toot," occasionally interspersed with the brisk "buzzing" of the electric starter motor and the smooth idling sound of the engine after a successful start. This sound attracted many workers to put down their work and secretly peer through the fence of the testing ground, their eyes filled with novelty and pride.

"Wow, this is a motorcycle we made ourselves? It's awesome!"

"Look at that black one, how imposing! Just like the ones foreign capitalists ride in the movies!"

"The green one is practical; look, you can even hang a cargo box on it! It's good for carrying people or goods!"

"That silver-gray one is small; it must be fast!"

Just as the prototype vehicle testing was in full swing, Xu Damao's report on "equipping rural projectionists with motorcycles to improve work efficiency and publicity effectiveness" was placed on Wang Huanbo's desk through Li Huaide.

Wang Huanbo carefully read the report. Xu Damao's report detailed the various inconveniences of currently relying on bicycles or hitchhiking to show films in rural areas, emphasizing the importance of timeliness and coverage. Drawing on his observations in the Hongxing Commune, he argued that motorcycles (especially those with sidecars) were the ideal tool for solving these problems, even proposing the idea of ​​using them as "mobile propaganda stations." While the report inevitably contained Xu Damao's characteristic exaggeration and self-praise, its core appeal—improving the mobility and coverage of grassroots propaganda work—was reasonable and practically significant.

"This Xu Damao certainly knows how to seize opportunities," Wang Huanbo said with a smile to Li Huaide sitting opposite him. "However, the problem he raised does exist. Our motorcycles, especially the 'Guardian' model, were designed with multi-purpose use and harsh road conditions in mind. Having projectionists test them in actual use and collect firsthand reliability data under long-distance, heavy-load, and complex road conditions is very beneficial for improving the design. This is more realistic than simulating it ourselves on the test track."

Li Huaide nodded: "That's what I meant too. Besides, letting him ride our own motorcycles to the countryside is a real eye-opener. When the people see this, they'll think, 'Wow, Hongxing Factory can not only make tractors, but also such impressive motorcycles!' It's good for our factory's image and for promoting our subsequent products. It's just that this kid is a bit too flashy. We need to make sure he explains the tasks clearly and not just focus on showing off."

"The task must be clear, and the data must be detailed." Wang Huanbo pondered for a moment. "So, from the 'Guardian' prototype vehicles, select the one with the most stable condition and the best test data, install a standard sidecar, and assign it to him. But make it clear, this isn't an assignment; it's a testing task. He needs to record in detail the mileage, road conditions, load, fuel consumption, any malfunctions (even minor ones), starting conditions (especially electric start), driving experience, and the public's direct reactions to the vehicle for each trip. He must submit a detailed test report every two weeks. If he does a good job, this vehicle can be given priority for allocation to their publicity department in the future. If he's perfunctory or causes major problems with the vehicle, not only will it be taken back, but he will also be held accountable."

"Okay! That's settled then! I'll go make the arrangements right away and give him a proper explanation of the rules." Li Huaide acted swiftly and decisively.

When Xu Damao was summoned to Li Huaide's office and heard the decision, he could hardly believe his ears. He had originally written the report with a "what the heck" attitude, but he never expected that it would not only be approved by Deputy Factory Director Li, but also alarm Chief Engineer Wang, and that there would be a result so quickly—a brand-new, three-wheeled motorcycle with a sidecar, manufactured by the Hongxing Factory itself, would soon be his "testing" vehicle!

"Director Li! Chief Engineer Wang! I... I, Xu Damao, assure you, leaders! I will cherish this test vehicle as if it were my own eyes! I will complete the test mission diligently and report the most truthful and detailed information! I will never let down the organization's trust!" Xu Damao was so excited that his face turned red, and he pounded his chest loudly.

"Don't just talk the talk," Li Huaide said sternly. "This is a serious political mission and an important technical test. Giving you the car is a sign of the organization's trust in you, and also a test. If any problems arise, you will be held solely responsible! Understand?"

"Understood! Completely understood!" Xu Damao stood at attention, his voice booming.

When Xu Damao first saw the motorcycle he was about to "test" with his own eyes, his breath caught in his throat for a few seconds. The military green paint gleamed with a calm sheen in the sunlight (although it was a test paint job, the craftsmanship was already quite impressive). The body lines were strong and solid, the sidecar's lines were smooth, and the connection between it and the main body appeared exceptionally sturdy. The wide tires, the robust exhaust pipe, the square headlights, and the shining red star emblem on the body all exuded an aura of solidity, reliability, and even a touch of ruggedness. This was far more imposing and practical than he had ever imagined, more impressive than any motorcycle he had ever seen in movies!

Under the guidance of experienced mechanics at the factory, Xu Damao spent half a day familiarizing himself with the vehicle's operation. Clutch, accelerator, brake, gears (four forward gears plus one reverse!), electric start button, sidecar linkage shifter... Although it was much more complex than a bicycle, Xu Damao was quick-witted and learned quickly, soon mastering the basic driving skills. When he successfully started the engine for the first time on the test track (the engine roared to life with a gentle press of the electric start button, a feeling that filled him with immense pride), and rode this "iron horse" smoothly, even trying reverse gear and easily backing the vehicle with the sidecar into a parking space, the feeling of control and uniqueness made him feel almost like he was flying.

"Awesome! This is the kind of bike a man should ride!" Xu Damao roared inwardly. He could almost imagine the commotion he would cause when he rode this bike back to No. 95 Courtyard. Sha Zhu? His beat-up Forever bicycle was nothing but a toy in front of this steel beast!

A few days later, on a clear autumn morning.

Xu Damao arrived at the factory early, carefully securing the projection equipment inside the sidecar (a special space and fixing buckles were designed under and behind the sidecar seat) and covering it with a waterproof cloth. He also attached four spare fuel cans filled with 30 liters of gasoline to the luggage rack added to the back of the sidecar (range was important for long-distance testing). He specially changed into a brand-new set of blue work clothes, put on sunglasses (a rare item that Xu Damao specially asked someone to buy from the Overseas Chinese Remittance Store) and a helmet, making him look energetic and with a deliberately crafted "stylish" and "imposing" air.

As he chugged out of the Red Star Factory gate on his military-green "steel monster"—a mysterious box (projector) in the sidecar and oil drums strapped to the back—the gatekeepers and passing workers cast astonished and envious glances his way. Xu Damao tried to maintain a serious expression, but his slightly raised chin and straight back betrayed his extreme arrogance.

Sure enough, as he sputtered into the alley where No. 95 Courtyard was located, the deep exhaust note immediately attracted countless eyes. Children screamed and chased after the car, while adults peeked out from the courtyards and houses.

"Hey! What kind of vehicle is that? It has three wheels!"

"It's a motorcycle! A motorcycle with a sidecar! How cool!"

"Look, isn't that Xu Damao from the backyard? He... why is he riding that thing?"

"Incredible! Has Xu Damao suddenly struck it rich?"

Xu Damao parked the car steadily outside the courtyard gate (the car was quite wide, making it a bit difficult to enter the courtyard). He deliberately let the engine idle for a while, enjoying the feeling of being the center of attention, before turning off the engine, removing the key, and gracefully stepping out of the car. Looking up, he saw Sha Zhu and He Yuzhu standing by the water trough in the middle courtyard, holding a basin of clothes, staring at him dumbfounded, along with the military green "steel mount" beside him, the basin almost tipping over in their hands.

Xu Damao felt incredibly pleased, even more so than eating an ice-cold watermelon on a sweltering summer day. He slowly removed his sunglasses, then casually wiped the handlebars and headlights with a clean, soft cloth. He glanced sideways at Sha Zhu and, in a voice just loud enough for everyone around to hear, said in a deliberately nonchalant tone, "Hey, Zhu, doing laundry? The weather's nice today, perfect for testing the factory's new test vehicle. We'll take it to the countryside to show movies to the villagers. This bike's powerful and exciting, though a bit fuel-inefficient. But for work, for publicity, it's worth it!"

He emphasized the words "test vehicle" and "newly equipped by the factory".

Sha Zhu stared wide-eyed at the motorcycle, its sharp lines gleaming in the sunlight, then at his own "Forever" brand bicycle, which, though gleaming, now seemed so flimsy and insignificant. His face flushed red and then paled. He stammered for a long time before finally managing to stammer, "Where...where did you get this? Is...is this even roadworthy? Did you steal it from the factory?"

"Steal?" Xu Damao raised his voice dramatically, as if he had heard the biggest joke in the world. "Comrade He Yuzhu, watch your words! This is an important testing task for the factory! It was personally approved by Deputy Factory Director Li and Chief Engineer Wang, and it's a serious task assigned to me, Xu Damao! See this?" He patted the projection equipment box covered with a canvas in the sidecar. "This is state property, a projector! I'm going to ride it to the most remote mountain villages and bring movies and the Party's voice to the beds of the poor and lower-middle peasants! Do you think this is like riding a bicycle to the market?"

He walked over to the motorcycle and patted the fuel tank affectionately: "This is a high-end motorcycle designed and manufactured by our own Hongxing Factory! See this electric start? It starts with just one press! See this sidecar? It can carry people and haul goods! See this reverse gear? It can back out even the narrowest alley! Can your two-wheeled one do that?" After saying that, he deliberately walked over to Sha Zhu's bicycle and lightly touched the wheel with his toe. "Zhu, I'm not saying this to criticize you, but what era are we living in? Still clinging to two wheels like they're precious? You need to keep up with the times! Focus more on improving your cooking skills and serving the workers well, instead of always watching others improve!"

"You... Xu Damao, stop showing off!" Sha Zhu was choked red-faced and couldn't find a word to retort. He angrily slammed the basin on the ground, splashing water everywhere. "So what if you ride a three-wheeled motorcycle? It burns gas, what a show-off! If you're so capable... don't come back!"

"Whether I come back or not, it's for work!" Xu Damao said smugly, putting his sunglasses back on, straddling his motorcycle, turning the key, and pressing the electric start button. "Buzz—Vroom!" The engine started smoothly and idled steadily. The smooth start and the sound drew gasps of amazement from those around him.

"Let's go! To serve the people!" Xu Damao waved his hand nonchalantly, shifted gears, released the clutch, and accelerated. The motorcycle emitted a deep roar and smoothly drove out of the alley, leaving Sha Zhu standing there glaring angrily, and a courtyard full of neighbors who were envious, surprised, and gossiping.

"That Xu Damao kid, he's really something! He managed to get his hands on such a big thing!"

"I heard it's some kind of testing mission, and the factory is taking it very seriously!"

"Tsk, looks like even movie projectionists need to upgrade their equipment!"

"Silly Zhu has been outdone this time!"

Hearing the faint whispers behind him, Xu Damao felt every pore on his body relax. The autumn wind brushed his face, his iron horse groaned beneath him, and the sidecar was loaded with "revolutionary weapons." He felt like the most majestic projectionist in all of Beijing, no, in the entire country! What a silly pig, what a broken bicycle—they would all be crushed under the wheels of history! He could almost see himself riding this bike, wherever he went, the streets would be deserted, and cadres and the masses would line the streets to welcome him.

Xu Damao's first destination was Qinjiacun Village in Hongxing Commune, about 60 li (approximately 30 kilometers) from downtown Beijing. This was the closest stop on his screening itinerary, with relatively simple road conditions, suitable for his first long-distance test. The road started as asphalt and was fairly flat, but shortly after leaving the city, it turned into a gravel road, and further on, a bumpy rural dirt road. The advantages of the motorcycle immediately became apparent. The wide tires and good shock absorption allowed the vehicle to maintain good stability and comfort on bumpy roads. The sidecar increased load capacity and stability, preventing it from skidding like a two-wheeled motorcycle, even on uneven surfaces. The 30-horsepower engine (optimized and tuned for low-end torque) provided ample power, making it effortless to pull heavy loads and climb hills. What Xu Damao was most satisfied with was the electric start. After each rest, a gentle press of the button instantly started the engine, eliminating the effort of kick-starting (especially when the engine was cold or stalled on a slope). The convenience and "premium" feel made him feel quite proud every time he operated it.

Along the way, this uniquely designed, military-green three-wheeled motorcycle, with a mysterious box in its sidecar, attracted the attention of countless passersby. At the commune's headquarters, he was even surrounded by curious onlookers, bombarded with questions. Xu Damao patiently explained again and again, "This is a Red Star brand three-wheeled motorcycle, made in our own country! I'm on a mission, going to the countryside to show movies to the villagers!" Whenever he saw the surprised and envious looks in their eyes, and heard exclamations like "Made in our own country?" and "That's amazing!", Xu Damao's vanity was greatly satisfied.

In the afternoon, Xu Damao finally saw the outline of Qin Family Village. Like many northern villages, Qin Family Village was surrounded by trees, with mud-brick houses mixed with brick houses. At the entrance of the village stood an old locust tree, under which some elderly people sat chatting. The roar of the motorcycle had already alerted the village. When Xu Damao rode this "iron thing" into the village, it immediately caused a sensation. Children screamed and gathered around, and adults also ran out of their houses and fields to see the novelty.

"Oh my god! What's that? A three-wheeled motorcycle?"

"It's for showing movies! Look in that sidecar, it's a movie box!"

"This car looks great! Which manufacturer is it from?"

"Comrade, who are you...?"

Xu Damao stopped the car, took off his sunglasses (a move he had practiced many times and thought looked very dashing), and said loudly, "Hello, fellow villagers! I'm Xu Damao, the projectionist from Hongxing Steel Rolling Mill! The higher-ups sent me to show you movies! To promote the good policies of rural collectivization and enrich your cultural life!"

Village officials, who had been notified beforehand, came to greet him. It was Qin, the production team leader of Qin Family Village, a dark-skinned, sturdy middle-aged man. Team Leader Qin warmly shook Xu Damao's hand: "Projectionist Xu! We've been waiting for you! You must be tired from the journey! This vehicle… is it new from your factory? It's really impressive!"

"These are newly developed three-wheeled motorcycles from our factory, still in the testing phase," Xu Damao introduced with a hint of pride. "The leadership specially approved them for me so we can go to the countryside and better serve everyone!"

"Great! That's wonderful! Quick, let's go to the team headquarters to rest and have a drink of water!" Captain Qin quickly led the way and called on a few young men to help unload the equipment.

Xu Damao received a warm welcome in Qinjiacun Village. Brigade and production team cadres took turns visiting him, offering tea, melon seeds, and even rare peanuts. Dinner was at the team headquarters; although there wasn't much meat or fish, the stewed cabbage with some cured meat and the unlimited flatbread made Xu Damao very content. He planned that after dark, once the movie started, he could give a presentation based on the film, and the mission would be a complete success, providing him with firsthand material for the test report.

Unbeknownst to him, a pair of clear, curious, and inquisitive eyes had been quietly following him from among the onlookers. It was Qin Jingru from Qin Family Village, one of the village's most beautiful girls, and the cousin of Qin Huairu, a steelworker in the city. Ever since her cousin married into the city, became a worker, and received a government-subsidized food ration, a seed had been planted in Qin Jingru's heart—she also wanted to go to the city, to live like her cousin, without having to toil in the fields all day, receiving a monthly salary, wearing clean clothes, and watching open-air movies. She looked down on all the young men in the village, always thinking them unsophisticated and ignorant.

Today, Xu Damao's arrival, especially his imposing three-wheeled motorcycle, his crisp work clothes, his sunglasses, and his "refined" manner (in Qin Jingru's eyes), coupled with his status as a "cadre" from a large factory in Beijing (projectionists were, in her eyes, cultured cadres), immediately captivated Qin Jingru. Hiding behind the crowd, she watched Xu Damao chat and laugh with the village cadres, watched him skillfully handle the "advanced" projection equipment, and listened to him recount his adventures in the city. Her own yearning to go to the city ignited like a wildfire fueled by oil.

"If only I could marry someone like that..." The thought popped into her head uncontrollably. Qin Jingru blushed, but her eyes shone even brighter.

The movie started on time at the threshing ground. It was "Li Shuangshuang," a comedy reflecting the new women and lifestyle in rural areas. Xu Damao's projection skills were impeccable; the image on the screen was clear, and the sound was loud. Before the screening, he gave his usual eloquent explanation, combining the themes of collectivization and mechanization (specifically mentioning the tractors and motorcycles of the Red Star Factory), engaging the audience well. Qin Jingru squeezed to the front of the crowd, her eyes frequently glancing at Xu Damao, who was busy at the projector. She found his focused work even more captivating than the male lead in the movie.

The movie ended when the moon was high in the sky. The villagers left reluctantly, but Qin Jingru lingered, being the last to leave. She saw Xu Damao and the villagers who had helped pack up the equipment. After hesitating for a moment, she mustered her courage, picked up a bowl of still-warm brown sugar water that she had been holding close to her chest, and went over.

"Xu...Xu projectionist, you've worked hard, please have some water." Qin Jingru's voice was barely audible, her face flushed in the moonlight.

Xu Damao was packing up his film canisters when he heard a sound and looked up. He saw a pretty, slender girl standing in front of him, wearing a floral blouse, with two long, shiny black braids, holding a bowl of water in her hands, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. He was stunned for a moment, then a thought struck him. In this rural area, there were still such beautiful girls?

"Oh, thank you, thank you, fellow villager!" Xu Damao took the bowl, his fingertips inadvertently brushing against Qin Jingru's hand, feeling her hand tremble slightly. He looked Qin Jingru up and down; although her clothes were rustic, they couldn't hide her youthful and beautiful face and figure, especially her eyes, which were clear yet held a hint of shyness and longing, completely different from the female employees or "lovers" he had met in the city before. They possessed a natural, unadorned allure.

"Comrade, what's your name...?" Xu Damao took a sip of water, which tasted sweet, and his tone became much gentler.

"I...I am Qin Jingru." Qin Jingru lowered her head and fiddled with the hem of her clothes. "My sister...my cousin is Qin Huairu. My brother-in-law works at the Hongxing Steel Rolling Mill in the city."

"Qin Huairu?" Xu Damao remembered. She seemed to be Jia Dongxu's wife from the fitter's workshop. She was pretty, but already a mother. "Oh, I know her, Jia Dongxu's wife! So you're her cousin! No wonder you look familiar." Xu Damao's smile became even more "friendly." So she was Qin Huairu's cousin. No wonder she was so beautiful.

"Projectionist Xu, your...your motorcycle is really impressive. Did your factory make it?" Qin Jingru found a topic to talk about, looked up, and her eyes shone with curiosity and admiration.

This hit Xu Damao where it hurt. He immediately became animated, talking about the motorcycle's performance, the factory's technology, and his "important mission," embellishing his story to portray himself as a figure deeply trusted by the leadership, possessing advanced technology, and shouldering a crucial responsibility. Qin Jingru listened intently, her eyes wide with admiration, frequently exclaiming, "Really?" "That's wonderful!" "You're amazing!" This greatly satisfied Xu Damao's vanity.

After a few conversations, the two started chatting. Xu Damao learned that Qin Jingru had only a primary school education (considered high education in the village), worked on the farm, and longed for city life. Qin Jingru, on the other hand, was even more convinced from Xu Damao's boasting that he was a capable and promising "city cadre." One was eager to climb the social ladder, and the other was interested in pursuing a romantic relationship; like dry wood meeting a blazing fire, they hit it off immediately.

Xu Damao had originally set up a makeshift bed in the brigade headquarters warehouse. Late at night, Qin Jingru, under the pretext of "being afraid that projectionist Xu would be cold at night, so I brought him a thick quilt," sneaked over. What followed was predictable. With Xu Damao half-heartedly resisting and Qin Jingru half-shyly and half-actively, the two crossed the final line on that simple wooden bed. To Xu Damao's surprise and secret delight, it turned out to be Qin Jingru's first time. This added a touch of smugness to his initial "just for fun" attitude, but also a hint of unease—in these days, getting involved with a young woman, especially a stubborn girl from the countryside, could lead to considerable trouble.

Afterwards, Qin Jingru nestled in Xu Damao's arms, sobbing and saying things like, "Brother Xu, I'm yours now, you can't betray me," and "I want to go to the city with you." Xu Damao gave her vague replies, but in his heart he was planning to leave as soon as it was light, and that he would avoid coming to Qin Family Village as much as possible in the future.

However, before Xu Damao could finish his dream, and before he could even put on his pants, the not-so-sturdy wooden door of the warehouse was kicked open from the outside with a loud bang!

The cold moonlight and the blinding beam of the flashlight shone in, illuminating the two naked figures on the bed. In the doorway stood three angry, livid men—Qin Jingru's father, Qin Laoshuan, and her two burly brothers!

"You son of a bitch! How dare you defile my daughter!" Old Qin roared, swinging his carrying pole at Xu Damao. His two sons pounced on him like wolves, raining blows on Xu Damao with their fists and feet.

"Ah! Don't hit me! Don't hit me! It's a misunderstanding! It's a misunderstanding!" Xu Damao was terrified, clutching his head and cowering on the bed, howling like a pig being slaughtered. Qin Jingru also screamed in fright, wrapping herself tightly in the blanket and trembling in the corner.

It turned out that a young man from Qin Family Village, who had always secretly loved Qin Jingru but had been repeatedly rejected, saw her delivering water to Xu Damao one night. Later, he saw her sneaking towards the warehouse, and becoming suspicious, he secretly followed her. Hearing the commotion inside, the young man was filled with jealousy and anger, and immediately ran to tell Qin Laoshuan. Qin Laoshuan was furious! His daughter, though longing to marry a city man, had slept with someone without any status or recognition. What would become of the Qin family's reputation? He immediately called his two sons, who rushed over angrily to "catch them in the act," intending to stop them before things escalated (as they thought), but they arrived "just in time" and caught them red-handed.

A beating (mainly by the two Qin brothers, with Qin Laoshuan pointing with a carrying pole) left Xu Damao bruised and swollen, crying and screaming for his parents. His sense of superiority as a city dweller and his airs as a projectionist had long since vanished, leaving him only able to kneel and beg for mercy.

"Uncle! Grandpa! Grandpa Qin! Stop hitting me! I was wrong! I was wrong, okay?!" Xu Damao covered his head, curled up on the ground, his face covered in snot and tears.

"Wrong? One 'wrong' and that's it?" Old Qin, panting heavily, shone his flashlight on Xu Damao's disheveled face. "Xu! Tell me! What are we going to do about this?"

"I...I'll pay! I'll pay, okay?" Xu Damao cried, his face contorted with grief.

"Pay up? My daughter was a perfectly innocent young woman, and you ruined her like that. Can money compensate for that?" Old Qin spat. "I'm telling you, you have two options! First, go to the police right now and report you for indecent assault and rape! You can expect to be shot!"

"No! Don't call the police!" Xu Damao was terrified. In this day and age, hooliganism is a serious crime, especially when it involves unmarried young women in rural areas. They might really get into trouble.

"Secondly," Qin Laoshuan stared at him, his eyes like knives, "marry my daughter! A proper marriage! According to your city customs, with all the proper betrothal gifts and formalities, bring her into the city in a grand and honorable manner!"

"Huh?" Xu Damao was dumbfounded. Marry Qin Jingru? He had never even considered it! Although he was attracted to Qin Jingru's youth and beauty, and it was her first time, in his mind, a country girl was fine to play around with, but to really marry her? He, Xu Damao, was a projectionist at the Red Star Film Factory, a respectable person (in his own eyes), and he was destined to marry a city girl, or even the daughter of a cadre! How could he marry a village girl?

"I...I..." Xu Damao stammered, unwilling to agree.

Seeing his hesitation, Qin Laoshuan's face darkened, and he waved to his two sons: "Eldest son, second son, tie him up and take him to the commune police station tonight! Tell them you've caught a hooligan!"

"No! Don't tie me up! I... I agree! I agree, okay?!" Xu Damao completely broke down. Report to the police? That would ruin his life! He'd lose his job, his reputation would be ruined, and he might even go to jail or be shot! In comparison, marrying a village girl, although it would be embarrassing, at least he could keep his job and his freedom. As long as he's alive, he can always find another way... He'd better just get through this for now!

"Agree? Words alone are no proof!" Old Qin, a shrewd old farmer, said, "Bring me paper and pen! Let's write it down! Write down your name, workplace, and home address! It will state that you voluntarily agree to marry my daughter, Qin Jingru, and that you will go back and prepare for the wedding, present the betrothal gifts within a month, and marry her within six months! If you go back on your word, this will be evidence of your rape. Our Qin family will risk everything to report you to your factory and the police!"

Xu Damao was inwardly groaning, but under the watchful eyes of the Qin family father and sons, as well as several uncles who had rushed over and blocked the door (Qin Laoshuan had long been wary of him going back on his word and had called witnesses), he had no choice but to tremble as he took the pen and paper and, in the dim light, wrote down the words "I voluntarily marry Qin Jingru as my wife..." and pressed his bright red fingerprint on it.

Holding the document with his fingerprint on it, Qin Laoshuan's expression softened slightly, but his tone remained firm: "Xu Damao, I'll keep the document. If you know what's good for you, go back and prepare. If you dare to play tricks, hmph, you know the consequences! Jingru, put on your clothes and come home with me!" After saying that, he glared fiercely at his still sobbing daughter.

After Qin Jingru finished dressing, her father and brother took her away. Before leaving, she looked back at Xu Damao with a complex expression, a mixture of shame, fear, and a hint of hope that her wish had come true.

Inside the warehouse, only Xu Damao remained, his face bruised and swollen, his clothes disheveled, and his spirit broken. Looking at his torn clothes on the ground, touching his burning cheeks and the bruises on his body, and thinking of that damned document, he felt like crying. It was all over, completely ruined! He had only wanted to show off his motorcycle and maybe have a fling, but he hadn't expected to get into such a huge mess! Marry Qin Jingru? He absolutely refused! But if he didn't marry her? That document, that Qin family father and son… Xu Damao shuddered.

Outside the window, the sky was beginning to lighten. A few roosters crowed in the distance. Xu Damao struggled to his feet, ignoring the pain all over his body, and hastily threw on some clothes. He had to get out of this hellhole immediately! As for the future… he'd just have to wait and see. He'd go back first, maybe… maybe he could figure out some way to get by?

He tiptoed out of the warehouse. Fortunately, the Qin father and son seemed confident that he could escape with the written agreement and hadn't left anyone to guard him. He ran to the threshing ground in a disheveled state, started his motorcycle (his hands were still shaking, and it took two tries to start), and without even checking if the equipment was properly secured, he frantically sped out of Qin Family Village, heading towards Beijing. The high spirits and swagger he had displayed when he arrived were completely gone, replaced only by overwhelming fear, regret, and the pain on his face and body, a stark reminder of the absurdity and crisis of the previous night.

Autumn winds swept across the fields, bringing a chill. The military-green "Red Star-Guardian" motorcycle still chugged along the dirt road, but the rider's mood was completely different from when he arrived. Xu Damao's "test journey," barely begun, was already shrouded in a heavy shadow. Meanwhile, in Qin Family Village, Qin Laoshuan stroked the still-wet ink on the document, while Qin Jingru combed her hair in front of the mirror, her eyes gleaming. A storm, woven from desire, vanity, scheming, and the urban-rural divide, was quietly brewing, about to sweep in.