Courtyard House: I Have Countless Bodyguards

Liu Jianguo paused briefly, as if organizing his thoughts, before giving a clear and calm report to his supervisor:

"Boss, here's what happened."

As you know, I had previously maintained some private contact with Comrade Zhou Weiguo, who is now active in Laos, due to work-related reasons.

During this trip abroad, through him, I indirectly came into contact with an international organization called the "Eight-Party Alliance."

He observed the leader's reaction, and seeing that the leader was focused, he continued:

"This 'Eight Directions Alliance' has not been around for long, but it has a strong momentum. It mainly integrates various local forces and resources in Southeast Asia and even a wider area, and its power should not be underestimated."

According to my latest understanding, this alliance has recently successfully recruited the Cavendish family, a highly influential hereditary earldom in Britain.

He paused, then presented one of the core findings of his report:

"I judged that this was an opportunity."

Therefore, through Comrade Zhou Weiguo and the "Eight-Party Alliance," I established direct contact with Count Cavendish.

After several rounds of consultations, we have reached a preliminary agreement on a series of trade cooperation intentions.

Through them, we can export some of our specialty products and raw materials to the British and even European markets, while also importing some urgently needed precision equipment, technical data, and even special materials that are difficult to obtain through normal channels.

If handled properly, it can earn a considerable amount of foreign exchange for the country and also solve some urgent technical problems.

Regarding the specific trade framework and the initial order, I have already arranged for the relevant departments to begin coordination, using the "Comprehensive Planning Department" channel to ensure confidentiality and flexible operation.

He packaged his cooperation with the Cavendish family as a foreign trade and economic activity that was facilitated by Zhou Weiguo and the Eight-Party Alliance to seek benefits for the country. He claimed it was reasonable and highlighted the country's interests, such as earning foreign exchange and acquiring urgently needed supplies.

The leader listened attentively, tapped his fingers lightly on the sofa armrest a few times, and said with an approving expression:

"Good, good, Comrade Jianguo!"

Your message is very important, and this channel was established very timely!

He had clearly heard of the Eight-Party Alliance, and may even have been following it through other intelligence channels.

"This alliance of eight parties rose up very quickly and acts in a rather secretive manner. We do indeed lack direct and effective channels of communication."

They were able to stir up trouble in Southeast Asia, and now they've extended their reach to the old European aristocracy. Their background and intentions require careful study and a cautious approach.

The leader leaned forward slightly, his eyes filled with encouragement and inquiry, and said:

"It is very rare and very valuable that you were able to establish such a direct communication and even cooperation channel through the General Bureau of Secrecy!"

Maintaining this friendly and pragmatic relationship could play an unexpected role in helping us understand the external situation, expand our international activities, and even break through certain blockades.

but……"

The leader then changed the subject, becoming more cautious in his tone, and continued:

"These kinds of organizations usually don't show goodwill without a reason."

They proactively contacted us and were willing to provide trade facilitation. Did they propose any additional conditions, or require any cooperation or contribution from us?

At the opportune moment, Liu Jianguo's face revealed a hint of admiration, as if to say, "As expected, you can't hide it from your superiors," along with a perfectly timed hesitation. He carefully chose his words and said:

"The leader is discerning and perceptive."

They...did make a request.

Because the matter was of great importance, I did not agree on the spot, but said that I needed to come back to ask for instructions and report.

But I can assure you that this requirement is separate from the trade cooperation we have reached and will not affect the conduct of trade.

The leader nodded, indicating that he could speak freely, and said:

"oh?

What kind of request is it that even you don't dare to make a decision on the spot?

Tell me your thoughts, let's analyze it together.

Liu Jianguo took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind, and said clearly:

"The 'Eight-Party Alliance' has revealed that Zhou Weiguo's forces, which they support in Laos, may be planning a major military operation soon, with the goal of... completely unifying the entire territory of Laos."

He paused briefly to allow the information to process before continuing:

"Their demand is that once Zhou Weiguo successfully establishes an effective national government, the 'Eight-Party Alliance' hopes that China can take the lead in formally recognizing Zhou Weiguo's regime diplomatically and establish ambassadorial-level diplomatic relations with it."

Their reasoning was that Zhou Weiguo would be the first force under the "Eight-Party Alliance" to successfully establish a sovereign state, which would be of landmark significance.

They hope to gain recognition from a major power to establish the legal basis of their regime and counter pressure for potential external interference.

A brief silence fell over the office.

The leader did not answer immediately. Instead, he picked up a cigarette from the coffee table, handed one to Liu Jianguo, lit one for himself, took a deep drag, and let the pale blue smoke rise slowly, as if sorting out his complicated thoughts.

After a long while, he slowly spoke, his voice steady and carrying the weight of history:

"I know this comrade Zhou Weiguo."

It's no easy feat for him to carve out a niche for himself in a place like Laos.

The leader's tone carried a hint of emotion, but more so the calm of a politician weighing the pros and cons.

"What's even more remarkable is..."

The leader continued, his gaze becoming profound, and said:

"When our country was facing difficulties in previous years, he did express goodwill through some channels and provided some assistance within his capacity."

The exact amount of help provided is another matter, but we will remember this act of kindness and generosity in their time of need.

He flicked off his cigarette ash and changed the subject, saying:

"Now, he may unify Laos... If he can do it, it will be a major change in Southeast Asian geopolitics."

The "Eight-Party Alliance" wants us to acknowledge... This request itself is not unexpected.

For a newly established regime, especially one that may have historical ties and a foundation of goodwill with us, gaining recognition is crucial for its establishment.

The leader took another drag of his cigarette, and finally made his statement, speaking in a cautious and clear tone:

"From my personal perspective, if Comrade Zhou Weiguo can truly unify Laos and establish a stable and friendly regime towards China, then recognizing it and establishing diplomatic relations with it would be in our national interest and would also help break the encirclement of us by certain forces in Southeast Asia."

This... is something that can be considered, and should even be actively promoted.