A documentary-style novel about the Republic of China
Set in Chongqing, this documentary-style novel follows Zhou Xicheng, a commander in the Mixed Brigade of the National Protection Army (Guizhou Army). Its story revolves around the tangled grudges and passions sparked by a boatload of smuggled goods.
On June 6, 1916, Chen Huan, the Sichuan military governor, declared independence. Yuan Shikai was so enraged and distressed that he suddenly died on his "dragon bed." The Beiyang Army split into the Zhili, Anhui, and Fengtian factions, which controlled the central government and schemed against one another, sharpening their knives for battle. At the time, Li Yuanhong was promoted to president, while Duan Qirui became premier.
In late June, the Beijing government appointed Cai E Sichuan's military governor and provincial governor. Cai E led Yunnan troops into Sichuan.
