Old Tianjin was unique, as were its people, language, way of life, culture, customs, etiquette, and values. This novel brings together the Chinese Communist underground, armed groups in the mountains, Kuomintang Central Bureau of Investigation agents, Military Statistics Bureau agents, the last emperor Puyi, living in retirement in Tianjin after his abdication, holdovers from the Qing dynasty, warlords, police detectives, secret agents, members of the Anqing Gang, respected members of society, patriotic monks, writers and artists, merchants and ordinary people, Japanese military police, Special Higher Police agents, investigation squads, Yuan's puppet troops, garrison forces, and many more. It brings their distinctive traits and complex humanity to life through gripping stories, twists and turns, and their hasty yet ingenious responses to sudden events. Above all, changes in the times and in each successive period transform the nature and methods of their struggles, creating a sense of constant uncertainty and dramatic ups and downs. Beyond underground and armed resistance, the novel also explores little-known financial, trade, and cultural warfare, offering a fresh perspective.
