Ch 69: Bringing a Farming Game System to the 1970s

Yu Xiang’an and Lin Chuanbai weren’t frequent visitors to Qin city, having last returned during the summer break. This was a place they had lived for two years and had grown familiar with. Before heading to the machinery factory’s family compound, they wandered around the nearby area.

Previously, there had been people secretly selling goods in hushed tones. At the sound of footsteps, they would quickly pack up and pretend to be passersby. Now, to Yu Xiang’an’s surprise, small stalls had been openly set up in corners.

Excited by the change, she decided to shop. With the New Year approaching, prices were higher, but certain things had to be bought.

Yu Xiang’an purchased two chickens, a five-pound goose, and a small bundle of crisp, fresh bok choy.

At this time of year, fresh vegetables were expensive. Aside from radishes, potatoes, and cabbage, it was rare to find anything else. The bundle of bok choy, barely a pound, cost 50 cents—a stark contrast to the usual abundance when a penny could buy a whole lot. Supply and demand dictated its worth.

Although she had plenty of vegetables stored in her warehouse, she chose to make purchases openly to avoid suspicion. She bought a large quantity of items, with Lin Chuanbai acting as her “porter.” Once they had almost everything, she sent Lin Chuanbai back to deliver the goods while she went to buy seasonings.

These seasonings could only be found at the grocery store.

Just like in the capital, the grocery store’s counters selling fresh produce and eggs were less busy now, but other sections remained bustling, especially with the year-end rush. In addition to seasonings, Yu Xiang’an impulsively bought two pounds of freshly baked jujube cake. She hadn’t planned on it, but the tempting aroma swayed her. Making such treats herself would take too much time, so it seemed easier to buy some to enjoy right away.

When Yu Xiang’an returned home, Lin Duzhong had already arrived and was playing chess with Lin Yihong.

Though only five years old, Lin Yihong had a good grasp of the rules. He could play chess, albeit poorly, but for his age, his ability was impressive. His calm demeanor allowed him to sit still and focus—a rarity in young children.

Lin Yining, on the other hand, was more restless. Though Lin Chuanbai had taught her chess, she couldn’t sit still long enough to enjoy it. Instead, she was curled up on a chair, engrossed in a picture book. Meanwhile, Lin Tiandong and Zhang Ying were busy with their homework.

The two boys had started their winter break but were also attending extracurricular and remedial classes. Zhang Ying, who struggled with his studies, had been enrolled in remedial courses, while Lin Tiandong, an excellent student, was in an advanced program.

“Grandpa,” Yu Xiang’an called out.

Lin Duzhong looked up. “Xiao An, you’re back?”

“Yes. On my way, I happened to come across freshly baked jujube cake. Everyone, come and try some.”

Hearing the mention of food, Lin Yining immediately looked up from her picture book. Torn between her curiosity and her book, she finally grabbed the book and ran over to Yu Xiang’an. “Mom, I want some!”

Yu Xiang’an cut two pieces for her. “Put your book down first and take these to your great-grandfather.”

Lin Yining reluctantly put her book aside and ran off to deliver the cake.

Meanwhile, Lin Yihong was deeply focused on the chessboard, his face serious as he contemplated his next move. Yu Xiang’an called his name, but he didn’t respond.

Not minding, she cut two more pieces for Zhang Ying and Lin Tiandong. “How long have you been working? Take a break and have some.”

Lin Chuanbai walked over and grabbed a piece for himself, taking a bite. “It’s good, but not as good as yours.”

Yu Xiang’an chuckled. “It’s not bad, though. Are you hungry? I’ll start dinner now.”

Unlike Lin Yihong’s seriousness, Lin Duzhong was entirely relaxed. Hearing that Yu Xiang’an was preparing dinner, he chimed in, “It’s been a while since I’ve had your cooking. I remember buying ribs today—let’s have sweet and sour ribs.”

“Sure. I also bought two chickens. Would you prefer steamed or braised?”

One of the chickens had already been cleaned and plucked, ready for cooking.

“Let’s make chicken soup today.”

As Yu Xiang’an busied herself in the kitchen, Li Yujiao returned home. Before even entering, she could smell the delicious aroma wafting from the house and immediately knew who was responsible.

A neighbor stopped her outside and teased, “Your second son’s family is back. You’re in for a treat.”

Li Yujiao smiled. “I know—they should’ve arrived by now, according to their letter.”

She knew this was a kind reminder.

Not long after, Lin Houpin returned. He looked much the same as before, but upon seeing the four of them at home, his expression softened significantly. “How many days will you be staying this time?”

“Eight days,” Lin Chuanbai replied. “We’ll leave a week before the New Year ends to return and continue assisting my teacher.”

Lin Houpin nodded. “That’s the right thing to do. Remember to prepare some gifts to bring back.”

“Understood.”

The father and son started chatting while Yu Xiang’an brought out the dishes. “Dinner is ready! Have you washed your hands?”

Seeing the table full of dishes, Lin Houpin nodded with satisfaction, but he also knew that most of the ingredients weren’t from the household. Likely, they were bought by his second son and daughter-in-law.

He resolved to reimburse them later.

Lin Houpin wasn’t unaware of their discreet side businesses, but they managed it well. Having some spare cash on hand was a good thing. Lin Chuanbai, though reserved and not fond of socializing, could remain patient when necessary.

Since Lin Tiandong was still young, Lin Chuanbai had to step up and take charge, especially during the busy New Year season. With so many visitors, it wouldn’t be proper to let a child handle them alone.

Lin Chuanbai and Yu Xiang’an didn’t have much presence in the mechanical factory’s social circles since they rarely mingled or wandered around. However, in the eyes of the leadership, they were anything but low-profile.

Lin Chuanbai, the son of the factory director, had once been dismissed as “unambitious” for working as a pharmacy assistant. After he got into university, though, people couldn’t help but look at him differently.

Even if the factory director wanted to arrange a position for him, it wouldn’t have been too high initially. Promotions would have required time and effort. Now, however, things were different. Once he graduated, no shortage of excellent job offers awaited him—without his father needing to intervene.

He was the epitome of the “ideal child.”

The happiest ones were, of course, the twins.

Here, no one dared bully them. They could play whatever they wanted and received endless praise from everyone around. Their confidence soared to the heavens.

Yu Xiang’an couldn’t help but sigh.

“It’s not the custom to discipline children during the New Year, but if they don’t settle down afterward, they’ll be asking for it.”

---

After the New Year came 1979, a year that seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. By year’s end, the government had designated two coastal cities as pilot economic special zones.

Yu Xiang’an and Lin Chuanbai studied the news in the newspaper for a long time. This marked a pivotal moment in history.

That year, waves of returning educated youth flooded the cities. Despite efforts by government officials to find work for them, there simply weren’t enough positions.

Some disregarded societal judgment and took it upon themselves to make a living. Others resorted to petty theft and other unlawful activities.

Their home, being a stand-alone house, inevitably attracted attention. Such housing typically indicated a family of means. One day, someone was caught scouting the property, and Lin Chuanbai immediately reported it to Zhao Li.

Zhao Li dispatched two patrol officers to make rounds in the area. After a few visits, those suspicious individuals stopped showing up.

When Yu Xiang’an learned about this, she felt a lingering sense of unease.

Their household had only one adult man—hardly a secure situation if someone were to target them seriously.

After some thought, Yu Xiang’an suggested, “We should get a dog to guard the house.”

The puppy was brought home by Yu Xiangyan. Completely black except for a white spot on its forehead, Yu Xiang’an named it Bai Mei (White Brow). The twins were overjoyed with the new addition. Though the puppy was still small, they already called it General Bai Mei, placing great expectations on its future.

Yu Xiang’an gave her encouragement.

Her second brother, Yu Xiangyan, came to talk about his job.

He had been admitted to a specialized college for mathematics. After this semester, he would begin an internship next term. His job placement was pre-assigned, but there was some flexibility if multiple organizations extended offers.

Initially, he had wanted to change his major but found it impossible, so he had no choice but to persevere.

Yu Xiangyan wasn’t particularly talented in mathematics, and his grades were average, but his interpersonal skills made him well-liked. He had already decided to join the Ministry of Foreign Trade.

With diplomatic relations restored with the U.S. this year, his foreign language skills and mathematics background made him a strong candidate. The Ministry extended an olive branch, and he accepted.

The job came with a two-bedroom apartment, which would be officially transferred to his name after two years of employment. His salary was at the cadre level, with additional allowances.

Yu Xiang’an gave him a thumbs-up. “Impressive!”

Yu Xiangyan admitted nervously, “Some classmates were hesitant to join because of past overseas connections. Everyone kept such things hidden to avoid trouble. Now, we’ll be working directly with foreign entities. I researched newspapers and consulted teachers for a long time before deciding. Even if policies change, I don’t think we’ll be implicated too harshly. If the policies remain stable, we’ll have more opportunities as part of the first batch.”

Yu Xiang’an agreed. “Our country won’t keep its borders closed forever. Second Brother, I support your decision.”

Hearing her reassurance, Yu Xiangyan finally relaxed.

There’s an old saying: Men fear choosing the wrong career; women fear marrying the wrong man. Choosing the right path is crucial.

“Xiao An, are you going home for the New Year this year?”

“No, not this year.”

“I am,” he replied. “I plan to bring my kids back here. Xi Yi is seven now, and she’ll need time to adjust before starting elementary school.”

“Bringing them over is the best decision. I’ll be staying in Qin City this year, so take some things back for me.”

“Of course. By the way, there’s good news from my in-laws: the Wen family’s property has started being returned in parts, and everything’s looking better now.” He smiled.

A few months earlier, many people had their reputations restored, including Wen Yanjun. He had been released from the Nanxi Farm and, after a period of observation, was officially cleared of wrongdoing.

However, not everything could be returned. Many assets had disappeared over the years. Real estate remained, but recovering even a third of the other possessions was considered fortunate.

“Did he get his old position back?” Wen Yanjun had been part of Baishi County’s leadership team.

Yu Xiangyan shook his head. “Every position is filled, one for each role. There’s no room for restoration.”

“That makes sense.”

The siblings didn’t chat for long since they were both busy.

In the midst of their busyness, time flew by. Yu Xiang’an continued her intense studies, taking note of the capital’s gradual transformations whenever she had the chance to explore outside campus.

The changes in the capital sparked her curiosity about the progress in the Special Economic Zones.

When will I be able to visit?

She counted the days—not long now.

After the New Year, Yu Xiangyan and Wen Ruzhen brought their children to the capital.

With her course load, Wen Ruzhen stayed in the dorms most of the time, reuniting with the family in Yu Xiangyan’s apartment on weekends. She had long wanted her kids nearby, but their previous housing and financial situation made it impossible.

Now that her husband had a stable salary and access to a company-run elementary school and daycare, life had become manageable.

Back in Baishi County, many people had their reputations restored. In the capital, even more properties were returned, leading to an influx of real estate on the market.

Yu Xiang’an couldn’t resist the chance to buy a historic single-story home in a prime location for a bargain price. The money was technically available, but not all of it could be openly accounted for.

The central courtyard houses she coveted were out of reach, but securing a modest 100-square-meter property at this stage was a great opportunity.

Her eventual goal was to establish a business after graduation, capitalizing on the growing acceptance of private enterprises.

By May 1980, the Premier publicly supported contract farming, providing reassurance to those already practicing it. Work enthusiasm surged in response.

Mid-year, Yu Mancheng secretly called Yu Xiang’an. “Sister Xiao An, we’re close to the Special Economic Zones. I want to take a chance there. I don’t want to spend my life in the village, following the same predictable routine. Do you think I’m being unrealistic? What would you do if you were me?”

Yu Xiang’an’s answer was clear. If he wasn’t content with his current stable but monotonous life, he should absolutely take the leap into the Special Economic Zones. At this time, it was easier than ever to make a name for oneself.

So she said, “If I hadn’t gotten into college, I would’ve gone to the Special Economic Zone to start a business. You know my cooking skills. No matter where you are, as long as the food is good and reasonably priced, it’ll work. But what about you? If you’re planning to go, have you thought about how you’ll support yourself? Think it through before you act. Also, when you travel, go with a few friends so you can look out for each other. Make sure to carry enough money, but don’t keep it all in one place. There are pickpockets out there. And don’t leave without explaining it to your family. Leaving without a word would be heartless.”

Yu Mancheng had found the answer he was looking for. “I understand, thank you, Sister Xiao An. I’ll think it through carefully.”

Yu Xiang’an added, “The Special Economic Zones are still developing, and many industries need people. If you have some money, take your time to observe and consider what you want and can do. You know my number—if anything comes up, call me.”

Two months later, she received a telegram from Yu Mancheng. He and a few childhood friends from Red Star Brigade had packed their belongings and left.

He sent another telegram after arriving, reassuring her not to worry.

Yu Xiang’an smiled.

The tides of the era were rising, creating opportunities for many future tycoons and influential figures to emerge.

She had thought she was the only one in the Yu family with entrepreneurial ambitions, but it turned out she had a like-minded cousin.

When Lin Chuanbai heard the news, he smiled as well. “That’s good. Going out to explore the world is something he won’t regret.”

After a moment’s pause, Lin Chuanbai added, “My professor spoke to me today and asked if I’d consider pursuing a graduate degree.”

Yu Xiang’an asked, “Do you want to?”

Lin Chuanbai nodded honestly. “There’s still so much I haven’t learned. If I pursue graduate studies, I’d stay under his mentorship.”

Yu Xiang’an decisively said, “Then do it!”

Lin Chuanbai asked, “What about you?”

“I’m not going to continue. I’ll follow the assigned internship, then find an opportunity to resign.” Yu Xiang’an had no interest in further education—she was eager to take action and make her mark in the world.

By this time, many people had already started forming vague ideas about their future.

Liu Mingyue, for example, had her husband transferred to the capital at the beginning of the year. Naturally, she didn’t want to leave the city. She was already in discussions with government departments, state-owned enterprises, and major factories about potential opportunities.

She leaned toward working in a government department.

She asked Yu Xiang’an, “Where do you want to go?”

Hearing her question, the surrounding classmates all perked up their ears.

Yu Xiang’an rubbed her nose and replied, “I’m leaning toward a government department as well.”

Ke Manyun didn’t quite understand and muttered softly, “Why do you all want to go into government? I’d prefer a big factory. The benefits and perks are really good there.”

Liu Mingyue didn’t catch what she said. “Huh? What did you say?”

Ke Manyun quickly shook her head and raised her voice a little. “N-nothing.”

Liu Mingyue nodded and then asked Ke Keke behind her, “Are you going back to Shanghai?”

Ke Keke was silent for a long while before answering, “It’s not really up to us, is it? Ultimately, it depends on the assignments. We’ll see when the time comes.”

Her response was ambiguous.

---

In the first semester of their senior year, Wu Zhusheng approached Yu Xiang’an.

“Do you have any thoughts about your future? Your outstanding performance hasn’t gone unnoticed. You’re a talent, and talented people are always in high demand. Several parties have already expressed interest in you. I wanted to ask what your plans are.”

Wu Zhusheng was very satisfied with this deputy class monitor.

Her grades were consistently at the top of the class, and she worked well with the class leader to maintain excellent relationships among her classmates, making his job much easier.

On top of that, she had published several articles in the campus newspaper, bringing recognition to their class and giving him a reason to feel proud.

Yu Xiang’an asked, “Can you tell me who’s interested?”

“One is a steel factory in the northeast. They’re looking to increase exports and are offering you a management position with a spacious three-bedroom apartment.”

“Another is a nearby city that wants you to help boost their local economy. They’ve promised an immediate allocation of a single-person dormitory and priority for future housing assignments.”

“The last one,” he chuckled, “is the Ministry of Commerce, as an assistant. They’re offering a single-person dormitory but haven’t made any guarantees about long-term housing.”

When Yu Xiang’an heard about the last one, she immediately gasped.

Even though she knew university graduates were highly sought after during this time, she hadn’t imagined opportunities this good would be so readily available.

After thinking about it, though, it wasn’t entirely surprising. Wu Zhusheng was not only their teacher and homeroom advisor but also an expert in economics and a consultant often sought out during this period of reform and opening up.

Yu Xiang’an took a deep breath to calm herself.

Although she wasn’t fond of the rigid structure of government jobs, she couldn’t deny the appeal of experiencing life at the center of it all.

“The Ministry of Commerce!”

If she chose this path, she knew it would mean giving up many things, including using the secret space she and Lin Chuanbai relied on.

This was an absolute secret that couldn’t be exposed.

She planned to discuss it with Lin Chuanbai later and decided they should stop using the space for the time being, just to be safe.

They had accumulated enough money to comfortably buy most of what they needed, and the produce from her farm could simply be stored in the warehouse for now.

Once she finished her internship and resigned, she could deal with it then.

Yu Xiang’an felt fortunate they had always been cautious. Their disguises, frequent changes of location, and avoidance of fixed patterns had ensured no one could easily connect their street vendor activities to their status as prized university students.

Thanks to their careful planning, there were no rumors or suspicions surrounding them.

If discovered, Yu Xiang’an thought, it wouldn’t technically be illegal. But if someone were to investigate thoroughly and trace the source of their goods, things could go very wrong.

At Qingmu University, some students were selected from the worker-peasant-soldier program, nominated by their communities. The benefits and opportunities offered to them weren’t as generous as those given to students who had passed the entrance exams.

The reason was simple: while their political background was solid, their professional competence varied widely. Some were capable, while others were entirely unqualified. In contrast, those admitted through rigorous exams were all exceptionally talented.

Once her decision was made, Yu Xiang’an only shared it with Lin Chuanbai, keeping it from everyone else.

When Lin Chuanbai heard about her choice, he smiled and said, “This is a good path. We’ve studied this period of history, and with your professional background, suggesting some forward-thinking ideas won’t raise suspicions. Even if they aren’t adopted, at least you could offer a warning and contribute to the country’s progress. But have you thought this through? Are you sure you want to resign and venture into business later? Opportunities like this don’t come often.”

Yu Xiang’an gave a bitter laugh. “Of course I know that. But I also know my own limits. My insights are largely borrowed from standing on the shoulders of giants. Most of the ideas I’ll suggest aren’t mine. And I don’t have the ambition for this path. In this field, income is transparent. But what about the items we’ve hidden in the space? Are they just going to sit there forever? Imagine others flaunting their wealth while we restrain ourselves. That’s one thing. But what if there’s a freshly caught bluefin tuna in front of me, and I can’t touch it because of the price tag? That’s torture!”

She exhaled deeply, continuing, “Yes, I can propose some ‘forward-looking’ ideas. Once things settle down, I’ll resign.

“In the early days of reform, the capital is still pretty conservative. I can take it slow. I’ve read about the struggles of the first privately-owned restaurant here. The neighbors constantly watched them, and one misstep meant being reported. It was nerve-wracking. I’ll wait until the atmosphere is more relaxed before stepping into the market. I want to make money, but I don’t want to suffer unnecessary hardship.”

Lin Chuanbai supported whichever path she chose, as he had no particular attachment to politics or power. If he did, his background would’ve made climbing the ladder easy. Instead, he chose medicine.

However, if Yu Xiang’an pursued this path, their space and the treasures within it would have to remain untouched.

Lin Chuanbai admired her restraint. The temptation was no small thing. Properly leveraged, it could lead to historic achievements.

Yu Xiang’an clenched her fist. “I don’t need that to make a name for myself in history. Even if it sounds ridiculous now, our advantages are enormous, and we won’t lack income. Later, we can donate more to charity or create a national version of the Nobel Prize. Do you think history won’t remember us then?”

She gave him a knowing look. “Neither of us likes scheming and power plays. It’s fine for a short time, but in the long run, it’s soul-draining. Remember that turning point in medicine? If you develop a miracle drug for some incurable disease, wouldn’t that earn you a place in history too?”

Lin Chuanbai fell silent, but his heart stirred.

The idea of making a political mark didn’t excite him. But the thought of developing a groundbreaking medication and leaving a legacy in medicine ignited a fire within him.

They were indeed a perfect match. If one of them had been power-hungry, they wouldn’t have reached this decision.

---

In their class, the hottest topic was their future careers.

Unsurprisingly, factories offered the best benefits. With strong financial backing, they didn’t hesitate to invest in talent.

Many classmates, having endured hard times, were drawn to these lucrative benefits.

Lin Chuanbai also received several offers, but he declined them all, having already decided to pursue graduate studies.

When the final assignment list came out, Wang Haiwen, Yu Xiang’an, and Liu Mingyue were sent to the same department. Ke Manyun went to a pharmaceutical factory, and Ke Keke to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Yu Xiang’an had thought Ke Keke would return to Shanghai, but she stayed in the capital—and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, no less?

She had hidden her plans deeply.

Yu Xiang’an was already firmly rooted in the Ministry of Foreign Trade, and Wen Ruzhen’s job was now secured as well. She stayed at the university as a teaching assistant while pursuing her graduate studies.

With two salaries, supporting themselves and their three children was no longer a concern. Their expenses were minimal.

The biggest surprise was Wen Yizhen. He chose to go to a grassroots position in the western region. Although his status as a university graduate meant he wouldn’t be in the most basic role, it still meant hardship. However, this was a classic path for those pursuing a political career.

It was his own choice, and all they could do as outsiders was offer their blessings.

With economic reform and opening up in full swing, highly educated individuals like them were in high demand. When Yu Xiang’an, Wang Haiwen, and Liu Mingyue started their internships, they were treated with respect. Their supervisors didn’t sideline them as inexperienced graduates or assign them menial tasks. Instead, they were often included in field inspections and even invited to attend meetings. Afterward, their input and suggestions were actively sought.

This approach of “crossing the river by feeling the stones” required collective wisdom, encouraging everyone to contribute their ideas.

Such openness allowed Yu Xiang’an to present her views naturally and without hesitation.

She was from the future—an era that had successfully followed this path of reform and opening up, resulting in economic prosperity and global recognition.

Among the many debates between reformists and conservatives, Yu Xiang’an was a staunch reformist. Her innovative ideas consistently left a strong impression, quickly making her stand out among the three interns.

🌱🌿 🫧🍃