In the outer reaches of the Great Li capital, lay the tranquil Old Oriole Lake, destined to be immortalized in the annals of history by the pens of future scholars.

The Earthly Branch lineage had been the first to return to this place. Song Xu journeyed to the Imperial Study, briefly explaining to the Emperor the unfolding celestial event, though he confessed his understanding was but a glimpse, hampered by his limited cultivation.

The true nature of things remained shrouded, known only to the Imperial Preceptor, Chen. Yet, His Majesty, with a knowing smile, declared, “I am, of course, curious about the strange occurrences atop mountains and in the heavens. However, I am more concerned with the path of the Great Li court in the days to come.”

When Chen Ping’an reappeared, the emotions within the garden were a tumultuous sea. Some breathed a sigh of relief, while others felt their hearts leap into their throats. Some were stricken with grief, and others blossomed with joy.

At the entrance of the Jia-Class courtyard, Rong Yu softly spoke, “Lord Luo has been waiting for some time. Perhaps he should rest inside.”

Chen Ping’an chuckled, “He’s always been that way. He’ll lie down if he can, sit if he must stand.”

Rong Yu reassured him, “Chen Xi remains by the water pavilion. Han Yi and Wei Qian are there, so there should be no issues.”

Chen Ping’an nodded. “With Fu Qing now rising in the South, perhaps Chen Xi should enter the Preceptor’s Manor?”

Rong Yu asked tentatively, “Does the Preceptor intend for Chen Xi to become someone akin to Fu Qing, or merely to offer her shelter?”

Chen Ping’an replied, “The latter, of course.”

Rong Yu considered, “In that case, the Preceptor’s Manor might not be the best choice. It draws too much attention, forever linking her to it. Chen Xi may appear delicate, but she is fiercely independent. She will eventually marry, and her status as a handmaiden of the Preceptor’s Manor might breed suspicion among her future husband’s family.”

Chen Ping’an conceded, “Then you may discuss Chen Xi’s daily life in the capital with Cao Gengxin.”

Rong Yu obeyed, though a strange feeling stirred within her. The Preceptor seemed changed after his daylight ghost-banishing… she couldn’t quite grasp the difference.

Entering the courtyard, they found Lord Luo departing from the main hall with his entourage, preparing to move elsewhere. Lu Jun, winking mischievously, refrained from addressing his master directly in front of so many others.

Chen Ping’an greeted his unacknowledged disciple and the newly appointed Preceptor of the Great Yuan with smiles. Yang Houjue, who bore the Taoist name “Tuan Ni,” offered a respectful salute, which Chen Ping’an graciously accepted.

Turning to Song Jixin, Chen Ping’an inquired, “Why the rush? Off to a petty court session? Are you planning to lecture the Emperor on slaying Yin Ji, or lament the state of the desolate battlefield?”

Descending the steps, Song Jixin retorted, “I can’t stand your grandstanding! Is that reason enough?!”

Chen Ping’an nodded, “It’s the truth, but you shouldn’t run. A prince must bear the responsibilities of his title.”

Reluctantly, Song Jixin returned to the hall. The wine had been cleared away, and the room rearranged to resemble an official chamber.

It was clear Song Jixin had orchestrated this arrangement, so the Imperial Preceptor could begin deliberations the moment he returned, ensuring no delay in enacting decisions in the Preceptor’s Manour.

And as Prince, he must avoid implication and involvement.

Song Jixin slumped back into his chair, tugging at his collar. “Damn it, only you would say something like that. I’ll endure it, because I refuse to argue with a Hidden Official. But try saying that to someone else.”

Chen Ping’an suggested, “If you enjoy playing the part of an official, fine. Take a different courtyard and deal with the officials from the Ministry of Rites and the Court of State Ceremonial.”

Song Jixin frowned. “That would be improper.”

Chen Ping’an countered, “Improper how? Is it written in the Imperial Clan Regulations that you, Song Mu, are overstepping your bounds by meeting with a few officials while I’m present? Tell me, and perhaps I shall consult the Imperial Clan Court.”

“Or are you worried about plotting some secret alliance with the officials, secretly planning a rebellion?”

“If that’s truly the case, wouldn’t you need to borrow crossbows and armor from the Ministry of War and the Ministry of Justice? If you have such capabilities, you could rename yourself Lord Accomplished with Ease!”

Song Jixin was speechless, pointing at the man who had grown more like his rustic hometown self after leaving the alleys of Muddy Lane.

“You’re holding a grudge, aren’t you? I, Song Jixin, merely attended a school and read more than you, Chen Ping’an. Therefore, I refuse to engage in an uncouth argument.

Otherwise, I would let loose, and you might not win.”

Song Jixin rose, intending to move to the Bing-Class courtyard for his “court session,” finding the Yi-Class courtyard too unlucky.

Gong Yan put away her silk fan and offered a graceful curtsy to the young Hidden Official. The Jade Taoist, Huang Man, and the young Imperial Preceptor exchanged respectful hand gestures.

Xi Man, lost in his thoughts of Gao Shi’s treasured blade, was oblivious. The Great Duan Dynasty’s Cao Zhao had distracted them with casual conversation, leading them to become so familiar with one another. Xi Man was now embarrassed to ask for the blade he’d found, but figured he could borrow it someday, since they were all like brothers.

Only Li Ba felt as if thorns pricked his back, not out of fear for Chen Ping’an, but from the suffocating feeling of witnessing the Great Tao itself.

Chen Ping’an used a voice-transmitting technique to whisper to the Immortal of Golden Armor Continent, “After today, Taoist Cui Zhang will no longer feel this way.”

Chen Ping’an hesitated, then pulled Song Jixin aside for a stroll along the lake, sharing the secrets of the Preceptor’s Manor’s peach tree and the number of its blossoms.

Song Jixin frowned. “That makes sense.”

Eighty-odd peach blossoms signified the Great Li Song Dynasty’s “true lifespan,” numbering less than ninety years. The current Emperor was the same age as them. For the past two centuries, Great Li Song Emperors have been quite long lived. With the exception of the previous emperor of course. Emperor Song He had two or three decades left. If the First Prince could sit the Dragon Throne for another 20-30 years.

Great Li was the third strongest kingdom in the world, and at its Zenith. Such a colossal empire wouldn’t collapse overnight. So this meant the decline would be slow, likely over 2 decades. The problem then rested on the heir, Prince Song. Was he the key to dooming the kingdom?

Song Jixin rubbed his temples. “I do think Song Geng has issues, but I didn’t realize they were this severe. Don’t think I didn’t see that whole act I put on towards Song Lian! I didn’t see Song Geng as completely beyond saving. Compared to his predecessors, Song Geng is worse, but compared to other kingdoms he is actually quite good.”

Chen Ping’an pressed, “Describe Song Geng in a single sentence.”

Song Jixin replied, “A competent guardian of the status quo.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Then don’t put the blame entirely on Song Geng. What if some deserving and successful feudal lord were to go to the Treasure Bottle Continent? His reputation would be great. The court and country would only know that he has a spare Capital. He will be tricked by some scheming advisor into dividing the Great Li empire in half, so he can unify it later. Is that for him, or Great Li’s benefit? Song Geng would be able to defend the status quo. How is he suppose to defend anything when the Prince of Luo invades?”

Li Ba and the others were shaken by the implications. Was the Imperial Preceptor about to reveal a name?

Song Jixin crossed his arms, smiling faintly. “Those are rather dangerous words.”

Chen Ping’an scolded, “Don’t pretend to be carefree. As your neighbor, I know exactly what kind of person you are.”

Song Jixin sighed. “Alright, alright. Just keep your eye on this potential traitor.”

Chen Ping’an said softly, “Song Jixin, the more we avoid each other, the more suspicious things become. In the future, stay out of the affairs within Luo Capital’s lands, or the Treasure Bottle Continent. All the authority to meddle or not meddle is up to the Prince of Luo. You have it already.”

Song Jixin nodded. “Alright. Meddling with deities has been my goal since I was a boy.”

Chen Ping’an spoke a little more reasonably.

Chen Ping’an handed Li Ba a letter. “Taoist Cui Zhang, please deliver this confidential letter to your Prince Fu. I’ve written about the full story of the ghost creature ‘Xian’ from the Great Shou Dynasty.”

Li Ba took the letter with both hands, nodding. “My Prince thanks the Imperial Preceptor in advance.”

Chen Ping’an smiled, “I fear the grand amalgamation of waterways in the future of the Tong Leaf Continent will require Taoist Cui Zhang’s efforts.”

Li Ba replied, “I have to do my best.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Prince Luo, shall we attend to our duties?”

Song Jixin stretched, glancing at the moonlit night sky. “Did you really fix things?”

Chen Ping’an hummed in agreement. “So there will be lots of celestial business to handle now.”

Song Jixin let out an “Oh” in response. “I shall see what happens.”

The two walked and enjoyed the lake in the moonlight. They walked around a willow lined path around the lake before the Imperial Preceptor and Prince each went to do their separate tasks.

Song Jixin muttered to himself, “Willing to be the target of thousands of arrows, seeking to be a teacher for ten thousand generations.”

Chen Ping’an chuckled, “Song Ban Chai, those words are a bit harsh.”

Entering the courtyard, Rong Yu summoned Hong Ji and a few guards.

Qin Piao had never seen the young Imperial Preceptor in person before. He didn’t sit, but stood next to the chair. He didn’t know how to greet him so he stared at Hong.

Hong clasped his hands, the others doing the same. If Hong didn’t speak, they wouldn’t either.

Chen Ping’an nodded to them, then helped himself to sit. “Captain Qin, would you like to go to Li Province, near the Grand Canal? It’s a poor place, but being a vice general isn’t too bad, especially since it’s closer to your hometown.”

Qin Piao turned beet red, stammering.

Seeing Qin Piao act like a woman, Situ Dianwu anxiously wanted to help him. A two grade promotion to 4th Rank General! How are you suppose to hesitate about this? If it was me I would be thanking the Preceptor right away! I would beg the Preceptor on a whim, and demand that a King should not go back on his words.

Hong clicked his tongue. Showing how tough and capable he was as if he was some hotshot? Then he can’t say anything right in front of the Imperial Preceptor? Embarrassing.

Chen Ping’an said, “No need to rush into a decision, Captain Qin. Discuss it with your wife. Give me your answer tomorrow. If you don’t want to go, let Hong send word to the Preceptor’s Manor. If you decide to leave the capital, then come to the Preceptor’s Manor yourself.”

Situ Dianwu nudged Qin Piao. Don’t be stupid! Agree already!

Qin Piao still clasped his hands. “I understand. I will give my response before morning court ends.”

Chen Ping’an chuckled. “I hear Captain Qin is henpecked?”

Mentioning this topic, Qin Piao’s back straightened. “It doesn’t matter what time I come home from drinking with my friends.”

She never stops him, or says anything hurtful. She waits for him every night and cooks hangover soup.

After a few times, Qin Piao became embarrassed to drink out late. And went home early for the sake of his wife, and let his boss Hong and his colleagues make fun of him.

Now Qin Piao and Situ Dianwu were both at the 5th Rank. It wasn’t much, but they were both under forty.

The Great Li dynasty had hundreds of provinces. A governor was the de facto lord of a province, at the 3rd Rank. Those that were in the know would say that they were half Emperors themselves.

A province general would be at the 3rd Rank, the same as Hong of the North Guard. But only some provinces had a general. And even though they were half a grade lower than the governor, there were much less of them.

Above the province general, the four stationed and conquering generals of Great Li. Above them were the generals and marshals of the border armies. And above them were the rare Grand Inspector, even rarer than the pillar of state! A province vice general was 4th rank.

There wasn’t much upward mobility in the North Guard. The road to becoming a general was narrow. It was so difficult that Situ Dianwu didn’t think he could take Hong’s position in his life time.

This was why Han Yi, the Magistrate of the Evergreen District, was considered a possible official of the central ministry. He had many pathways to reach the Nine Ministers.

Chen Ping’an turned to Situ Dianwu, responsible for guarding the door. “Captain Situ.”

Situ Dianwu stood straight. “Reporting for duty!”

Chen Ping’an said, “Continue working hard in the North Guard. Help Hong.”

Situ Dianwu looked up blankly. He was waiting for more!

Why don’t you give me a promotion like Qin Piao? Even if you don’t promote me, even a kind word is good enough! When I get home my wife will forgive me.

Hong lightly kicked Situ on his shin and told him, “Get over there.”

Situ grumbled and quickly came to. Not every captain can “help” Hong of the North Guard. I will make Hong by me some drinks and give thanks for my “help.” I will be humble about the fact that we are brothers. The image of how it will play out filled him with happiness.

Hong Ji smiled. That was what made the North Guard unique, one coming from a family of generals, and another coming from nothing! But they were soldiers under Great Li, Captains of the North Guard!

Walking out, Hong purposely slowed down and hooked his arms around his Captain’s necks. “Neither of you embarrassed the North Guard!”

Situ Dianwu said, “Vice General Qin, share your promotions. Weren’t you guarding the door? Who was doing all the cursing?”

Qin Piao slapped Hong’s arm. “Little North Guard Captains shouldn’t speak to a province vice general in that manner.”

Yongtai District Magistrate Wang Yongjin was led into the hall by Rong Yu.

He was a bit tougher than the Yu brother who worked at the Preceptor’s Manour.

Chen Ping’an said, “How do you plead?”

Wang Yongjin said in a low voice, “I am guilty. I am at the Preceptor’s mercy.”

Chen Ping’an squinted. “How do you plead?”

Wang Yongjin trembled.

Rong Yu scoffed. “The scholar of Great Li? What a lightweight!”

Wang Yongjin knelt on the ground.

Chen Ping’an said, “Become a great official, or die trying. So if you want to be a great official, don’t think about making money. Who said those words?”

Wang Yongjin cried, “I dare not hide it from you. These words are the sentiments of the people. They were words I told a junior from my hometown when I was promoted to magistrate. I read them in the books of Master Yu.

Chen Ping’an said, “Do you like being an official?”

Wang Yongjin said, “I do.”

Chen Ping’an said, “What a good name.”

Wang Yongjin was confused.

Chen Ping’an said, “Then you can be a magistrate of Yongtai for thirty more years.”

Wang Yongjin was puzzled.

Chen Ping’an said, “Rise and speak.”

Wang Yongjin stood.

Chen Ping’an said, “When you get tired of it, leave your seal and go. The Imperial capital has many sixth ranked officials.”

Wang Yongjin left the hall. He was not sure what to do.

Wang Yongjin took a hold of his horse and said, “To the office.”

He was still the magistrate, so it wasn’t the worst end result, but also not the best. It seemed like the most he could accomplish was what he had already.

Arriving at the water pavilion, only Han Yi was on guard.

Rong Yu chuckled. “You all can come. The Imperial Preceptor will chat with Magistrate Han.”

Rong Yu asked the girl, “Chen Xi, do you want to go back to your room?”

Chen Xi shook her head, it was better to stay with her.

The girl summoned her courage. “Is he really the Imperial Preceptor?”

Rong Yu laughed. “We wouldn’t dare claim to be the Imperial Preceptor! Magistrate Han is smart enough to tell, right? Even Owner Wei is a shrewd businessman.”

The girl covered her mouth to laugh. During the time that she was alone with them, Owner Wei invited her to work at his restaurant. She was hesitant, because she didn’t know if she should burden him with a “cursed” girl.

Following behind Han Yi, Wei Qian asked quietly, “Will the Imperial Preceptor drink with me?”

Han Yi took a deep breath and smiled. “What do you think?!”

Wei Qian said, “I can personally cook.”

Han Yi grabbed Wei’s arm. “Say less in the hall. Think about your family. Don’t cause any trouble! Every word you say should be thought about twice.”

Wei Qian shook, “Got it!”

Rong Yu led them to the hall. Han Yi went in to meet the Preceptor.

Wei Qian saw his friend and became worried. If not for inviting him for drinks, Han would have stayed on his path.

The young Imperial Preceptor sat on the head chair and said for Han to sit down.

Chen Ping’an asked right away, “When the Ministry of Rites and the Imperial Academy wanted to seal the books about the border, what did you think? The Ministry of Rites thought that the spread of these books could be used to garner fame, and corrupt society. What did the Academy think? Han Yi, you are Magistrate of the Evergreen County, were you indecisive because of that?”

Han Yi said, “Out of the five people and the nine books, I thought that the four people and seven books should be banned. But I want them to come to my county so I can drink tea. The books had the ideas of the former Luo Kingdom, prideful and weak. The court can’t say what it should. ”

Chen Ping’an had no expression. “Are you afraid that by only banning Master Yu’s work, people will say that you are a bully?”

Han Yi shook his head.

Master Hong was a consultant for Yuan, and a friend of Imperial Censor Yuan Chong. You would not be wrong by saying the Old Man was the foremost scholar in the world.

Chen Ping’an said, “Tell Wei Qian to come in.”

Han Yi stood and brought him in. Rong Yu said, “Chen Xi doesn’t dare to come.”

Chen Ping’an chuckled. “Then go be with her.”

Rong Yu left the room.

Chen Ping’an said, “Brother Wei, it’s nice to see you again. Sit.”

Wei Qian wanted to laugh when he heard “Brother Wei.” Seeing Han Yi was nervous, he clasped his hands, pretending. “I pay respects to the Imperial Preceptor.”

Chen Ping’an laughed. “Grass? You are a son of a wealthy official, friends with Minister Cao. Doesn’t sound like you’re part of the grass roots.”

Wei Qian sat next to Han Yi. “I am stupid, and don’t have any achievements. My elders thought it was better to give my Imperial Academy spot to my nephew. And then I scammed him for silver.”

Han Yi’s face turned red, and tried to cough.

Wei Qian said, “Even my family doesn’t see me as a good person.”

Wei Qian said, “When I was little, my grandfather said that great officials had their own feelings. You don’t have to be restrained in front of them. Their achievements and experiences allow them to see through people. They can see through us with a glance. Grandfather also said that those people are rare. My grandfather was mostly right, because tonight I got to see one.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Aside from that last sentence, those are all gems of wisdom from an official. Having an elder is important, so listen to them.”

Wei Qian said, “Does the Preceptor know my grandfather?”

Chen Ping’an asked, “How many years did your grandfather run the Office of Transmission? Of course I know him.”

Wei Qian scratched his head. “He said that people get ignored easily. When he retired, people forgot about him.”

Even his funeral was bare.

Chen Ping’an asked, “What kind of official do you think your grandfather was?”

Wei Qian shook his head. “I don’t know. He always said that he was a good official. People said that he was an honest official.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Tell your father and uncle to go to the Preceptor’s Manor tomorrow. If they want to complain, they can write it down.”

Han Yi was ecstatic.

Wei Qian felt chills, and asked, “Did I say something wrong? My father is honest. Don’t think I am a bad person, and that my father is as well.”

Wei became quieter and quieter, on the verge of tears.

Han Yi covered his face. It was a roller coaster listening to Wei.

Chen Ping’an said, “Just give the message. When you leave, talk with Magistrate Han. Am I not speaking the Great Li language?”

Wei didn’t need to look at Han. The Preceptor wasn’t angry!

Exiting the hall, Wei realized he forgot to ask about Han.

But Han was more ecstatic, but could hide his emotions.

Han was excited.

Rong Yu smiled. “Chen Xi, the Preceptor said that when you have problems in the city, you should find him in the Preceptor’s Manor.”

Chen Xi didn’t think too much. “It would be better if I could find a Magistrate Han instead.”

Rong Yu thought that the girl would be great at the Preceptor’s Manor.

Chen Ping’an waited for Hong Chongben and his student Xu Mi.

After they sat, Chen Ping’an asked a question. “Qingfeng lost a fox kingdom. The city lord fell in rank. As someone from Qingfeng’s Xu clan, what do you feel?”

Xu Mi said, “I used to hate it. I wanted to gain achievements so I could punish you. But some of that hate was for the elders. Master taught me about life.”

Chen Ping’an said, “What did your Master teach you? Give me an example.”

Xu Mi said, “Whenever things do not go your way, blame yourself first. ”

Chen Ping’an nodded and laughed. “Your family values are better than I thought.”

Xu Mi perked up, but then realized that she was being insulted.

Hong Chongben bit back his laughter. It was difficult to “write” better than Master Chen.

Chen Ping’an asked, “Master Yu, do you want to say anything? Otherwise I will invite Censor Yuan.”

Hong Chongben shook his head. “Let me see things.”

Chen Ping’an smiled. “The ever learning Master Yu is so diligent that he reads all the time.”

Hong Chongben’s face changed. He wasn’t saying that he can study himself to death!

“Don’t think too much about what I say.”

Hong Chongben said, “I may not be as patient as Hidden Official Chen, but I am more or less fine.”

Hong Chongben asked, “You don’t think I should stay studying and never come out? Right?”

Chen Ping’an laughed. “I can’t say that.”

Chen Ping’an waved his hand to send them away. Great Li had plenty of scholars.

Out of the works he read in the study, there were many typos.

Hong Chongben said, “I used to be an official. Living in the mountain is the same. You have to find water, herbs, and identify the grass.”

Chen Ping’an nodded. “I will ask Master Yu about border studies one day.”

Hong Chongben said, “If Great Li never leaves Treasure Bottle, there is no reason to come to the mountains.”

Chen Ping’an laughed. “Seems like that mountain isn’t yours.”

Hong Chongben couldn’t retort that.

Exiting, Hong Chongben said, “Xu Mi, don’t go see your grandfather at Red Light Lane. Tell him to prepare.”

Xu Mi asked, “Master, what is it?”

Hong Chongben said, “Lend Yuan Chong some money so I can buy that mountain.”

Xu Mi nodded.

Next up was Yuan’s Crown Prince Lu Jun, Imperial Preceptor Yang Houjue, Great Duan Crown Prince Cao Zhao, and the military man Gao Shi.

Chen Ping’an laughed. “Lu Jun, we don’t need to take the Zhong Tiao mountain any more. The Great Li and Great Yuan are now allies. ”

Lu Jun said, “Master, my answer is yes! If Father says no, I will disown him!”

Yang Houjue rubbed his face.

Chen Ping’an looked at Yang Houjue, who nodded. “Yes.”

“Then it is settled.”

Chen Ping’an pointed at the Great Duan Prince. “Is the Great Duan interested in joining as allies? Or will you wait to see us beat the Great Shou in battle?

Cao Zhao said, “I would love to ally with the Yuan and Li, but I am no Lu. Please allow me to contact my Father.”

Chen Ping’an nodded. “Sounds good.”

Cao Zhao asked, “If Duan waits, will you not ally with us?”

Chen Ping’an shook his head. “I will even go to Duan.”

Cao Zhao laughed. “There is no need.”

Chen Ping’an smiled. “Duan isn’t waiting on the battle, but what the Confucian temple thinks. ”

Cao Zhao didn’t deny it.

Lu Jun thought that was a good way to chat.

Chen Ping’an turned to Gao Shi.

Gao Shi said, “How can I serve you?”

Chen Ping’an asked, “That blade?”

Gao Shi said, “As long as it is drawn, it will draw the energy from immortals. Used by military men to deal with them.”

Gao Shi offered the blade. “I didn’t want to give this to anyone, but I am okay with giving it to you.”

Chen Ping’an said, “I am just curious.”

Gao Shi said, “I want to give this up for a high position.”

Lu Jun said, “He should serve Duan.”

Chen Ping’an was amused. “You are storytelling.”

Gao Shi became embarrassed.

Chen Ping’an said, “Don’t force yourself. The people from Shou are still coming for you, right?

Gao Shi nodded.

Yang Houjue said, “Gao Shi can get famous.”

Chen Ping’an said, “He has three options. Serve in the army, or be a worker for the Minister of Justice, or start as a worker for the City Guard.”

Gao Shi said, “I will do City Guard!”

Chen Ping’an said, “If you don’t like Great Li, tell Rong Yu, and go.”

Gao Shi said, “Really?”

Chen Ping’an laughed. “You would be lying.”

Gao Shi was no longer afraid, and clasped his hands. “Chen Ping’an, thank you!”

From Yellow, only Liu 48 was called.

A soldier was the one that told him.

Liu dared not speak, so he looked at Yellow for help.

Even the Great Shou Emperor was thrown by a corner, so how important was Liu?

Yellow asked, “What does the Imperial Preceptor mean?”

The soldier said, “I don’t know.”

Yellow said, “We will find out.”

It was the army that determined the fate of the people.

Chen Ping’an asked, “Did you do things south of the Grand Canal?”

After Great Li was forced to give up land, there was a need to take care of the people there. Yellow would let Liu take silver to the area to resolve disputes.

Liu said, “I just followed orders.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Take how much you spent.”

Liu didn’t look at Chen.

Liu shook his head.

Chen Ping’an said, “Report.”

Liu said, “27500 silver.”

Rong Yu came and said, “He has been keeping records. Yellow gave Liu 50000. 3200 was stolen.”

Liu was sweating.

Rong Yu said, “Why did you do that?”

Liu said, “I will check on it.”

Rong Yu said, “Isn’t that what I already did.”

Liu was defeated.

Chen Ping’an said, “You can call yourself by your name. If you have the face, you can call yourself.”

Liu said, “I dare not!”

Rong Yu laughed. “Why won’t you listen to the Preceptor?”

Liu was shaking.

Rong Yu said, “Stand up.”

Chen Ping’an asked, “Do you have any thoughts about building something on the south side?”

Liu said, “I thought about it, but Yellow said no.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Aren’t you a friend of the prince?”

Liu said, “That is just propaganda.”

Chen Ping’an said, “No need to swear.”

Chen Ping’an said, “Today is our first meeting. I hope you can be yourself.”

“I want to put 2 guards by your side. They aren’t meant to spy on you. It’s to make sure that you do not think you are above the law. And I want you to know your limits.”

Liu clasped his hands. “I know!”

Chen Ping’an asked, “Why are you here today?”

Liu said, “Because of Yellow?”

Chen Ping’an shook his head. “Because someone said you are okay, I guess.”

Liu went out.

Liu slapped himself.

The City Guard escorted Wei back to their house.

The City Guard gave this honor to all the guests.

Rong Yu stood at the door and asked, “Do you want to see more people?”

She knew that the Preceptor was going to get rid of the dark spots of Great Li.

Chen Ping’an went out and asked, “What do you think of Yellow?”

Rong Yu said, “He is hasty, but means well.”

Chen Ping’an nodded.

Chen Ping’an went to the city and looked.

He thought, “Elders, please be at ease. Great Li will be better.”