Zhu Ying, Chief Historian of Jinan

When they left the old man's village, Luan Yi and his companions neither revealed their identities nor made any promises. They truly did not know what to say; their spirits were heavy, and even Luan Yi, who had arrived full of confidence, now felt uncertain. The problem before them was far more complex than he had imagined. The skies over Jinan were shrouded by these villains, and unless a deity descended, it would be difficult to dispel the clouds.

With heavy steps, they continued westward. By noon, the earthen city walls of Licheng County emerged on the distant horizon. From afar, the city gate was crowded with people—a gathering had formed.

Luan Miao asked Luan Yi, "Has something happened in the city? Why are there so many people?"

Luan Yi responded with a cold laugh, "What else could they be doing here? They must be here to greet Father, the new trusted magistrate." He understood well that the so-called greeting was, in truth, a show of force. Since entering Jinan's territory, they had not revealed their names or origins to anyone. Yet these people from Licheng County knew their movements precisely, coming out to meet them without missing a beat. Their purpose was obvious: to demonstrate their vast network of informants. They wanted Luan Yi and his group to know that the local powers in Licheng County were all-seeing and all-knowing, and it would be wise for newcomers to keep their heads down.

"What should we do?" Luan Miao was at a loss.

Luan Yi offered comfort, "The cart will straighten when it reaches the bend—let's adapt as needed." He also cautioned, "Father, remember, when meeting these people, do not show any sign of disgust. We have just arrived and must not make enemies yet. We need to feign friendliness, probe their strengths and weaknesses, and then decide our next move."

"Don't worry, Yi'er," Luan Miao waved his hand and smiled. "I have lived for over thirty years. Though my learning does not match yours, I have some experience. Especially in earlier years, when I traveled widely with my father, I saw many places and learned when to say what. Besides, I have already thought it over on the journey. If these local powers wish to extort and oppress, let them be. I need only turn a blind eye and play the fool. As for matters of political upheaval, I leave them entirely to you. If you need my help, just ask."

Luan Yi nodded repeatedly. With this, he felt reassured.

As it turned out, Luan Miao, though too honest for business, possessed remarkable talent for playing a role. Luan Yi could not help but marvel: every person has some unique skill, but mediocrity comes from not finding the right place to use it. Like Luan Miao now, nearing the city gate, he dismounted with a scholarly, handsome smile and walked toward the welcoming crowd.

Of the hundred or so people who had come to greet them, a man in black official attire led the way, beaming as he approached. He asked, "May I ask if you are the new magistrate of Licheng County, Lord Luan Miao, styled Boqian?"

Luan Miao replied from a distance, "Indeed, I am he." He walked to the city gate, bowed with impeccable form, as if out of a textbook. He spoke modestly, "I am Luan Miao of Yingchuan, honored to meet you all, dear colleagues and friends."

"Ah! So you are Lord Luan. We have waited here for quite some time. Welcome to Licheng County." The leader said this, but made no move to return Luan Miao's greeting.

Luan Miao was unfazed by the discourtesy, maintaining his amiable smile and replying humbly, "My tardiness is my fault. I shall surely host a banquet to make amends another day."

"Hahaha!" The leader let out a hearty laugh. "Lord Luan, you are indeed a forthright man! I like you, very much. Oh, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Zhu Ying, styled Huairen, currently Chief Historian of the Jinan State."

"Oh? You are Chief Historian Zhu?" Luan Miao was startled. Zhu Ying was precisely the villain mentioned by the old man on the road. Styled Huairen—his name itself was ironic. Though he thought this, he said aloud, "Your reputation precedes you, Lord Zhu."

"Haha, I am not worthy of such praise." The villain then pointed to a shifty-eyed man beside him and said, "This is Sun Ru, the assistant magistrate of Licheng County, one of your clerks." He gestured to the other side, "This is Yang Mou, a wealthy merchant of Jinan State. And this…" He continued, introducing each important figure in the welcoming crowd to Luan Miao, who greeted them each in turn.

Luan Yi, meanwhile, committed their names and positions to memory, preparing to sweep them all away when the time came to eradicate the evil cult.

After the introductions, Zhu Ying smacked his lips and glanced behind Luan Miao, his gaze first resting on the imposing Dian Wei, whose ugly appearance startled him. Then his eyes settled on Luan Yi, who stood beside Luan Miao. He asked, "Lord Luan, who is this young man?"

"Oh! This is my son, Luan Yi." Luan Miao smiled and beckoned, "Ziqi, come pay your respects to the gentlemen!"

Luan Yi, imitating his father's manner, bowed deeply. "Yi greets the esteemed gentlemen and elders."

His name stirred the crowd—everyone at the gate was shocked. Zhu Ying exclaimed, "What? Luan Yi, styled Ziqi? Is this the famed savior, Luan Ziqi?"

Luan Yi replied modestly, "I dare not claim such talent; that is merely Sir Zi Jiang's generous praise."

"Sir Ziqi has come as well!" The people outside were dumbfounded, exchanging glances. They knew the new magistrate was Luan Yi's father, Luan Miao, but had not expected Luan Yi himself to arrive.

The arrogance on Zhu Ying's face diminished, and he flattered, "Sir Ziqi, your fame truly precedes you! To have you personally visit Licheng is a blessing, not only for the city but for all of Jinan."

Luan Yi hurriedly responded with humility, "I am not worthy!"

Zhu Ying continued, "You have traveled far today. We have arranged a banquet in the city to welcome and honor you all, and hope you will grace us with your presence."

Luan Yi was about to politely decline, citing the fatigue of their journey, when Luan Miao interjected, "Lord Zhu, with such generous hospitality, we would be honored to accept."

Luan Yi was surprised, but upon reflection, realized that refusing hospitality upon arrival would seem unfriendly. His father had his reasons for accepting.

The welcoming banquet was set at the largest restaurant in the city—Meeting Immortals Hall, its name hinting at mystical airs. The interior, though not as grand as Rising Phoenix Pavilion, was quite elegant. The group entered the hall, where Dian Wei took seats with the attendants. Luan Miao and Luan Yi brought Luan Fu with them and followed Zhu Ying to a private room.

Once seated in the private chamber, wine and dishes were served in succession. The table soon filled with glasses and cups. After several rounds of drinks, Zhu Ying asked Luan Yi, "Sir Ziqi, what do you think of Jinan so far?"

His question carried an obvious probing intent. If Luan Yi replied with the truth—that the people were destitute and suffering—Zhu Ying and Yang Mou would surely make trouble for him later. Realizing this, Luan Yi deftly sidestepped, "Jinan is well-known for its location south of the Ji River. To the north lies the river, to the south endless mountains, and within the city are countless sweet springs. It is truly a beautiful land!"

Zhu Ying laughed heartily. "Then, Sir Ziqi, you must explore more. The scenic spots around Licheng are far more than what you see here! According to the Records of the Grand Historian, 'Shun plowed the fields at Mount Li, fished at Lei Marsh, made pottery by the riverside, crafted implements at Shou Hill, and kept time at Fu Xia.' The Mount Li mentioned is just south of Licheng. The city was named 'Licheng' precisely for being beneath Mount Li. Besides, there is the treasure spring in the city, where three jets surge over three feet high, the water roaring like thunder—a true wonder of the world!"

"Oh? Hearing you describe it, I wish I could see it now!" Luan Yi knew Zhu Ying referred to the famous First Spring Under Heaven—Baotu Spring. Its name would only be fixed in later generations by Zeng Gong, one of the Eight Great Prose Masters of the Tang and Song, but for now it carried no official name.

"Hahaha…" Zhu Ying laughed again. "That is easily arranged; the three streams are not far, and you may visit after the meal." With that, Zhu Ying exchanged a knowing glance with Sun Ru, the assistant magistrate.

Sun Ru understood, and after proposing a toast to Luan Miao and Luan Yi, asked, "Lord Luan, Sir Ziqi, do you have any plans for your time in Jinan?"

Luan Miao, having drunk quite a bit, swayed his head and spoke with exaggerated confidence. "Of course I have plans—and not small ones, either!"

"Hmm?" The whole table was startled by this, including Luan Yi. Zhu Ying and his colleagues were worried that Luan Miao might bring trouble once in office, while Luan Yi's heart was in his throat, fearing his father might drunkenly reveal their true purpose—to undermine these men—and invite disaster.

He quietly cautioned, "Father, you've had enough to drink."

"Ungrateful child! Father… that… eh, had enough to drink? This bit of wine is nothing! We came here with big plans!" While he spoke, Luan Miao glared at Luan Yi, but secretly kicked him under the table. Luan Yi immediately understood—his father was acting, and so he said nothing more.

"Oh? Then, Lord Luan, please share your plans, so we may be of assistance," Yang Mou asked with feigned sincerity.

"Before coming, I heard Jinan is mountainous and lush, so I intend to establish a furniture factory here to produce tables and chairs. Tell me, isn't that a significant project?"

The guests sighed in relief and praised the idea.

Sun Ru said, "Of course, it's a major enterprise—a great benefit to the region! Have you selected a site, Lord Luan? If so, we can help coordinate. If not, we can assist in finding the perfect location."

Luan Miao smiled, "Then I must trouble you, Brother Sun." He shifted his tone, raising his eyebrows and adopting an official air. "Besides, I hear Jinan has many temples, so I plan to produce incense and other small items alongside the furniture. I hope you gentlemen can help find channels to sell them."