Green Mountain

Lord Bai Long stood on the bank of Taiye Pond, his hands tucked quietly in the wide sleeves of his robe, deep in thought. Chen Ji sat in the shadow of the artificial hill, patiently waiting without uttering a single word.

When planting the seeds of suspicion in the heart of those in power, it’s best to touch on it lightly; anything more would be superfluous. Those in power have their own pride; they never trust others’ answers, only their own conjectures.

Time passed little by little, and Bai Long stood motionless like a sculpture.

After a long while, Bai Long slowly spoke: "You are correct; only by risking one’s life to conceal poison can it be brought into the Huitong Hall."

Chen Ji remained silent.

Bai Long pondered for another moment: "But who would dare to make such a risky move? The Jing Dynasty Military Intelligence Department? Both the Chen family and Xu family have motives and also the capability to do this."

Chen Ji’s heart sank, fearing that Bai Long would once again associate the act with the Chen family or Xu family, unwilling to believe it was the Jing Dynasty Military Intelligence Department’s doing.

However, Bai Long shifted his tone: "Yet, it’s better to believe it exists than not. If it’s a Jing Dynasty trap, it could lead to a great disaster. You go back; I will make my decision. If it’s proven that it’s indeed done by a Jing Dynasty spy, I’ll credit you for it."

Chen Ji quickly replied: "I do not want the credit, only for you, my lord, to keep your promise and grant me the convenience at the salt yard."

Bai Long glanced at him: "Bring the shadow map of your seal tomorrow, and I’ll send it by fast horse to the fifty-nine salt yards, where they will prioritize your salt permits bearing your seal."

Chen Ji breathed a sigh of relief, bowed, and said: "Thank you, my lord. I take my leave."