Shajin scratched his head, a little puzzled.
"I just need to talk to the former Yuheng, that's all. What's got you so flustered?"
Keqing's face turned even redder—this time out of indignation. She shot Shajin an annoyed glare.
"I… I got it! Come in the afternoon. I'll go tell my father. Hmph!"
She spun around to leave.
But Shajin stepped forward and grabbed her hand.
"Don't be in such a hurry. I just ordered food. Stay and eat first."
"Hmph! At least you have some decency."
…
Shajin arrived at the Ke residence, where a servant came out to greet him.
"Good day, sir. May I ask your name?"
"I'm Shajin."
"Oh! So you're Mr. Shajin. Please, come in—the master has been expecting you."
Shajin nodded slightly and followed the servant inside. The Ke estate was tastefully decorated.
Every detail of the home reflected the refined taste and social standing of its owner.
They passed through winding corridors before arriving in a spacious reception hall.
At its center stood an elegant tea table surrounded by intricately carved wooden chairs. Landscape paintings adorned the walls, giving the room an air of solemnity without losing warmth.
Seated at the head of the room was Ke Feng, former Yuheng of the Liyue Qixing. He held a document in his hands, seemingly deep in thought.
Hearing footsteps, he looked up and gave a warm smile.
"Who would've thought the famous Saint of Gambling, Mr. Shajin, would grace my humble abode? You honor us with your presence."
Ke Feng stood and extended a hand.
Shajin stepped forward to shake it, smiling in return. "Mr. Ke Feng, your reputation precedes you. Meeting you today proves the praise was well-earned."
Once seated, the servants brought over tea and refreshments. Ke Feng took a gentle sip of tea, then placed the cup down and looked to Shajin.
"Mr. Shajin, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"
Shajin smiled, pulling a document from his coat and handing it over.
"Mr. Ke Feng, these are some recent business proposals. I believe a partnership between our families could benefit us both."
Ke Feng accepted the papers and began to read them attentively. His brows occasionally furrowed and relaxed as he flipped through, clearly intrigued by the content.
But one thing troubled him—the terms were overwhelmingly favorable to his side.
"If I may ask, Mr. Shajin… why such generosity?"
Shajin's smile deepened.
"Heh, after a thorough investigation, I've found that among the former Qixing, aside from you and Uncle Tian of the Tian Shu seat, the others have all been guilty—at varying degrees—of exploiting their positions for personal gain."
Ke Feng was silent for a moment before replying, "Please, speak freely."
Shajin took a second to choose his words.
"Mr. Ke Feng, I admire how you've remained untouched by corruption, a lotus rising unstained from the mud. But allowing those others to retain power would be a tragedy for all of Liyue."
Ke Feng's brows furrowed slightly. He didn't seem surprised—just weary. He sighed softly.
"Ah… you're right. The Qixing today have strayed far from what they once were. But if I were to oppose the others outright, I'd be attacked from all sides. That's why I chose to retire."
"I have something else to say, but I'm not sure it's appropriate…"
Ke Feng glanced at his daughter, who was clearly eavesdropping, and at the attending retainers. He immediately understood.
"You're all dismissed."
"And you too, Keqing."
"Ugh, fine…" she pouted as she left.
_
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