Even when he saw Hong Shenshang approaching, Su Hongli didn’t get up. His expression was flat, with a hint of distance. “Take a seat.”

Hong Shenshang thought nothing of it. He clasped his fist and subtly inclined his head at the Daoist elder. “Fellow Daoist, long time no see.”

The elder smiled and nodded back. “State Preceptor, your bearing is even more impressive than in the past. Congratulations!”

Hong Shenshang casually found a place to sit, then said, “I came here in the middle of the night to discuss two matters. Once I’ve finished, I’ll leave.”

“Please, tell me directly,” said Su Hongli.

Hong Shenshang’s faint golden eyes turned toward Su Hongli. “First, within a few days, Su Yi will arrive in the Jade Capital. His Majesty ordered me to inquire about your attitude toward the situation.” 

“This is Su Family business,” said Su Hongli without so much as pausing to think. “I will naturally resolve it on my own. When the time comes, His Majesty can see for himself.”

Hong Shenshang’s brow furrowed, but a moment later, he nodded. “The second matter is that two diplomatic missions are on their way here; both the Great Qin and the Great Wei have dispatched emissaries to the Great Zhou....