220-227

Chapter 220: Seeing Yan Bingyun for the First Time

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Using intelligence gathered from all sources, and by resorting to all sorts of means, they gathered at a courtyard in the southeast corner of Shangjing. The envoy confirmed that Xiao En had already entered Shangjing in secret. As to where he was being held, probably only the mother and son in the palace and that Sir Shen of the Discipline Commission knew. Strangely, Northern Qi made quite a welcoming scene at Wuduhe, but everything was quiet when returning to the capital. It seemed like Shang Shanhu was still playing tug-of-war with those who wanted Xiao En dead.

Fan Xian did not care if Xiao En lived or died. More accurately, once in Shangjing, before he could be certain to utilize the various assets hidden in Northern Qi, Fan Xian did not have the power to care for Xiao En's life.

Unless Wu Zhu came, or Wu Zhu came to give Fan Xian that chest.

That brought up another question which had been bothering Fan Xian for a while: why did the inhumanly cold Wu Zhu so adamantly refuse to come up north? Was there someone up north he didn't want to see?"

On the other hand, the suggestion Fan Xian had given to Chang Ninghou was obviously taking effect. Having successfully baited certain people, there was much profit hidden in the suggestion he made. A meeting with that Sir Shen was also arranged in secret. Fan Xian knew, however, that despite all the secrecy, the Northern Qi empress dowager would definitely be watching over everything from the shadows.

They wouldn't completely trust Fan Xian, but he still had to try.

Fan Xian did not trust them at all, but the bait had been set. There was always the hope something would bite.

Vice-minister Wei seemed to still be trying to delay things, but both sides involved in this negotiation could feel the pace of events speeding up. Although later than what Fan Xian had strongly requested, the Office of the Grand Herald and Discipline Commission secretly dispatched the right documents, and the envoy finally got the chance to meet with Yan Bingyun on a beautiful day.

The blue sky was clear. Shielding his eyes from the intense sunlight, Fan Xian grinned, remembering a phrase commonly used to start writing assignments in elementary school.

He was very happy, and also a bit excited—although during the journey, before this trade was agreed on, the darkness hidden in the deepest parts of his heart almost drove him to make a certain exchange. Fortunately, none of that became reality—as mentioned a while back, Fan Xian admired this Mister Yan, whom he had never met, very much.

He was a high-ranking official, and yet he was able to discard his riches and prosperity to take up the dangerous job as a spy in a foreign nation far away. Even more impressively, he was exceptionally successful, successfully entering Northern Qi's upper levels. On that alone, Fan Xian knew this Mister Yan was more accomplished than he was in many areas.

Yan Bingyun was locked up in a heavily-guarded manor on the outskirts of Shangjing. A military base was situated right outside of it. Brocade Guards were stationed within. After the manor's iron gates opened, the carriage entered, proceeding along the stone path, and soon the envoy arrived at a small building.

This building didn't have the historical atmosphere of other buildings in Shangjing. It was built from hard rock. There was no courtyard, and from the corner watchtower, one could see every single movement on the lawn below; truly a great place to imprison someone.

Today, only Wang Qinian followed Fan Xian to see Yang Bingyun. Gao Da belonged to the Tiger Guards and the Lin brothers were from the Office of the Grand Herald; none of them had much to do with Council business, nor was it convenient for them to come.

Wei Hua calmly said to Fan Xian, "Sir Fan, take a look at this scenery. Wouldn't you agree that we treated him well?"

Fan Xian was even more emotionless. "Even if it's some palace in a divine realm, if you stay in it for too long, it's still a prison in the end."

The vice- arbitrator who was accompanying them said, "While it may be a prison, it's still much more comfortable than your Overwatch Council's dungeon." This high-ranking member of the Brocade Guard became angry as he recalled Xiao En's state when they received him at the border.

Fan Xian frowned, he disliked this vice- arbitrator the most. After the envoy's arrival in Shangjing, this vice- arbitrator was supposed to be the one to contact the appropriate personnel on both sides, but he ended up hiding away. Even now, Fan Xian was still confused about the official rankings of Northern Qi. Despite being members of the Brocade Guard, why was the boss called the "Provost of the Discipline Commission" and his secret agent the "arbitrator"? When he heard the title for the first time, Fan Xian almost thought he was dealing with people from the military.

"What's the use in so much pointless talk? I want to go in." Fan Xian gave the man a cold look. True, Xiao En had suffered for twenty years in the south, but who knew how much torture Yan Bingyun suffered after his arrest? The fact he had survived up until now was quite a feat.

Before going in to see Yan Bingyun, Fan Xian had imagined many scenarios in his head: Mister Yan being tied to a rack, covered in deep gashes; steel needles driven into his fingers and his toe nails all ripped out, exposing the tender flesh underneath; other parts of his body were burned black by hot irons; even his gums were bare, having lost all his teeth.

That, of course, was the cruelest possibility.

Fan Xian also imagined that perhaps Mister Yan was sitting on a cushion right now, surrounded by soft blankets and a handful of scantily-clad beauties who fed him grapes. As the juices from the grapes dripped onto Mister Yan's firm chest, the women carefully wiped it away with soft pieces of cloth.

That, of course, was the worst possibility.

There was also an absurd scenario that wouldn't leave Fan Xian's mind. Perhaps, upon seeing him, Yan Bingyun would come charging like a wounded tiger and rip Fan Xian to pieces. He would be wailing, complaining about how the Council had abandoned him; he hated his homeland for coming so late to his rescue.

That, of course, was the most unlikely possibility.

Regardless of what he thought, Fan Xian still felt the human imagination was truly lacking, himself included. As he looked at the young man sitting on a chair in the room, Fan Xian opened his mouth slightly in surprise; he never would have thought Yan Bingyun would be in such a state.

Vice-minister Wei and that vice-arbitrator were also unprepared for the scene. They both gasped.

The room was decorated simply but elegantly. There was a large bed, a desk, and some everyday furnishings. It was more like a regular living quarter than a place for imprisonment. Fan Xian wasn't sure if this was Northern Qi's temporary arrangement to fool him; he was only looking toward that chair.

On it sat a handsome young man with a cold expression. Judging by his dashing face, he seemed to be a very fickle person. What surprised everybody was the girl sitting on the young man's lap, her light sobs echoing in the quiet room!

Fan Xian finally closed his mouth. Confused, he grinned and thought about how the entire envoy had been so worried for this head spy of Qing. None of them had thought a romance drama would play out in this prison cell; it was not the interrogation scene from James Bond movies Fan Xian had envisioned.

The young man in the chair was none other than Yan Bingyun. Upon discovering his visitors—two of which were dressed as members of the Qing court—he frowned. A cold atmosphere began to fill the room.

This cold atmosphere seemed to have awakened the crying girl on his lap. That young woman raised her head in surprise and looked at the people at the door. Only now did Fan Xian notice this girl was quite beautiful, with a submissive expression. While Fan Xian could tell she must have come from a grand household, he didn't know why she was here in this heavily-guarded prison.

"Miss Shen?" Wei Hua was shocked. He shouted, "Someone, lead the Lady out."

"Shen?" Fan Xian frowned. Things were starting to get interesting.

A few Brocade Guards rushed in. Wei Hua, with a harsh expression, scolded them. "Letting Miss Shen come to such a dangerous place, what were you all doing?!" The vice-arbitrator was also full of anger. A couple of slaps later, the Brocade Guards walked toward Miss Shen while covering their faces. However, they dared not make a move.

"Miss Shen? If you still won't leave, I must resort to using force." The vice-arbitrator bowed to Miss Shen.

Wei Hua also walked over and gently urged her, "Miss Shen, please go back. If Sir Shen finds out, he will beat you to death."

Fan Xian hadn't made eye contact with Yan Bingyun, he just silently watched the girl. A girl named Shen was able to enter this manor, which was heavily guarded by the Brocade Guard. Without question, then, she must be the daughter of Sir Shen.

But Fan Xian didn't know Miss Shen's relationship with Yan Bingyun. Chuckling to himself, he wondered if the great Sir Shen was trying to use her to seduce Yan Bingyun.

Miss Shen quietly stood up and stared at Yan Bingyun, who hadn't said a word. A wild and venomous hatred surfaced in her submissive eyes. She said, emphasizing each word, "I only ask you this: which part of what you said before was true?"

Yan Bingyun tilted his head slightly and met her gaze with emotionless eyes. He said quietly, "I am a member of the Fourth Bureau of Southern Qing's Overwatch Council. Miss Shen, you should know that none of what I said was true."

Wei Hua looked at Fan Xian, who had been coldly observing. He was afraid Miss Shen would invoke ridicule from these southern officials if she continued to talk. Hurriedly, he ordered the Brocade Guard to drag Miss Shen outside.

Miss Shen coldly shook off the hands of the Brocade Guards. Full of sadness, she said to Yan Bingyun, who was sitting motionless as a mountain, "Good. What an affectionate and honest man you are, Yan Bingyun."

Chapter 221: Ripping the White Robe

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

"What an affectionate and honest man you are, Yan Bingyun."

That sentence was filled with heartbreak and despair. Even Fan Xian, with his heart of iron, couldn't help but sigh. Wei Hua was exceptionally angry. He glared at Yan Bingyun, who was sitting in his chair, as if wanting to immediately cut this enemy spy into pieces.

With much weak sobbing, Miss Shen finally left the room.

Fan Xian sighed again. "What an affectionate and honest woman." Though that was what he said, he was still very suspicious. Even if Miss Shen was the daughter of the boss of Northern Qi's Brocade Guard, and even if Yan Bingyun had been emotionally involved with her during his years in Northern Qi… who was Yan Bingyun? He was the highest-ranked Qing spy caught by Northern Qi in the past fifteen years. Being locked away under such security, how was Miss Shen allowed to walk in so openly and coincidentally put on a show in front of these Southern Qing officials?

Fan Xian's heart suddenly leapt. He understood what these Northerners were thinking.

The prison—which was much unlike a prison—was now much quieter. Yan Bingyun didn't stand up from his chair. He just poured himself a cup of tea and drank slowly. This impressive character who had lurked in Northern Qi for many years had such a cold and unapproachable expression. He gave off a feeling that he didn't care for anything—even his own life.

Wei Hua calmed down and frowned at Yan Bingyun. "Mister Yan, at any rate, we have been good friends during recent years… That we hail from different nations isn't such a big deal in the first place, but I want you to remember, there are certain things I can never forgive. After you leave, please remember to never set foot in Qi again. His Majesty had send down an order through Sir Shen that if you, in the future, take a single step on Qi soil, we will risk three thousand knights for your head.

Yan Bingyun half-lowered his head as if he didn't hear Wei Hua. He toyed with the teacup's handle in his hand. Ever since his identity was exposed last year and he became imprisoned, this great genius Yun, who was once so socially active in Shangjing, seemed to have become a person who was born mute.

"Today I'm only here to see him," Fan Xian said to Wei Hua expressionlessly. "I need an exact date for when I can bring him back to the envoy."

"He must not go back to the envoy. He may only leave Shangjing in secret. Do you know how many people in Shangjing… want to rip your Mister Yan to pieces?" Wei Hua said chillingly.

Fan Xian shook his head. "I was ordered by my emperor to bring Sir Yan back to the envoy. We will take care of disguising his return. Do you think we want to stir up unnecessary trouble?"

Wei Hua frowned. He knew Xiao En and Si Lili were already in Shangjing. In this secret negotiation, Southern Qing had done more than enough for their part, making it hard for him to delay any longer. And while Fan Xian taking the liberty to go to his manor had invoked much criticism, Fan Xian's seemingly absurd suggestion was somehow able to move those in the palace as well as Sir Shen, who held much power.

"I will begin the procedures immediately."

Fan Xian calmly nodded. "Could you excuse us for a moment? I want to have a chat alone with Sir Yan."

Wei Hua frowned. If they really wanted to plot something, wouldn't it be safer to do it after he takes Yan Bingyun back to the envoy? Wei Hua couldn't figure out what this Sir Fan was thinking. Giving Fan Xian a nod, he left the room.

Now there was only Fan Xian, Wang Qinian… and the aloof Yan Bingyun with his head half-lowered

Fan Xian was not at all self-conscious about being in the enemy nation's Brocade Guard prison. With a warm smile, he pulled a chair and sat in front of Yan Bingyun. "My name is Fan Xian"

Fan Xian knew he had already entered the capital before Yan Bingyun's capture. As the northern leader of the Overwatch Council, Yan Bingyun must have heard of the name.

As expected, after hearing the name "Fan Xian", Yan Bingyun's fingers slowly left the handle of the teacup and he looked up.

Unexpectedly, his gaze was full of ridicule and disdain.

"Fan Xian? The illegitimate son of the treasury's Fan Jian. The one who grew up in Danzhou, enjoys alcohol, and has no talents; that is all," Yan Bingyun said. His voice was very soft, completely in contrast to his cold expression. "What are you doing here?"

Fan Xian sighed. "Sir Yan, much has changed since you were locked away. My father has become the Minister of Revenue, and I, the one without any talent, am now the head diplomat of this envoy. My main purpose for coming to Northern Qi is to bring you back." For some reason, Yan Bingyun seemed to despise the name "Fan Xian".

"Bring me back?" Yan Bingyun slowly raised his head. He was no more than twenty years old, but strands of silver could already be seen in his eyebrows, giving him a strange look. "Who are you? Why should I believe you?"

"I am Fan Xian. I am the current Commissioner of the Overwatch Council." Fan Xian knew Yan Bingyun, as the head spy, was being extra cautious; he must be trying to figure out if this was one of Northern Qi's tricks. So Fan Xian took off the plaque on his waist and showed it to Yan Bingyun.

Yan Bingyun scanned the wooden plaque and frowned, knowing it was extremely difficult to forge. But he still couldn't believe this youth younger than him was the Lord Commissioner of the Council. That position was a supreme existence just below the director. While the eight Bureaus weren't under the Commissioner's jurisdiction on the surface, they were still under the Commissioner's control.

Being imprisoned for over half a year made Yan Bingyun lock away his emotions; he wouldn't believe any illogical developments. He dared not to take any risks, because anything he exposed could potentially destroy Qing's entire spy network in Northern Qi.

Wang Qinian, who had been quiet so far, said, "Sir Yan, Sir Fan was recently appointed Commissioner. He has come here today to rescue you."

Yan Bingyun gave Wang Qinian a cold look. "You're Sir Wang from the First Bureau?"

"Correct." Facing Yan Bingyun somehow made Wang Qinian a bit nervous. Knowing Yan Bingyun had been imprisoned for over half a year, Wang Qinian didn't know whether to admire or pity him. His time in prison must not have been easy.

"I don't need you to confirm my identity." Fan Xian gently patted Yan Bingyun on the shoulder. "In any case, all this will be over soon. You may keep silent and follow the envoy back to Qing. You don't have to talk until after seeing Chen Pinging or your father. I think such arrangements will put you at ease a bit."

Hearing that, Yan Bingyun frowned. He knew that couldn't be what Northern Qi was planning.

But Fan Xian saw something in Yan Bingyun's frown. With a chilled expression, he carefully pinched Yan Bingyun's collar.

Yan Bingyun, with a sense of ridicule in his cold eyes, gave Fan Xian a look. "You want to see?"

"Yes," Fan Xian calmly replied. Slowly, his fingers parted Yan Bingyun's white robe, which was as plain as the clouds and snow. As the fabric parted from Yan Bingyun's body, however, there was a most subtle ripping sound.

Yan Bingyun's face remained unchanged, he didn't even twitch an eyebrow.

Fan Xian, on the other hand, looked uneasy. Beneath the white robe was the horrifying skin on Yan Bingyun's neck, covered in scars. Judging by how much it had healed, Yan Bingyun must have been in recovery for some time now. With so many wounds on his neck, one could imagine just how much suffering the rest of his body endured.

Wang Qinian cursed out, while Fan Xian regained his calm. "How long has it been since your last torture?"

"Three months" Yan Bingyun answered with a laugh, as if his tattered body did not belong to him.

Fan Xian carefully readjusted Yan Bingyun's collar and sighed, "Northern Qi knew when we would arrive, so they stopped three months ago. Even after three months, your wounds are still horrific. You have suffered so much, Sir Yan."

Yan Bingyun gave Fan Xian a bland look, as if not satisfied by the Commissioner's words. "You seem like you worry unnecessarily."

Fan Xian didn't know how to respond. He had merely wanted to show his concern, and in return he was mocked as being unprofessional.

"Before the negotiation is confirmed, I will not say anything." Yan Bingyun looked Fan Xian in the eyes. "I'm just curious, what methods did our Imperial court use to be able to free me from Northern Qi's grasp?"

Without waiting for an answer, Yan Bingyun sighed and said viciously, "Don't tell me the Imperial court was stupid enough to trade the plains of Qianlong Port for useless old me."

"Rest assured, even if I wanted to, His Majesty is not that stupid." Fan Xian shook his head and briefed Mister Yan on the actual negotiation.

The room suddenly sank into a strange silence. Yan Bingyun hung his head and didn't speak for a long time. Suddenly, Fan Xian heard him talk to himself. "Trading Xiao En for me?"

"You idiots!"

Yan Bingyun suddenly raised his head and stared at Fan Xian with a gaze of ridicule and hatred. However, he still managed to calmly keep his voice down.

Chapter 222: The Idealists

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Yan Bingyun's cold, inhuman expression did not shift once. He was indeed an outstanding intelligence operative, but in this moment of anger, he had proven his power and control as Qing's spymaster in Northern Qi. Facing the rage that shot out from this prisoner's eyes, even Fan Xian had subconsciously wanted to take shelter.

Yan Bingyun's lip trembled slightly. In a quiet, quick voice, like an exploding firecracker, he whispered into Fan Xian's ear, "Is Xiao En still under control?"

Fan Xian shook his head. "After Wuduhe, we gave him over to the Northern Qi Brocade Guard. I imagine he has already entered the capital."

"Was there any way to kill him?"

"No."

"Did you get his secret out of him?"

Fan Xian shivered and pulled himself away from Yan Bingyun. He looked at him with his tranquil eyes. "Do you know what his secret is?" he asked.

Yan Bingyun looked at the young Commissioner, and there was a strange movement at the corners of his mouth. "I have spent four years in Northern Qi, and I know that the Northern Qi royal family has thought about Xiao En constantly. Though I don't know what the secret is about... if the Northern Qi royal family regards it as this important, then it cannot be something simple."

After a pause, Yan Bingyun suddenly spoke. "Do you know who Xiao En is?"

Fan Xian nodded and smiled. "I believe I know that better than anyone else."

Yan Bingyun quickly scolded him. "Since you know, how could you allow this to happen?"

Fan Xian looked at him calmly and spoke slowly. "His Majesty and the Director's wishes were clear. Xiao En is old; you are young. So in this deal, we have the upper hand."

Yan Bingyun fell silent again. He hadn't expected that the royal court of Qing would be willing to exchange Xiao En for him, but the fact they had made him feel like something of a failure. He had been captured by the Northern Qi Brocade Guard, which was humiliating in the first place. Now that the royal court had paid such a high price for him, he felt even more humiliated.

He was crestfallen. In his white robes, he seemed to shrink into himself.

Fan Xian looked at him calmly. "You are a smart man. Since things have already been decided, you will return safely to the south. For that, we should consider ourselves lucky."

Yan Bingyun remained silent, his face cold. He knew that this Commissioner of the Overwatch Council, who had appeared out of nowhere, was speaking proper nonsense.

"In three days' time, I will be waiting for you at the diplomatic compound."

Fan Xian smiled. He walked out alongside Wang Qinian. Accompanied by Wei Hua and the vice-provost, who were waiting at the door, they climbed into the carriage and returned to the diplomatic mission compound.

After they had returned, the Qing representatives gathered together to have a debriefing about the past few days' events. Afterwards, they left, leaving behind Fan Xian and Wang Qinian. Fan Xian propped his chin up on his fist and sat in thought. He said nothing for a long time.

"Master Fan, what are you thinking about?" asked Wang Qinian.

"Why did Miss Shen show up?" Fan Xian yawned and continued talking. "Perhaps Northern Qi wanted to interfere with our plans, or at the very least weaken the royal court's confidence in Yan Bingyun."

"How could they?" Wang Qinian was puzzled. "The royal court understands the methods that Master Yan employed."

"Things can always become more complicated," said Fan Xian, his face unmoved. "If someone has resolved to do something, then this could be a snag... besides, there's something I still don't understood. Wang, when we went to see Master Yan, it was clear that he will be able to return home. Why did he look so unhappy?"

"Because the royal court paid too high a price for him to return home." Wang Qinian was an experienced member of the Overwatch Council, and knew much more about the eccentric higher-ups of the Council than Fan Xian did. "If Master Yan knew that we were going to exchange him for Xiao En, perhaps he'd have killed himself the moment he was captured, rather than waiting until now."

Fan Xian seemed to find it hard to understand the psychology of these Overwatch Council officials. "Could... such a brilliant Council official... really..." he considered his wording for a long time before finally speaking carefully. "Could he really be willing to sacrifice himself for the nation like that?"

"Yes." Wang Qinian took a furtive look at Wang Qinian, and saw the dazed look on his face. "I have much admiration for Master Yan," he said respectfully, "but an official of the Overwatch Council or an agent of the royal court should be prepared to sacrifice themselves for the nation the moment they enter the Council. A spy of the Overwatch Council only believes in one thing, and for that goal, any method and any sacrifice is permitted."

"What goal?"

"All for the Kingdom of Qing." There was a slightly crazed look in Wang Qinian's eyes.

Fan Xian's finger unthinkingly traced out a character on the table. When he had met Yan Bingyun for the first time today, he had been sitting calmly on a chair, and his sitting position was somewhat odd, as straight as a javelin, with no part of his body touching the chair save for his buttocks. As he was leaving, Fan Xian had finally realized that his feet were chained to the chair, and there was only one explanation for Yan Bingyun's posture.

There was no part of his flesh that was intact, and he was bruised all over, so that was the only position he could choose.

"All for the Kingdom of Qing?" Fan Xian frowned. "So it's a group of idealists."

A letter from the Qing royal court to the diplomatic mission arrived, sent through official channels. There were, naturally, no secrets contained in the letter. It simply stated that the diplomatic mission was to postpone their return until after the birthday celebrations of Empress Dowager of Northern Qi, and after events were concluded, they were then to return home.

This was of no particular significance. The dealings between the two countries had happened to overlap with the Empress Dowager's birthday, so they might as well go along with it. And while he was in Shangjing, Fan Xian still had a few more matters to take care of, so he was happy to stay a few days longer. That being said, he did miss his wife and his sister, and worried about them somewhat.

"We will be representatives of the royal court for the Empress Dowager's birthday. We must make sure to present a good gift," said vice-envoy Lin Jing, pondering aloud. "Perhaps one of us could take a stroll along Xiushui Street?"

Hearing the words "Xiushui Street" reminded Fan Xian of the letter that the wine merchant had handed him. He shook his head. Shangjing's waters ran deep indeed. The Eldest Princess could still exert control over the internal disorder of a foreign country from her remote fiefdom of Xinyang. Fan Xian wanted nothing to do with it.

"So what shall we send?" Lin Jing had begun to worry about the gift.

Fan Xian had already decided. He waved his hand. "When the time comes, I shall write a poem. Mount it on a good scroll and that should be enough." It sounded arrogant, but the subordinates around him all nodded in unison. The immortal of poetry, Fan Xian, no longer wrote poetry. Everyone knew this. If Fan Xian were to break his rule for the birthday of the Empress Dowager of Northern Qi, then that would be a great gesture indeed.

But... Fan Xian couldn't really write beautifully.

Wang Qinian began to set out another terrible idea. "Master Yan's identity in Northern Qi was as a gifted scholar, skilled in chess, the zither, painting and calligraphy. He is indeed a master calligrapher. Last year, in Northern Qi, one of his scrolls could sell for a thousand taels. If Master Fan composes the poem with Master Yan as scribe, then two young greats of the Kingdom of Qing have contributed to the present. Would that not cause the Empress Dowager of Qi great joy?"

Lin Jing and Lin Wen both knew that Wang Qinian was Fan Xian's trusted aide. They thought his suggestion was quite good. They knew of Master Yan's identity. But they felt something was a little odd about the proposal, and they couldn't figure out what exactly it was.

Fan Xian laughed and scolded him. "What kind of person is Master Yan? I'm afraid that the people of Northern Qi want to eat him alive and drink his blood. You're actually suggesting that we get him to write a scroll and give it to the Empress Dowager as a birthday present. The moment she opens the scroll she'll die from rage. We'd turn her birthday into her funeral."

Wang Qinian was embarrassed, having only just realized the absurdity of his proposal. "If we can kill the Empress Dowager that way," he said laughing shamelessly, "then that'd be quite a tale to tell."

Fan Xian didn't feel much like laughing at Wang Qinian's thoughtless joke. He fell silent in thought. It was clear that if Yan Bingyun returned to Qing safely, it was very likely that - on the basis of his four years of work in Northern Qi and his past year's imprisonment - he would be immediately promoted within the Council. His father Yan Ruohai was head of the Fourth Bureau, and the post of head of the First Bureau was still vacant. The Council was clear: Director Chen was to award the position of head of the First Bureau to Yan Bingyun, the former prisoner.

And if nothing got in the way, Fan Xian would gradually begin to take over the Council - once Chen Pingping died, that was. And Fan Xian knew that day might not come for a long time—or it might well come very soon.

If Fan Xian wanted the Overwatch Council firmly under his control, then he had to get the heads of the Eight Bureaus under his control. This was Fan Xian's biggest weakness. Other than the Third and Eighth Bureaus, he had no trusted connections within the Overwatch Council. He presumed that while he was in the north, he could win Yan Bingyun's friendship, gaining the support of the First Bureau and the Fourth Bureau. But to his surprise, at their first meeting, Fan Xian had a clear feeling that Yan Bingyun felt a secret hostility toward him.

Why was that? Fortunately, Yan Bingyun seemed not to want to hide his hostility, which made Fan Xian feel slightly more relaxed. "Master, it's time." By his side, Wang Qinian reminded him quietly.

Fan Xian nodded, got up, and left the courtyard. Behind him were Lin Jing and Lin Wen, looking at each other in dismay, unsure just where the chief diplomat was headed.

Outside the courtyard stood Chang Ninghou's men. People from the palace had already sent word, so the Imperial Guard responsible for the diplomatic mission had quietly agreed to change over with those men wearing Brocade Guard uniforms, who guarded the carriage as it made its way along Taiping Alley, one of the most dazzling streets in the city. A fine drizzle was falling from the sky, and for a moment, it hid the convoy's tracks.

Today Fan Xian, commissioner of the Overwatch Council of the Kingdom of Qing, was to meet with Master Shen Zhong, Provost of the Discipline Commission of the Brocade Guard of the Kingdom of Qi. This meeting of spymasters was extremely mysterious.

Chapter 223: Meeting Shen Zhong in the Rain

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Raindrops beat upon the roof of the carriage, their impact echoing within. Fan Xian closed his eyes and tried to rest. Some time later - he wasn't sure how long - he found that the carriage had stopped. The carriage door opened. Fan Xian smiled and stepped out into the rain, finding that an umbrella was already being held out for him, shielding him from the elements, with only a slight spring chill making its way through the alley and underneath the umbrella.

Wang Qinian was wearing black, holding the umbrella above Fan Xian's head. Behind him, the seven tiger guards carried their longswords on their backs, silently forming two lines on either side of Fan Xian.

Fan Xian was wearing a dark-colored overcoat with a white gown underneath, and underneath that were the night-walking clothes he had prepared before he left the Qing capital. This way of dressing, with simple and unadorned clothes hiding lethal power underneath, combined with his heroic and vigorous appearance, looked formidable indeed.

"Commissioner Fan. This way please." The Brocade Guard who led the way extended a hand, his face expressionless as he ushered them into the courtyard. In the alley by the side of the courtyard, Fan Xian turned his head slightly, hearing the faint bustle ahead of him. He laughed. "Looks like this is the rear courtyard of a pleasure house."

The Brocade Guard's face was rigid. Then he smiled. "Your hearing is impressive, Commissioner Fan. This is the rear courtyard of Panshanlin. Master Shen likes to entertain guests here."

Fan Xian knew of Panshanlin. He had heard that it was Northern Qi's finest red-light establishment. The first Emperor of Northern Qi was once a frequent guest here. He smiled and nodded, stepping on the wet paving stones into the rear courtyard. In the courtyard, the bamboo formed dense shadows and the rock garden was made up of layers upon layers of stones. Agents of the Brocade Guard were everywhere. These men were clearly guards, and had made no effort to hide themselves.

As they walked, Wang Qinian held the umbrella, the seven Tiger Guards following silently behind, with Fan Xian at the front coolly and confidently walking deeper into the courtyard.

As they walked, watching these enemies from the south, the Brocade Guards could not help but feel somewhat surprised. They were surprised by their counterparts' boldness, and by the youth of their leader who walked in front.

Wang Qinian put away the umbrella and fell in silently behind Fan Xian. Fan Xian rested his hands behind his back and narrowed his eyes as he looked at the courtyard. The room was quite spacious. A large round table with a floral pattern stood in the middle, and there was still a great deal of space around it, filled with all sorts of elaborate decorative items. The table was wide enough to seat 15 or 16 people, but at that moment, only two people were sat around it.

One of them was a man in expensive clothes, with a silk cap on his head and a jade thumb ring on his hand. After he saw Fan Xian enter, an unusual coldness appeared in his otherwise ordinary-looking eyes. He looked Fan Xian straight in the eye, and after a moment, he spoke. "Commissioner Fan? I have been looking forward to meeting you for a long time. Our meeting today is very much out of the ordinary."

Fan Xian did not immediately respond to the man's polite greeting. He was savoring the fact that the Northern Qi Brocade Guards had all addressed him as "Commissioner Fan". It seemed that today's discussion was between the Overwatch Council and the Brocade Guard, rather than being diplomatic negotiations between the governments of the two states. He lifted his right hand and undid the collar around his neck with his two fingers. The overcoat he was wearing slipped off him.

Wang Qinian was already behind him to catch it.

Fan Xian sat on one side of the round table. Looking at this rich man, he saw that his brows were extremely thick, as if they had been painted on. He couldn't help but smile. "Master Shen, if you scowl so at everyone you meet, why are you instead so courteous toward me?"

So this was Master Shen Zhong, Provost of the Discipline Commission of the Brocade Guard. Countless members of the Brocade Guard were under Shen Zhong's control. It was hard to believe that so many dangerous men were led by such an ordinary-looking man. If it weren't for the Overwatch Council's thoroughly detailed files on the man, Fan Xian wouldn't have even been able to guess at his identity.

"It is not courtesy." Provost Shen sighed. Looking at Fan Xian's handsome face, he couldn't help but shake his head. "Master Fan, you are renowned throughout the land as a poet. You have my admiration. I had not imagined that two months ago I would receive the news that Fan Xian, Fan the immortal of poetry, had become a commissioner of the Overwatch Council of the Kingdom of Qing... I... must admit I do not quite understand. What exactly is old Chen thinking? Master Fan, how can someone such as yourself live as we do, scurrying around like rats in the gutter?"

Fan Xian laughed. "Master Shen, you are too modest. Travelling thousands of miles from home to be an official is something one does for money. No matter what one does, first of all one must seek benefit for the state, but after that... one must carve out a life for oneself." [1]

His speech was rather informal. Shen Zhong sighed to himself. He couldn't help but look down on this southerner despite their common profession. After all, he was young and he spoke crudely. He really didn't know what Chen Pingping was thinking, and he didn't know why the South's formidable Emperor would agree to such an absurd arrangement within the Overwatch Council.

In truth, Provost Shen Zhong of the Discipline Commission of the Brocade Guard had always felt an unspeakable envy for his southern counterparts, and a certain respectful fear of that old wheelchair-bound cripple. He had never been able to understand how his southern counterparts had earned the complete trust of the southern Emperor, unlike himself, who stood trembling in the royal court, unsure if one day he would be thrown out of the palace like a pair of worn-out shoes.

Realizing his mind was wandering, Shen Zhong immediately pulled himself together. He knew that this young man was the head diplomat, and he knew why had taken a risk in demanding a meeting with him through Chang Ninghou. There was great benefit to be made in this deal, and both Shen Zhong and the palace were intrigued.

"No one dislikes things like silver and gold." Shen Zhong suddenly smiled. "But I don't understand how the Discipline Commission can benefit from this."

Fan Xian waved a hand, and Wang Qinian and the seven Tiger Guards all retreated. Shen Zhong nodded his head, and the other men in the hall also stepped back. Fan Xian looked at the man who sat next to Shen Zhong, feeling somewhat puzzled. He was wearing fine clothing, but he didn't have that regal air to his appearance that Fan Xian was familiar with. He presumed that he had not been sent to observe by the Northern Qi royal family. In that case, what gave him the right to sit with them?

"This is Master Cui," said Shen Zhong, introducing him.

Master Cui stood up and bowed to Fan Xian, a self-confident look on his face. Fan Xian wrinkled his brow. "A man of Qing?"

Shen Zhong laughed. "I thought you two might recognize each other. Commissioner Fan, this is Master Cui, second son of the Cui clan of Qing. The Cui clan and the Fan clan have always been equals. You are both sons of rich families."

Fan Xian frowned. "Master Shen, what is the meaning of this?"

There was a flash of viciousness in Shen Zhong's eyes. "Master Fan, did you not want to talk business?" he said calmly. "You should know... I have been in this business for many years. So I would like to know how I might stand to benefit, Master Fan."

Fan Xian turned his head to look at Master Cui, trying to see something in his face. "Master Cui," he asked suddenly, "did you come to this meeting of your own accord, or were you asked to by an elder of your clan?"

"How could I miss such an illustrious meeting?" Master Cui seemed to have no fear of Fan Xian at all.

In truth, matters were already very clear. Master Cui was there to represent the interests of the Cui clan, and behind the Cui clan... was the Eldest Princess, far away in Xinyang. Fan Xian had considered the possibility that the Eldest Princess's heavy plundering of the palace treasury had relied on this smuggling route. But what he had not expected was that the Provost of the Brocade Guard's Discipline Commission would bring the Eldest Princess's representative to the table!

And what made Fan Xian even angrier was the fact that that scoundrel Cui dared to sit alongside them, acting as a bargaining chip for the other side in their negotiations. Now that the Eldest Princess was making demands of him, how could he not act to wreck Fan Xian's own business? This was no doubt that pampered brat Cui acting on his own initiative!

Fan Xian had taken the initiative in making contact with Shen Zhong for two reasons. The first was to open up a channel for communication. The second was to strike at the source of Xinyang's finances. He hadn't imagined that the Northern Qi royal court would make such a move, bringing what should have been haggled in secret out into the open.

Seemingly sensing his unhappiness, Shen Zhong smiled. "Master Fan, there's no harm in clarifying things. Everyone wants to make money. Master Cui and you plan to engage in similar business. I wouldn't be able to cooperate with both of you at once, so naturally, I'm interested in what you two have to say on the matter."

Fan Xian calmed down and looked at Cui. "Master Cui," he said calmly, "I didn't expect you to be brave enough to get involved in such serious business."

"Certainly not as brave as you, Master Fan," replied Cui with a smile.

Seeing the awkwardness of the situation, Shen Zhong laughed. "Master Cui is the son of a rich family, and there are a number of important members of the Qing royal court among them. Currently, he is travelling outside the country. In the future, he will enter the court as an official. The two of you should be friends."

Hearing this, Fan Xian laughed grimly to himself and looked at Shen Zhong. "Master Shen, perhaps you have forgotten my status. The matters of aristocratic families are of no importance to me."

Having said this, Fan Xian stood up, saying nothing, and left the hall, where Wang Qinian was ready, holding his umbrella. The seven Tiger Guards gripped their longswords in their hands, guarding their master as he left the courtyard. With such a stern appearance, none of the Brocade Guards dared to block their path.

All that could be heard was the sound of the carriage as Fan Xian left in his rather discourteous way.

Shen Zhong did not seem to have expected such an angry response from Fan Xian. He sat there, rather stunned. He had been deep in the bowels of the bureaucracy for decades, and had seen all sorts of negotiations over profit, but he had never seen something like this. The young Commissioner Fan's conduct really went beyond his expectation.

He turned his head. "Master Cui," he said, smiling warmly, "it seems Master Fan is quite a headstrong fellow."

Cui blushed. Fan Xian's words had pricked his ego. The matters of aristocratic families were none of Fan Xian's concern! Then what was the Fan family to him? He drank from his cup of wine, trying to drown his sorrows, feeling that he had done something wrong.

Shen Zhong looked at him and said nothing.

Suddenly, Cui's hand began to tremble. He thought about Fan Xian's position in the Overwatch Council, and how he was the son-in-law of the Eldest Princess. He went pale with fear. Looking Shen Zhong in the eyes, he suddenly became angry. "Master Shen," he cursed, "you tricked me into coming here! Do you want me dead?"

[1] Fan Xian quotes from Living Hell by Qing dynasty novelist Li Baojia, a novel about malpractice in the judicial system.

Chapter 224: Young Yan Is Freed

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

The night rains fell upon the soil of that foreign land, making their familiar pitter-patter. Fan Xian swallowed a mouthful of tea. "Write a letter immediately," he said to Wang Qinian, who sat beside him. "Tell the Council to investigate the relationship between the Cui clan and Xinyang."

Wang Qinian looked at him. "The Eldest Princess cannot make any sort of move from there."

"I know that." Fan Xian knew full well that everything that the Eldest Princess did was done with the Emperor's tacit consent, but today's confrontational meeting with Shen Zhong had confirmed a number of his ideas. "I just want to know for sure exactly how much strength Xinyang has in the royal court."

"Yes sir," replied Wang Qinian. "Master Cui is still kneeling outside... do you think we should allow him in? After all, the Cui clan is also an influential family in the capital, and they have a number of officials at court."

Fan Xian looked over the reports from the Council, not paying attention to what Wang Qinian had said. These past few days that the diplomatic mission were in Shangjing, before Yan Bingyun returned, Fan Xian had not dared to utilize their information network in Northern Qi, and so their sources of intelligence had been somewhat reduced, which left him worried. A moment later, he seemed to have heard what Wang Qinian had said. "Let him kneel," he said quietly. "A subject of Qing allowing himself to be used by Northern Qi like some kind of tool. I shall teach him a lesson, on my mother-in-law's behalf."

The rain gradually lessened. It dripped down from the eaves of the building. The courtyard was an old one, so the rain droplets fell and formed small pools in certain places. Fan Xian pulled on a robe and walked out, catching sight of Cui, who kneeled before the stone steps. For a long time, he said nothing.

The others in the diplomatic mission had long departed from this area, so all seemed quiet.

"If your family still wishes to do business in the north, you should know what to do." Fan Xian looked coldly at Cui, who was soaked from head to toe. "Regarding today's incident, I shall show mercy. I will send a letter to Xinyang, and as for how the Eldest Princess decides to punish you, that is your business. But while I am in Shangjing, I do not wish to see you sitting alongside men of Northern Qi again."

Master Cui kowtowed deeply, his upper body laid out along the wet ground as he trembled. He didn't dare speak.

"I shall remind you once more. I am the Commissioner of the Overwatch Council. Even if the Eldest Princess protects you, if I wanted to see the Cui clan destroyed, I have many ways to make that happen. That may be a very crude threat, but I think for somebody as stupid as you, if I do not spell it out clearly, you will find yourself being used as a weapon by Northern Qi again. That would be most unfortunate."

Cui remained kneeling miserably. In the rear garden in Panshanlin, he had realized the extent of his error. For the time being, regardless of Fan Xian's position within the fearsome Overwatch Council, he was the son-in-law of the Eldest Princess. In Fan Xian's eyes, he was no more than an ant. Today, he had acted on his own initiative, wanting to see what business the Overwatch Council wanted to carry out with Northern Qi. Originally, he was there to consider issues from the Eldest Princess's position, but if Fan Xian really wanted to make him pay, he feared that she would not be willing to protect him.

When it came to the power that Fan Xian now wielded, the aristocratic families really were of no importance to him at all.

"Let us talk plainly." Fan Xian looked at him, spelling things out slowly. "You work for the Eldest Princess. I don't want to make things difficult for you. But there are some things I want to do, so I hope that you will see the situation clearly."

"Yes, Master Fan," said Cui, shivering. "I have erred."

"We are both subjects of the Kingdom of Qing, regardless of what happens at court. But the moment we set foot on foreign soil, do not forget, we are still men of Qing. We cannot allow the foreigners to see us as a joke. That is what angers me most."

After this little incident, Xinyang made sure to show the diplomatic mission the appropriate respect. And Northern Qi finally felt Fan Xian's true strength. To be exact, they felt the strength of the Overwatch Council. Shen Zhong had made a deal with Xinyang, so when Fan Xian suggested his deal through Chang Ninghou, he thought little of it. But seeing the current situation, it seemed that the rumors were true - if Fan Xian really was going to take control of the palace treasury in the coming years, the Eldest Princess would lose her power. If Shen Zhong's Discipline Commission offended Fan Xian again, that would be a way to cut themselves off from a large share of the profits.

They knew this in the royal palace of Northern Qi too. The Empress Dowager ruthlessly laid the blame on Shen Zhong. Shen Zhong was worried. He hadn't expected Commissioner Fan not to even give him the opportunity to haggle. And the news of Cui kneeling before the diplomatic mission that very night had reached the ears of the Brocade Guard. Shen Zhong knew that he had to see Fan Xian in an entirely new light.

But no one had thought that Fan Xian did not actually want to make the deal at all. A number of times, Shen Zhong dispatched men to entreat Fan Xian; every time, he coldly turned them away, appearing not to want to discuss the matter again.

"Master, what is it that you want to do?" Wang Qinian was Fan Xian's most trusted aide. He knew some things that even the Overwatch Council did not. He knew that his master had done a number of things in secret to make the Eldest Princess pay, but the Eldest Princess seemed not to have noticed.

But now, Fan Xian appeared to be taking a stance of reconciliation toward the Eldest Princess. This puzzled Wang Qinian greatly.

"I want everyone to not know what I am going to do." Fan Xian straightened out his clothes, not turning his head as he spoke. "The Eldest Princess now makes demands of me, and I want to make use of this opportunity to derive some benefit."

Wang Qinian was still confused, and Fan Xian did not explain further.

That afternoon, a carriage entered the diplomatic compound. The carriage looked worse for wear and thoroughly ordinary. Whether it was the decoration of the carriage or the way the coachman looked, there was nothing eye-catching about it. But the guards tasked with protecting the diplomatic mission could sense an air of nervousness from inside the mission. The patchwork of shadows outside all belonged to the Brocade Guard.

Fan Xian looked at the carriage, and said something which seemed to have nothing to do with the current situation. "It looks like Si Lili has also arrived in Shangjing."

A youth wearing white robes opened the carriage doors and slowly stepped out. Standing there, he looked at the sky, narrowed his eyes, then lowered his head and looked around at the people within the courtyard who were staring at him. From looking at them, he could feel the atmosphere in the courtyard. He couldn't stop his lips from curling into a wry smile.

Fan Xian stepped forward, respectfully taking Yan Bingyun's right hand and carefully helping him down from the carriage. "Welcome back," he said gently.

To the people of Qing, the location of the diplomatic mission was the same as enemy territory. Yan Bingyun had been held prisoner and had long believed that he was soon to die. Although the day had come, he still could not accept the agreement that had seen him exchanged for Xiao En. But now, stepping on the ground of the diplomatic mission, and hearing Fan Xian's welcome, he couldn't help but still feel moved.

There were no officials from Honglu Temple in the courtyard. Save for the seven Tiger Guards, everyone else was an official of the Overwatch Council, hidden within the diplomatic mission. Seeing the young man, who had a little difficulty walking, they spoke in unison, kneeling on the ground. "Master Yan, allow us to pay our respects."

Their voices were neither passionate nor loud, but one could feel their sincerity.

Yan Bingyun smiled and said nothing. After a while, he spoke quietly. "It feels strange to have made it out alive."

Fan Xian took his hand and laughed. "Your fingernails haven't been completely pulled out. That is strange."

The two men - the future leader of the Overwatch Council and his future second-in-command - spoke so quietly that only they could hear what they were saying.

With Yan Bingyun returned to the diplomatic mission, half of their duties in Northern Qi were done with. Fan Xian steeled himself, said a few words to Wang Qinian, then helped Yan Bingyun into the bedroom. "Take off your clothes," said Fan Xian, "and I'll see to your injuries."

Clearly, Yan Bingyun was not given to misunderstandings. He slowly took off his white robes, revealing his sculpted naked body. Fan Xian raised his eyebrows and thought of his own feelings when he had changed clothes for the Third Bureau in the Qing capital. Bingyun seemed much more cool-headed than he was.

He took a small box containing medicine from out of a chest, dipped a finger into it, and then began to rub it onto Yan Bingyun's body. The places his fingers passed over were covered with frightful scars and bruises that were difficult to describe.

"I always thought you were simply blessed with good fortune," said Yan Bingyun coldly. "But to remain so calm at the sight of my wounds, it seems you are stronger than I thought."

Fan Xian's fingers stopped on the left side of Yan Bingyun's chest. The bone had clearly been re-set after being broken. It stuck out in a lump, and the flesh surrounding it was red-raw and ugly-looking. "That is because you don't understand what I went through growing up."

"I thought I understood very well." Yan Bingyun stared coldly into Fan Xian's eyes. "Master Fan, I know a lot about your life from your birth to your 12th year."

Fan Xian turned his head to look at him and said nothing.

Yan Bingyun was also silent. It seemed that he didn't want to say any more on the subject. After a while, he spoke. "Thank you for treating my wounds. But I would like to concoct my own medicine. I imagine I am more adept than you at it. Allow me to write a recipe for the prescription, and have the diplomatic mission's men help me in gathering a few ingredients."

Fan Xian paid no attention and continued to apply the salve, using the treatment methods he had learned in his childhood.

"Swallow this." With no regard for politeness, Fan Xian placed a pill into Yan Bingyun's mouth. "When it comes to treating wounds and infections, save for Fei Jie, there's no one who'd dare talk such rubbish in front of me."

Chapter 225: Things Aren't as You Imagined

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

"Who's Fei Jie?"

"Who else has the surname Fei in the Council?"

"You mean old Fei?"

"That old monstrosity, yes." Having finished the preparations, Fan Xian called for a tub of warm water and washed his hands. Drying them, he told Yan Bingyun, "You were under torture too long. They damaged your meridians and greatly crippled your martial abilities."

After saying that, Fan Xian carefully observed Yan Bingyun's face and discovered he was calm, as though he hadn't heard anything. Fan Xian couldn't help but be impressed, and he was even more determined to make this seemingly haughty and aloof young man one of his companions.

"After we return, take good care of yourself. Your nails will eventually grow back. Your bones healed wrong. I'm going let that baldy from the Seventh Bureau break them again and reset them. And with my treatment on top of that, there's no way you'll end up an old cripple like Chen Pingping."

Fan Xian was joking, but it gave Yan Bingyun a strange feeling. There wasn't anyone in the entire Council who would dare to call Director Chen an old cripple!

Yan Bingyun slowly squinted, trying to see the truth behind all of this, like… why Fan Xian had become the Commissioner of the Overwatch Council at such a young age. At that moment, a burning sensation slowly rose from his abdomen to his chest. As indominable as he was, the sudden pain still made Yan Bingyun's brows flinch.

"Don't worry, it's to combat the poison. Since I don't know what kind of poison is in you, the medicine I chose was on the strong side. But with me watching over you, you won't die." Fan Xian helped Yan Bingyun get dressed. "Hang in there."

Sweat began to pour from Yan Bingyun's forehead; he was in extreme pain. In a low voice, he said, "Damn! This is worse than being poisoned. What medicine is this supposed to be?"

Fan Xian was overjoyed. Clapping his hands together, he said in awe, "You just cursed. That's right; who are you putting on that cold front for? Playing cool in front of those Brocade Guards was fine and all, but don't do it in front of me. I've seen enough of it back when I was little."

What he had seen enough of was, of course, that thoroughly cool Uncle Wu Zhu.

"Who taught you to cleanse poison this way? I don't believe you," Yan Bingyun asked in a chilling voice. The medicine Fan Xian applied to Yan Bingyun's wounds also started to hurt.

"I already told you." Fan Xian looked at him with a smile.

A chaotic look flashed in Yan Bingyun's eyes. Forgetting the pain in and on his body, he asked in a coarse voice, "You're Fei Jie's disciple?" His tone was full of surprise. "Fei Jie never had you as a student."

"Who was the one who claimed to know all about me up until I was twelve?" Fan Xian started to pack up the bottles by the bed. "You don't even know who my teacher is."

Yan Bingyun stared at Fan Xian for a while without talking. Fan Xian stared back innocently, staring at Yan's body which was riddled with wounds, and asked quietly, "Brother Yan, how come I always feel you're looking at me in anger?"

That had been a thorn in Fan Xian's heart for some time. Since he wanted to win over Yan Bingyun, he had to know the reason behind such strong negative emotions, or else things wouldn't be easy in the future.

There was a long silence. Yan Bingyun didn't seem to want to talk about it. For some reason, as his pain gradually dissipated, he started to become dizzy. Looking at Fan Xian's handsome face invoked an unfounded hatred. Thinking back on his exhilarating life in Northern Qi, words began to pour from Yan Bingyun's dry lips.

"Sir Commissioner, do you remember that still unsolved murder case in Danzhou five years ago?"

Fan Xian didn't stop packing things away, but he was inwardly surprised. Of course he remembered that murder case; it was the first time in his two lifetimes that he killed someone. Even today, the cold chestnut on that assassin's throat seemed to still be irritating Fan Xian's palm.

"I know what you're talking about." Fan Xian frowned. "What does it have to do with us?"

"That assassin was under the jurisdiction of the Fourth Bureau. Because of that incident, I got chased up north to become a rat."

"That's why you hate me?" Fan Xian sank into silence. A moment later, he suddenly laughed. "I believe you should be grateful."

"Why?" His dizziness faded somewhat, Yan Bingyun regained his indifference after some surprise.

Fan Xian stared into his eyes. "Because I can see it; I can see you were born to be a spy. You enjoy this kind of life… I imagine lurking in Northern Qi for the past four years, being high-strung day and night, was a fulfilling and exciting life for you."

Yan Bingyun replied. "If you think you'd enjoy it, you could try it too."

Fan Xian grinned. Taking his medicine chest, he walked out of the room like a doctor and closed the door behind him. Inconspicuously, he scratched out the sleeping drug from under his fingernail and into the corner of the chest. Fan Xian admonished himself that this would be the one and only time he drugged one of his own. Yan Bingyun was indeed impressive. He was able to quickly regain consciousness despite being under the influence of chloroform. If he found out about being drugged, the relationship between him and Fan Xian would be irreparably damaged.

Hearing what Yan Bingyun said moved Fan Xian greatly. At the same time, Fan Xian felt consolation after knowing the real reason behind Yan Bingyun's unpleasant gaze.

No one could have thought he and Yan Bingyun would share such a strange part of their past. Because of a murder case in Danzhou five years ago, Yan Bingyun was chased up north and became the head spy for the Overwatch Council. Now, five years later, it was none other than Fan Xian who had come to take Yan Bingyun back to Qing. Thinking about this made Fan Xian laugh. Perhaps everything in this world happened in a full circle.

"Sir, Master Shen brought alcohol," A servant said.

Fan Xian waved his hand. "Go receive it. I don't want to see him." The servant bowed and walked out. Fan Xian frowned. He had just finished disciplining Mister Cui when Xinyang's letter came. That Eldest Princess sure was chasing closely behind. Presently, Wang Qinian walked in. "A letter from Sheng Huairen."

Fan Xian read the letter carefully and flashed an expression of surprise. "What are they playing at?" Raising an eyebrow, he entered the back courtyard.

Yan Bingyun was very alert. His hand was already on the saber nearby when Fan Xian opened the door.

"Relax." Fan Xian looked at Yan Bingyun, who still had his eyes closed. "No one here will come to assassinate you."

Yan Bingyun slowly opened his eyes. Looking at Fan Xian's face, there was a glint of harshness in his eyes. "What did you give me? Why have I been feeling dizzy?"

"I used some medicine that would calm your spirits," Fan Xian explained calmly. "The toll on your mental state was too much. If you want to heal quickly, you need adequate sleep. I wasn't expecting your body to be so resistant to the medicine, so it didn't really do much, unfortunately."

With that, the matter of drugging Yan Bingyun was covered up. Fan Xian's pure and most innocent face was the best disguise for secret plots.

Yan Bingyun knew Fan Xian came into the room for a reason. Looking at Fan Xian's hand, Yan Bingyun asked, "What is it, Sir Fan?"

Fan Xian shook the letter in his hand and laughed. "A letter from Eldest Princess."

Yan Bingyun was surprised, but he didn't show it on his face. He asked blandly, "What does it have to do with me?"

"Before we return to the capital, you are still the leading spy of the Overwatch Council." Fan Xian smiled. "That's why I have to ask for your opinion about what the Imperial court wants to do."

"Please continue." Yan Bingyun was unmoved.

After hearing the contents of the two letters, Yan Bingyun frowned. With some silver strands in his brows, he looked feeble. He asked quietly, "Why does Eldest Princess want to be involved with these things?"

Fan Xian said, "I'm only here for your opinion. Regarding this matter, does the Council need to be involved?"

Yan Bingyun shook his head. "The Council wants Xiao En dead, but Eldest Princess want us to cooperate with Shang Shanhu and rescue Xiao En. Two opposite objectives; how can we cooperate?"

Fan Xian took a seat. Looking at Yan Bingyun's cold face, he said, "Putting that issue aside, I need you to tell me about Northern Qi's current political situation."

Yan Bingyun gave Fan Xian a look and raised three fingers, "There are three factions. One is the empress dowager's, one is the emperor's, and the other one is Shang Shanhu's… However, since Shang Shanhu has moved back to Shangjing, his power has been greatly reduced. He must choose to side with either the emperor or the empress dowager."

He spoke simply, but made very confident deductions—Fan Xian was silent, and then signaled Yan Bingyun to continue. "Going along with your views, if Xiao En is Shang Shanhu's adoptive father, and if Ku He wants Xiao En dead, then Shang Shanhu is bound side with the emperor.

"Why?"

"Because the empress dowager is bound to listen to Ku He."

Fan Xian raised his eyebrows and said hesitantly, "True, the empress dowager is still quite young… but does Ku He still have those kinds of thoughts?"

That caught Yan Bingyun off guard. It wasn't until moments later that Yan Bingyun realized the young Commissioner misunderstood. Yan Bingyun gave Fan Xian a look of disdain and said, "Things aren't as you imagined."

Chapter 226: The Plot

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Yan Bingyun explained past events to Fan Xian.

After the Kingdom of Qing's Third Northern Expedition, the Zhan clan took advantage of the situation, founding the Kingdom of Qi. However, the founding Emperor unfortunately passed away before the twelfth year of his rule, leaving behind the Empress Dowager and the Emperor, who was then only a few years old, to fill the void at the palace.

Although the Kingdom of Qing had halted their northern advance, the cruel Chen Pingping was unwilling to let such an opportunity go to waste. Secretly, he funneled money to and instigated dissent among a number of nobles of the former dynasty and cadet branches of the Zhan clan in Shangjing. Ultimately, this led to a situation in which they attempted to force the Emperor to abdicate. Seeing that the Empress Dowager and the young, fatherless Emperor were about to be ejected from the palace by this rebel faction, Ku He entered the palace, using his status as a friend and teacher of the recently-deceased Emperor Zhan Qingfeng.

At that moment, 3,000 troops surrounded the palace. Ku He sat in front of the great hall. Behind him were the miserable mother and child, and a battalion of trembling palace maids and eunuchs, clutching candlesticks and brooms.

Facing the countless spears and arrows pointed at them, Ku He sat alone in front of the great hall. No one dared to move a muscle.

Then the older brother of the Empress Dowager, Chang Ninghou, crawled through a sewage hole out of the palace, secretly making contact with Shen Zhong of the Brocade Guard and linking up with a royalist group. They launched their counterattack in the palace, and under extremely dangerous circumstances, managed to stabilize the situation in Shangjing.

After that incident, Ku He did not investigate the matter, and the Empress Dowager also kept her silence. Those nobles who had tried to force abdication were not harmed at the time, but in the days afterward, they did not meet good ends.

So no matter which way one looked at it, the Empress Dowager's peaceful reign within the palace was all thanks to Ku He's popularity, and his incomprehensible strength.

"Ku He is so cool." Fan Xian clapped his thighs and sighed in amazement. "One man keeping back thousands of troops. 'Going forward against thousands.' So damn strong." [1]

Yan Bingyun looked at Fan Xian. His speech was rather vulgar, he thought, and did not show the proper respect to the revered four grandmasters. "Ku He is one of the four grandmasters. He considers himself above earthly matters. But if he declares a position on a matter, then everyone, no matter who it is, will find themselves restrained somewhat by fear."

Fan Xian shook his head. "When it came to those idiots who tried to force the Emperor to abdicate, I don't think Ku He could really have done anything against a hail of thousands of arrows."

"Ku He had taken a blood oath to kill whoever dared to sit upon the Dragon Throne." Yan Bingyun suddenly felt as though this Council Commissioner had become somewhat childlike. "With Ku He's terrifying strength, anyone in the north who he wanted killed would be dead. The moment their buttocks touched the Dragon Throne, they would find their heads separated from their shoulders. Who would want to be Emperor when they couldn't guarantee their own life?"

"A grandmaster?" Fan Xian frowned. For the first time, he felt that this extraordinary existence was quiet a troublesome one.

"What? Master Fan, you are young and promising. Do you not pay any attention to the grandmasters?" Yan Bingyun looked at him coldly.

Fan Xian smiled and said nothing. Of the world's four grandmasters, he had only seen Ye Liuyun. At the time, he just felt that he was singing quite a pretty song. As for the mysterious Wu Zhu, who in truth was an equal of the four grandmasters... Fan Xian had grown up with him, so he couldn't get particularly excited about him.

"Tell me more about matters in Shangjing," said Fan Xian, waving a hand to urge him to carry on. "If the Empress Dowager listens to Ku He, and Ku He wants Xiao En dead..."

Yan Bingyun interrupted. "How are you so sure that Ku He wants Xiao En dead?"

"I have my sources." Fan Xian laughed. He hadn't mentioned Haitang's name, or the secret of the temple. "So Shang Shanhu must take the Emperor's side, gathering up all the strength of the Emperor's faction, and only then will they be able to protect Xiao En's life... Master Yan, is there any plan we could make to be able to stand to gain from all this?"

Yan Bingyun shook his head, then suddenly thought of something. He smiled. "In fact, when it comes to power, Northern Qi has never been weak. Over these past four years, I have seen much... but I believe that when compared to Qing, Northern Qi will never be able to claim victory."

Fan Xian wasn't sure why he had come out with this conclusion. He had some doubts. Yan Bingyun laughed happily. "With the royal court sending Xiao En north, within a year, the balance and peace that the Empress Dowager and the Emperor have worked so hard to maintain will be broken. I am quite in awe... in awe of those in the royal court who made such a plan."

The one who plotted to send Xiao En back was the Eldest Princess. Fan Xian's expression remained calm, but he laughed grimly to himself. "There is nothing to admire. You know that you were the price of this transaction."

"What do you mean?" said Yan Bingyun, frowning.

"It was the Eldest Princess who singlehandedly sold you out to the Qi royal court, then arranged with Shang Shanhu to have Xiao En returned to the North... even if the unrest in the Qi royal court was a result of matters with Xiao En, do you really think it could make such great waves? You're simply a pawn in the hands of the nobles. A pawn should be aware of his status as a pawn. For you to have such admiration for someone who holds you in the palm of their hand... I don't understand it at all."

Fan Xian's words were harsh and carefully chosen. He wanted to plant a seed of hatred for the Eldest Princess within Yan Bingyun's heart. To his surprise, Yan Bingyun's face remained calm, as if he hadn't heard him say anything, and instead he continued to outline his plan. "We can't interfere in this matter. The diplomatic mission is stationed on foreign soil, and since Ku He has made a decision on whether Xiao En may live or die, we cannot interfere - nor is there any need to."

"I agree," said Fan Xian, looking at him. "But there's something else that I need your opinion on."

Fan Xian told Yan Bingyun about the past few days' events with Master Cui. "What do you plan to do?" asked Yan Bingyun, his face unmoved.

Fan Xian was silent for a while, but since he had already broached the topic, he decided to continue talking. "The Council believes that we should gradually reduce the amount of profit that Xinyang is making from the north."

"That's what the Council believes?" asked Yan Bingyun calmly, looking Fan Xian in the eye. "I hear that you may be taking control of the palace treasury in the years to come, Master Fan."

Fan Xian smiled as if he hadn't heard Yan Bingyun say this. "Master Yan, you have been imprisoned for the best part of a year, and yet you're still so well-informed."

There was a long silence before Yan Bingyun suddenly spoke. "Why are you telling this to me?"

"Because you are most familiar with the lay of the land in the north. If in the future there is ever a need to tighten our net... From now on, I must keep a careful eye out, and with you back in Qing, I will have no strength in the north."

"You have great faith in me, Master Fan," said Yan Bingyun calmly.

"I never presumed you were merely a simple patient," said Fan Xian coldly. "I believe that if you wanted to, Master Yan, you could still stir up trouble in the north."

"Why should I help you?"

"Because I am your superior officer." Fan Xian's face gradually turned cold. "I am not asking for your help. I am demanding your cooperation."

Yan Bingyun could not accept this. He laughed coldly. "On the day that you do take control of the Overwatch Council, Commissioner Fan, we will have this discussion again."

Fan Xian smiled and waved his hand. "I know it's not useful to discuss such things." He paused for a moment. "In truth, my reasoning is simple. The Eldest Princess is our common enemy. Not only do I need you, but I believe that you also need me."

Yan Bingyun did not spend long in thought. He gently nodded, then spoke directly. "As that is the case, then I must speak plainly. Your plan has been completely wrong from the start."

"Why do you say so?"

"If you want to gradually reduce the profit that the Eldest Princess makes from smuggling, then you should not look to Shen Zhong."

"Shen Zhong is the Provost of the Discipline Commission of the Brocade Guard. If he's not the key, then who in the north is?"

Yan Bingyun looked him in the eyes. "Shen Zhong and Chang Ninghou are both trusted aides of the Empress Dowager... They have been involved in the Eldest Princess's dealings for many years... If you want to start from scratch, why not seek out the young Emperor?"

Fan Xian sighed. "Because I am not sure what the Emperor's true thoughts are."

"The Emperor of Northern Qi is a clean and honest person. It is very easy to excite him." Yan Bingyun pointed a finger upward. "A clean and honest radical faction requires money."

Fan Xian looked at him for a moment in silence. "I trust you," he said.

"Now I deserve your trust," said Yan Bingyun.

Fan Xian gave a secret sigh of relief and patted him on the shoulder. "Relax. Although the world is theirs for now, it will be ours in the end." He left the room, leaving Yan Bingyun to ruminate on his odd words.

Over the next three days, the diplomatic mission still dealt with diplomatic affairs in the north. Head diplomat Fan Xian and Yan Bingyun plotted in their chambers. Gradually, Yan Bingyun no longer concealed anything from him, providing him with analysis of all the information he had, and very clearly establishing the ideas that would guide Fan Xian's future actions.

It was better to move than to stay put; Xinyang was waiting to make their move, as was the Empress Dowager. Contact only needed to be made with the palace. Fan Xian considered whether he should go to pay his respects to Shang Shanhu, but Yan Bingyun coldly dismissed the idea.

Yan Bingyun did not consider such things to be necessary. If he needed to do so, he would knock on his door. In Yan Bingyun's expert eyes, everything that Fan Xian had done since entering Shangjing had been a complete mess.

Fan Xian received his advice silently, knowing that in such matters, he was no match for Yan Bingyun. In their chats, they had mentioned reintegrating their spy network in the north, but Yan Bingyun was clearly concerned about his capabilities, so he did not yield.

After dining one day, Fan Xian suddenly spoke. "That daughter of Shen's was quite capable. If she knew you were hidden within the diplomatic mission, she would come calling."

Yan Bingyun's face was like ice, completely unconcerned for others. "Let Shen Zhong know that he can handle his own daughter's affairs."

Fan Xian looked at him. He didn't understand how this young official could have cultivated such a heartless and detached outlook.

[1] "Going forward against thousands" is a quote from Mencius.

Chapter 227: A Real Man Loves His Children

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Things had settled down in the Qing diplomatic mission. It was others' turn to worry. Shopkeeper Sheng came by frequently to deliver wine, obediently passing on greetings from Xinyang. Shen Zhong also sent a number of invitations to Fan Xian, who found various excuses each time to turn them away. Shen Zhong had no way of expressing his anger. Instead, it was Chang Ninghou who was pained by the revenue that had been snatched away from him, sullenly urging Shen Zhong to press on.

Perhaps there was some kind of agreement between the Eldest Princess and Shang Shanhu, but Xinyang did not have a particularly established base in Northern Qi. They had always needed the strength and support of the Overwatch Council. Persuaded by Fan Xian, Yan Bingyun had finally agreed to his plan, and they were preparing to utilize the network that had been built over the past four years.

News from the south suggested that all was peaceful in the Qing royal court, but a report from the Overwatch Council mentioned a number of particularly strange recent cases at Shandong Road; although those killed were commoners, the methods used were particularly violent. It was a case for the Ministry of Justice, but they had turned up nothing, so now the Fourth Bureau of the Overwatch Council had taken up the case.

Fan Xian didn't pay much attention to this case, and neither did Yan Bingyun. After all, matters in Shangjing were enough of a headache as they were, and the two of them were busy making their plans.

The reasons Fan Xian had for turning down all his invitations were sufficient, because over the past two days he had been chatting with that country girl. Thanks to that country girl's identity, whether it was Shen Zhong or Chang Ninghou, no one would dare steal her guest away from her.

In Shangjing's quiet alleyways, the pair strolled and chatted, their words flowing freely, causing a swarm of butterflies perched on a nearby shrub to scatter.

"Nature is composed of heaven and earth. Man is part of heaven and earth. When we say that man is part of nature, it means that human affairs must follow the path of nature. Then both will be in harmony."

"Harmony is merely appearance. What do you believe to be the difference between 'man being part of nature' and 'man being in communication with nature'?"

"Oh, on that, I am unsure. I simply feel that if man follows the law of earth, earth follows the law of heaven, heaven follows the way, and the way follows the law of nature, and thus all can be in harmony."

"Is that still harmony?"

"The greatest harmony."

"What you have said today is quite enlightening, Master Fan. I am in awe." Though she professed her admiration, the country girl Haitang still stuck her hands in her pockets and elongated her steps, walking down the city streets like a lazy rural woman without the slightest hint of admiration on her face.

Fan Xian rubbed his nose, laughing at himself. He thought it was lucky that the streets were quiet, because if he copied Haitang's sweeping steps like he had that day in the palace, anyone looking at them might have died laughing. Seeming to have guessed what he was thinking, Haitang spoke. "I just feel it's more comfortable to walk this way. As for how other people see me, I don't really care."

Fan Xian thought for a moment. She was right. People love comfort and hate work, and this way of walking was indeed more comfortable than walking with one's head high and chest stuck out. The question was, if you really were lazy, why not lie in bed? As he thought about it, he found himself speaking without thinking. "I still feel it's more comfortable to lie in bed. If you wanted, Haitang, we could lie in bed and discuss literature..."

Haitang looked at him.

Fan Xian laughed, embarrassed, and explained nothing. He didn't feel any particular attraction toward Haitang, but he didn't know why walking and talking with her always made him feel so relaxed.

After he was reborn, Fan Xian had always wanted to experience many interesting things and meet many interesting people. This trip to Northern Qi was taken, to a large extent, in order to fulfill this psychological need. Although he had come as part of an assassination plot, things had not been all that interesting. But having met Yan Bingyun and Haitang, both interesting people, he felt it was quite worthwhile.

"Master Fan," Haitang began calmly, "I hear that you met with Shen Zhong the other day?" She extended a hand to pull a branch off a tree. Summer was slowly arriving, but the past few days' dense rain meant that the temperature was still cool, and the branches and leaves still remained as they had been in spring.

Fan Xian nodded. "We did not part on good terms." He knew that although Ku He considered himself above court politics, it seemed that he was more inclined to lend his power to the Empress Dowager's side, so he guessed why Haitang had asked such a question.

"Not on good terms?" Haitang smiled, her ordinary face looking particularly gentle. "I was just curious. If you retract your proposal so hastily, do you not fear the effects it will have on your reputation as an official when you return south?"

Fan Xian's heart skipped a beat, but his face did not change. "I don't quite understand what you mean."

"The Empress Dowager was quite intrigued by your proposal," said Haitang.

Fan Xian's face dropped slightly. "Haitang, you should know that these past few days, I have been turning down all invitations. The reason why I am speaking and walking with you is entirely because I feel that even though you attacked me at Wuduhe, you are an extraordinary person, and we would not talk about such mundane business affairs... Haitang, I must admit I am rather disappointed in you."

"If I did not talk of such things, perhaps you would feel even more disappointed, Master Fan." Haitang's mind was set, and she would not be dissuaded by Fan Xian's flowery words. "The Empress Dowager wishes to invite you to the palace."

Fan Xian laughed and cupped his hands in salute. "I must thank you for passing on the message."

"Master Fan, you said before that truth is the way of Heaven, and achieving truth is the way of man." Haitang's eyes sparkled like jade as she fixed Fan Xian with a look that made him feel distracted. "Since you know the way, how can you not follow it? Would it not be easier for you to achieve truth?"

Fan Xian took a deep breath, and slowly circulated that strange and powerful zhenqi through his body, resisting the pressure that Haitang put on it. He smiled. "There are greater and lesser ways for man to achieve truth. Truth toward people is the lesser way. Truth toward Heaven is the greater way... If you wish to be truthful toward people, Haitang, then why not tell me of the secret that Xiao En holds, if it is something that can spur even one as great as your master to action?"

"And what of being truthful toward all that is under Heaven?" Haitang's lips curled into a smile. "My master is truthful toward All-Under-Heaven, and thus he cannot say much. But if the secret that Xiao En has kept for twenty years were to reach the masses, then I fear decades of chaos would beset the world."

Fan Xian was somewhat stunned. He knew something that others did not - what danger could the temple hold, according to Haitang?

The two returned to discussing the way, and the mysteries of theology and philosophy. In any case, Fan Xian had knowledge of the fundamentals of philosophy from his previous life. He drew from the theories of Dong Zhongshu, Lu Jiuyuan, and Wang Yangming, leaving Haitang quite surprised. Only many years later, as Haitang reflected on it, would she begin to collate the theories of the gifted scholar Fan, and realize that the young man had said nothing of value.

For some reason, as spring turned to summer in Shangjing, the rains were plentiful. What had been faintly warm spring sunshine turned to cold winds, and the raindrops fell from the branches and splashed onto their heads.

With a whoosh, Fan Xian opened up his canvas umbrella, holding it over Haitang's head. In ordinary circumstances, someone of Fan Xian's status would have a subordinate hold an umbrella over them when outside. But at that moment it was only the two of them, and purely in terms of status, it was only right that he hold the umbrella for Haitang.

The water slowly drenched the street. Fan Xian looked calmly at the people around them hiding from the rain. In fact, he was carefully observing Haitang's steps. The ground was wet beneath their boots, and Fan Xian had long since given up on copying the country girl's steps. Now he wanted to see how she would walk.

Haitang walked the same as before.

Fan Xian shrugged helplessly. He discovered that although Haitang's feet dragged across the puddles, it seemed that there was some kind of invisble strength below her boots, dragging her whole body along, so that the bottom of her boots did not make contact with the water at all! This was a kind of power that Fan Xian thought he could never achieve. He couldn't help but laugh at himself. "Haitang, you float upon the water."

Haitang paid him no mind and carried on walking.

Fan Xian sighed. "There is no way walking that way can be comfortable."

"I don't like that Yan Bingyun fellow," said Haitang suddenly.

"I think that since you've always lived deep within the mountains and the palace, you must not have had much contact with him."

"Deceiving women for his own benefit; I think it is rather shameful."

"We are officials. We are not ordinary people." Fan Xian was explaining on Yan Bingyun's behalf. He did not want young Master Yan to be remembered by this powerful upper-ninth level master for all his life. "For the benefit of the Kingdom of Qing, there are some things that we have no choice but to do."

"Ugliness is ugliness. Don't try to cover it up with the excuse of being an official."

Fan Xian smiled. "Although he who is without mercy may not necessarily be a true hero, if one's heart is too soft, how can one survive in this chaotic world?" [1]

"Do you believe that this world is chaotic, Master Fan?"

"Man's thoughts are chaotic."

"Do you believe that a chaotic world may produce heroes, Master Fan?"

"One should not seek to establish a legacy as a hero; one should merely seek to be a man of character with a clear conscience."

The two chatted some more before stopping outside a small temple. Oddly, at that moment, the rain seemed to have stopped. They were far on the outskirts of the city, and all was quiet, with no one around them.

Leaves fell upon the stone steps of the temple.

The temple door slowly opened. Fan Xian saw a woman inside, sitting before a shrine. Somewhat despondent, he bowed. "Lady Si. It has been some time."

Haitang smiled. "Master Fan, you wish to be a man of character. Who would have thought that it was just as I expected? You have tender feelings for the fairer sex."

With a swish, Fan Xian folded up the dripping umbrella. He looked at Si Lili, who had gotten up to greet him, and smiled. "He who is without mercy may not necessarily be a true hero, but a real man is one who loves his children."

[1] Fan Xian quotes from Lu Xun's Riposte to a Friend - "He who is without mercy may not necessarily be a true hero/but a real man is one who loves his children. Even the tiger who roars with the wind/turns back to look at her own tiny cubs."