The Phone Call

The fourth guest let them in but appeared uncomfortable. Even when they presented the gift from Head Master Fei, the guest rejected it, saying they didn't need it.

The subordinate left feeling perplexed. The fourth guest had rejected the gift and did not offer any commitment. The meeting had been awkward throughout.

The visits to subsequent guests went awry as well. The next guest didn't even let them in, claiming they were not present at the moment or they were currently busy. Other guests turned them away coldly.

Some guests even became angry, accusing them of bribery.

The representatives sent to the lesser houses faced the same responses. Although these people were typically easier to bribe, their gifts were also turned away.

The subordinate and his team were confused about what was happening.