He Zhiqiu continued angrily, "The foundation upon which the Myriad Treasures Building stands is trust. What you did today is no different from tearing down our own Great Wall. If word spreads, how will clients across the world view the Myriad Treasures Building? With our reputation swept into the dirt, can you bear the responsibility?!"
With a thud, Elder Ma dropped to his knees, his voice trembling. "Building Master, this subordinate knows his mistake. This subordinate was merely muddleheaded for a moment. I beg the Building Master for mercy."
"Mercy?" He Zhiqiu sneered, his tone resolute. "Without rules, there can be no circles or squares! If you are not severely punished, everyone will follow your example in the future. What would remain of the Building's rules?"
"Effective immediately, you are stripped of your position as an Elder with real authority and demoted to an ordinary Elder. You are barred from all core affairs and confined to reflect on your mistakes. We will discuss reinstatement only when you have truly recognized your error. Get out!"
Two stewards with powerful auras stepped forward expressionlessly and dragged away Elder Ma, whose face had gone ashen as he begged repeatedly for mercy.
The grand hall fell silent.
Only then did He Zhiqiu turn to Chu Jiang, some warmth returning to his face. "Young Friend Chu, are you satisfied with this handling?"
Chu Jiang's expression remained calm. Cupping his hands, he said, "Building Master He enforces the law like a mountain, worthy of admiration. This is an internal matter of the Myriad Treasures Building. Since the Building Master handled it according to the rules, it is naturally fair."
He Zhiqiu nodded. "Young Friend is truly righteous and understanding. Since that is so, let us not delay any longer. We will open your account and retrieve