Planning

Chen Ping'an had occasionally heard the discussions among the people at the garrison. Not with his own ears—these people were not that bold—but by questioning the elite constables he had brought with him.

While waiting for a reply from the Wei River Town Pacification Office, Chen Ping'an cultivated at the Five Peaks Mountain Garrison as usual, untouched by the clamor of the outside world.

Apart from cultivating over the past few days, he had made a special trip to Five Peaks Mountain City. As before, he had gone to Guan Yuping's residence.

Guan Yuping reclined on a long chair, enjoying a maidservant's gentle massage. Wan Yuanze stood before him, reporting on the situation outside.

"Lord Guan, Chen Ping'an is outside the door. He says he wishes to see you."

"Oh?" A trace of mockery surfaced on Guan Yuping's face. "He really can't keep his cool. Not to mention how frequently he sent letters these past few days—it's only been a few days, and he has come knocking himself?"

"Perhaps Your Excellency has delayed returning to the garrison, while he bears a three-month deadline. He is a bit unable to sit still, growing anxious." Wan Yuanze cupped his fist and spoke softly.

"Unable to sit still? He is young after all! With such a restless, impetuous heart, how can he accomplish anything great?" Guan Yuping wore an amused expression. "As for that three-month deadline, that was not what he said in his letters these past few days. Did he not say that his investigation into Feng Shixian had already made progress, and that he hoped I would return to the garrison soon because he needed to report to me in person?"

"It is likely merely an excuse. He wants to deceive Your Excellency into returning first, so that his assigned duties