Xu Yi said, "My lord jests. What reputation could I possibly have? The rumors outside are nothing but exaggerations. Besides, I may have some skill at composing poems about things I see, but as for anything else, I truly dare not claim any ability. I hope you'll forgive me."
He Beiyi sneered. "So the rumors are all false, and you're nothing but a fraud who made a name for himself through deceit. The Traveler Department has no use for men without ability. You'd best turn around and go back."
Xu Yi's expression turned cold. He said in a low voice, "If my lord insists on seeing what I can do, I can hardly keep hiding my abilities. To be honest, my lord, I did learn a secret art from an eccentric. It's called Words Manifest Intent. My cultivation isn't refined enough to make you unable to stand up from your seat, but if you stand up first, I can make you sit back down. If my lord wishes to test it, we can try right now."
He Beiyi slapped the table and rose to his feet. "I'd like to see what kind of divine ability you've cultivated, that you think you can make me move as you please." Xu Yi clasped his fists. "This subordinate is unworthy, my lord. Aren't you already standing?"
He Beiyi froze for a moment, then realized what had happened and dropped right back into his seat. He said sharply, "That was just a trick with words. You haven't actually got the ability to make me stand up and then sit—"
He couldn't finish. He glared at Xu Yi and said darkly, "You're certainly quick-witted. But the Traveler Department doesn't keep men who can only wag their tongues. We need worthy men skilled in both letters