Especially since Yuan Zhongwen, the elderly and frail Palace Master of the Big Dipper Palace, seemed poised to step down.
The Big Dipper Palace had serious problems within its ranks. Xu Yi felt this might be the perfect chance to get involved.
He already had two identities, but with more friends came more roads, and with more identities came more lives. He could never have too many.
Li Tieya said, "Brother Xue, rest assured. Since you trust me, I won't let you down.
"Not for anyone else's sake, but for Brother Sui's.
"And I'm not without connections of my own. Chen Fanghai, one of the two Palace Elders of the Big Dipper Palace, is our backer. He was the one who recruited us in the first place.
"He's always had a fondness for heroes and never cared about convention. If he hears that Brother Xue wants to join us, he'll definitely come welcome you in person.
"With your strength, Brother Xue, you'd naturally rank above me."
Xu Yi waved a hand. "Let's see how things unfold. To be honest, ever since the great clans fell, the Starry Sky Ancient Path has grown murkier by the day. I'm helpless too, and can only look for a shore to moor at."
Li Tieya nodded in deep agreement and raised his cup. "Let's drink to the past."
Just as they raised their cups to drink, a voice rang out: "The Prefectural Judge is here! All officials, come out to welcome him."
Li Tieya's face immediately darkened. Behind him, Li Xin curled his lip. "Wu Zui really knows how to put on a show."
"Don't be rude. He's the Prefectural Judge."
Li Tieya rebuked him sternly, then led the officials out to greet their visitor.
Xu Yi rose as well, taking his place in