The undercurrents were surging.
The contest between Southern Taylor and Northern Jiang En was still unresolved, and now a martial arts secret art, Qian Ji Jue, had surfaced. Even the Alliance Leader of Shangjing—no, the city official—was itching to get involved, sending his daughter to sound things out.
With every little move came a whole slew of complications. Though Fu Qian had stayed out of worldly affairs for many years, he still couldn't help sighing at how eventful these times were.
"Chief Yuan."
The young Lady Gan Baobao had seized her chance to come over.
It was also a relief that she was the first to greet Yuan Shan.
It was hardly surprising that Gan Zuoxun had sent his daughter.
Yuan Shan had made it clear she wanted some peace and quiet, and bringing the two key figures, one public and one behind the scenes, together would have made the atmosphere a little too intense.
The young girl still looked a little green, but she was clearly carrying out her father's instructions to the letter.
She did her best to be proper, making sure to greet Fu Qian during their conversation, while showing no interest in gossip about the two of them arriving together.
"Chief Yuan was right. It's a lovely evening."
Fu Qian was naturally pleased. While the two ladies talked, he happily demolished the architecture on his plate.
"It's not often you're so kind. Jiang En really hasn't had an easy time lately, and neither has the Chen Clan."
No upheaval had been necessary. The charity gala eventually came to a cheerful close.
On the way back, Yuan Shan was driving. She couldn't hide her astonishment at the few words Fu Qian had used to shift the balance.
"Ever since the last incident, the Chen Clan hasn't