Night had fallen. Heaven Dou City, Seven Treasure Pavilion.
Cool moonlight spilled across the courtyard, draping the ancient garden in a silvery veil.
"Teacher, I'm truly sorry to disturb you so late."
With a suitably apologetic expression on her face, Xue Qinghe spoke as they walked. "It's just that Imperial Father summoned me again just now. He said... he wanted me to try and recruit Young Friend Xuan Hao."
"Imperial Father's meaning was that, although there was some unpleasantness, a gifted young man like Xuan Hao had limitless potential. If we could recruit him under the Imperial Family, then the little humiliation Xue Beng suffered before would amount to nothing."
"But..."
Xue Qinghe sighed, a faint frown appearing between her brows. "I know this cannot be rushed. After all, Xue Beng just offended him badly. If I approach him rashly now, it may very well have the opposite effect. That's why I came to ask Teacher for advice."
"His Majesty is indeed eager for talent."
Ning Fengzhi nodded, unsurprised. Emperor Xue Ye was a competent ruler. In the face of genuine interests, things like pride could be set aside for the time being.
"However, Your Highness is right. This matter truly cannot be rushed."
Ning Fengzhi stopped and pointed toward the pavilion ahead. "That child is proud by nature. He responds to kindness, not force. Pressing him too hard will only make him resentful."
"And your timing is perfect. Young Friend Xuan Hao happens to be a guest here right now."
"Oh?"
Xue Qinghe raised her brows in feigned surprise. "What a coincidence. It seems my luck is quite good today."
In truth, she had originally planned to look for Xuan Hao at the Royal Hotel. But before she had even left, she received word that Xuan Hao had come