At the mention of the Beastfolk, Tang Qi was wide awake.
After all, they were the reason the entire town had fled.
So he took out a gold coin and flicked it into Chuck's hand. Rather than reveal who he was just yet, he walked along and probed,
"Weren't the Beastfolk stopped beyond the Southern Great Wall? That's a long way from here. Why would Dragon Gold City declare martial law?"
Chuck was delighted that the gentleman knew how to play along, and his enthusiasm grew.
Walking ahead to lead the way, he explained in greater detail,
"The news came from inside the city. Apparently, half a month ago, that Star Plum Tycoon, Mel Barry, reported to the Dragon Political Hall that his territory had been attacked by Beastfolk.
This gentleman is one of the few people in the city who truly owns land and made his fortune from it—a genuine noble.
Though I've heard the lords in noble circles all think he reeks of farm manure, nobody would say such things to his face.
After all, the fortune he makes every year from selling Star Plum Wine and fruit pulp could easily buy the manors of some down-on-their-luck nobles.
And he's never stingy with his gold. Every week, he holds a ball at his estate and invites the nobles to attend.
People all suspect he's trying to secure a seat as a Masked Lord."
Tang Qi glanced back at Melard and noticed a sudden burst of confidence radiating from the little white pig.
Hey, they're calling your whole family country bumpkins who like to throw money around. Why are you acting proud?
He continued to fish for information,
"So the Beastfolk destroyed his territory? Dragon Gold City didn't send troops to stop them? Why is the city still under