Zheng Shangming finally found the chance to pay a visit, specifically inviting Jiang Wang out for a meal and drinks.
Jiang Wang played peacemaker, introducing Zheng Shangming and Lian Que.
When the feast ended, all the guests were pleased.
Zheng Shangming wanted to befriend Jiang Wang, so he was warm toward the friends Jiang Wang had made when he was still "poor and obscure." Lian Que, meanwhile, needed to build up his influence on all fronts and establish himself as the Lian Family's young master as soon as possible.
Of course, what sort of relationship they would ultimately forge depended on how their future cooperation went.
On May 20, the list for the Yellow River Assembly, drawn up by the Administration Hall, was submitted to the emperor for review.
There was no need to keep it secret, so the list submitted that morning was already known throughout Linzi by the afternoon.
The three candidates for the Inner Palace realm were Baron of Green Sheep Town Jiang Wang, young master of the Lei Clan Lei Zhangan, and Cui Zhu, deputy general of the Lightning Jailer Army.
The three candidates for the Outer Tower realm were Bao Bozhao, eldest son of the Earl of Shuofang; Xie Baoshu, nephew of Court Consultant Xie Huaian; and Chao Yu, commander of the Winter Silence Army.
People like Baizhi, Mo Liancheng, Biwu, and Yang Jing had never stood a chance of making the shortlist.
As for the unrestricted contest for those under thirty, the Administration Hall submitted only one name—
Ji Zhaonan.
He held no office or title, and because he rarely appeared in the country, he was hardly famous.
He had only one identity: the God of War's second disciple.
The Great Qi God of War, Jiang Mengxiong, had three disciples remaining.
His eldest