Hu Ke smiled and shook his head. "My ancestors were all common folk. There's really no need for me to cling to my original surname. Plenty of people in this world change their names and surnames—why make things so troublesome?"
"Everything will be according to your wishes. The Zhang Clan was already a great Jiangdong family, and now that I have forcibly raised it up as an example, the other noble clans can quickly give their allegiance. Using Yu Xiu's name, you can aid me in secret. If we forcefully change back to your original name, it may make those people suspicious. You've worked hard." Lan Tian explained solemnly.
"This subordinate's life was given by you, sir. Please don't say such distant words again. Before you, sir, there is only Yu Xiu. Eldest Young Master, don't get it wrong either," Hu Ke answered firmly.
"Very well." Lan Tian nodded slightly.
"It is already late. It would not be convenient for Yu Xiu to disturb you and the young master further. Please rest. I take my leave." Hu Ke rose, cupped his fist, and prepared to depart.
Lan Tian waved to Lan Yuan. "Boyang, see General Yu off."
"Yes."
Before long, Lan Yuan and Lan Ji returned to the room together, while Lan Tian was still deep in thought.
"Father, with Jiangdong's situation being so complicated, you must be greatly troubled, right?" Lan Yuan asked quietly.
Lan Ji said unconcernedly, "Is there anything in the world Father can't solve? Uncle and Aunt admire Father most of all. Elder Brother, don't go around with such a worried face."
"Zhongling, you don't know the full story." Lan Yuan shook his head with a bitter smile.
Lan Ji thumped his chest. "I think governing a region is just like leading troops into battle. You