Situ Yue immediately began making arrangements for the affairs of the King's City.
She summoned Han Gongfu and Ji Lie to the front hall, and the two hurried over one after the other.
Han Gongfu was the grand elder of the Furious Sea Army and had followed Situ Cang for many years. He had the greatest seniority and commanded the highest respect.
Ji Lie was the deputy city lord, efficient and capable. He had helped Situ Yue handle government affairs over the years without ever making a mistake.
Situ Yue sat in the seat of honor and spoke clearly. "Gentlemen, I must secretly leave the King's City for a while. It may be a few days, or as long as half a month."
"While I am away, Grand Elder Han and City Lord Ji will jointly manage the affairs of the King's City."
Han Gongfu and Ji Lie exchanged a glance, each seeing the worry in the other's eyes.
Han Gongfu stepped forward and cupped his hands. "Your Highness, where are you going? Should you take more people with you?"
"There is no need." Situ Yue shook her head.
"Elder Ge will take me there. I leave the affairs of the King's City in your hands."
She took the Jade Tiger Tally that Lin Qing had left her from her sleeve.
"This is the token His Highness left behind. Seeing this tiger tally is the same as seeing His Highness himself."
Situ Yue swept her gaze across Han Gongfu and Ji Lie's faces.
"City Lord Ji, you will oversee military and government affairs. Day-to-day decisions will be yours to make."
"Elder Han, you will be responsible for city defense and commerce, and assist City Lord Ji Lie. Discuss major matters together before deciding. If you disagree, defer to the city's