Zhongli Mei's eyes lit up, and for the first time, the way he looked at Li held a trace of genuine warmth.
"Young Master Fusu, if Zhongli Mei can truly join the Golden Fire Cavalry this time and fulfill his ambitions, then to Zhongli Mei, your favor in recognizing my worth will be greater than heaven itself. Zhongli Mei will never dare forget it."
"What a fine 'never dare forget'!" Li clapped his hands and laughed. Then his expression sobered as he patted Zhongli Mei on the shoulder. "Remember what you said today, Zhongli Mei."
This was the most solemn and serious thing Li had said all day. Zhongli Mei's body trembled as he looked up at Li with determination, then nodded forcefully.
Zhongli Mei was a gentleman, so Li had great faith in his promise.
But a true gentleman could not thrive in this world.
Thus, Li turned around and looked up at the vast blue sky. "In the world as it is now, a gentleman will not have an easy life. If you wish to realize your ambitions, you must understand compromise and choice. When successful, aid the world; when unsuccessful, preserve yourself. You must understand what matters most to you."
"Thank you for your instruction, Young Master." Zhongli Mei clasped his fists with force. For the first time, he showed genuine admiration for Li's words, and a hint of respect colored his usually indifferent gaze.
"Please forgive Zhongli Mei for his earlier offense!"
Li froze at Zhongli Mei's sudden kneeling and apology.
"What are you doing?" Li reached out to help Zhongli Mei up, only to find that his body was as steady as a boulder, completely unmoving. "Get up, quickly."
"Young Master, please let Zhongli Mei finish speaking before I rise." Zhongli Mei's attitude was unexpectedly