He pondered briefly.
The matter seemed ordinary, but it involved an official of the Directorate of Ceremonial, so caution was necessary.
Still, if he could use this opportunity to forge some connections, that would not be a bad thing.
"You are too kind, Lord Zhao."
"My learning is shallow and my talents meager. I fear I may be of little help."
Li Yunjing spoke modestly.
"You are far too modest, Clerk Li."
Chief Clerk Zhao's smile widened. "Who hasn't heard of Clerk Li's piercing eye in the miscellaneous studies section of the Hall of Myriad Records?"
"Then it's settled. Might I invite you to my residence tomorrow for a chat?"
As he spoke, he discreetly passed over a Hundred Treasure Pouch.
Li Yunjing swept it with his divine sense. Inside were a full five hundred high-grade spirit stones.
The man certainly had a generous hand.
"You are being far too formal, Lord Zhao."
He smiled faintly and pushed the Hundred Treasure Pouch back. "Since a fellow cultivator has invited me to discuss matters of learning, how could I refuse?"
"We can discuss payment after I have examined the items."
A flicker of surprise crossed Chief Clerk Zhao's eyes, followed by a smile. "Clerk Li, you truly are a delightful fellow!"
"Then I shall respectfully await your arrival at my humble home tomorrow, at the hour of the snake."
Leaving a jade slip containing his address, he took his leave.
After seeing Chief Clerk Zhao off, Li Yunjing toyed with the address jade slip, lost in thought.
An official of the Directorate of Ceremonial, privately collecting strange antiquities and being so secretive about it-this did pique his interest.
At the hour of the snake the following day, Li Yunjing arrived punctually at Chief Clerk Zhao's residence.
Located in the Heavenly Court's