The Inspection Office.
Atop its tallest pavilion.
Wisps of mist rose.
"Chief, have a taste!"
Ye Qiu extended a hand, inviting Hong Minghu to try the freshly brewed hot tea before him.
A moment later.
"Excellent tea!"
Hong Minghu took two sips and nodded in praise.
"Chief, should we do something about the chaos down below?" Ye Qiu asked as soon as Hong Minghu set down his cup.
"Chaos? What chaos?" Hong Minghu looked at Ye Qiu in surprise.
"Do you truly not understand, Chief?" Ye Qiu asked.
Hong Minghu said, "Why beat around the bush? Speak plainly!"
Hearing this, Ye Qiu stared into Hong Minghu's eyes and remained silent for two full breaths.
Then he gave a derisive smile.
"Fine!" Ye Qiu nodded emphatically.
Just then, both men turned toward the stairs behind them.
Thud, thud, thud-
The footsteps reached their ears with particular clarity in the utter stillness of the snowy day, growing clearer by the moment.
"Commander Jiang, what a surprise!" Hong Minghu smiled faintly at Jiang Ning as his head came into view.
"Brother Jiang!" Ye Qiu immediately rose to welcome him.
"Brother Ye!" Jiang Ning greeted him with a smile as well.
Then he cupped his hands slightly toward Hong Minghu.
"Greetings, Chief!"
"To think Commander Jiang has the leisure to visit me today!" Hong Minghu smiled and continued, "Come, take a seat with us!"
"Thank you, Chief!" Jiang Ning cupped his hands.
Then.
Jiang Ning sat down with Ye Qiu opposite Hong Minghu.
"Brother Jiang, have some tea!" Ye Qiu poured a steaming cup and placed it before Jiang Ning.
Jiang Ning took a small sip, then set down the cup in his hand.
"Judging by your expression, Commander Jiang, you have something to discuss with me?" Hong Minghu asked.
"Yes!" Jiang Ning nodded.