The group moved at great speed, cutting through streets and alleys.
Zhou Qi was wedged in the middle. His peripheral vision swept over the surroundings as the common bustle of the city's south gradually faded, replaced by a different atmosphere.
The east side of the city.
The moment he stepped into this district, Zhou Qi sensed the difference.
The number of patrolling city guards had suddenly increased. Every few dozen steps, a squad passed by.
Even more striking was the spirit of these soldiers. The gate guards in the south and west of the city stood like they had no bones, leaning against walls and yawning as a matter of course.
But these men before him all stood straight-backed and broad-waisted, their eyes blazing like torches. Their entire bodies radiated the vigor of, "We soldiers have strength."
Zhou Qi withdrew his gaze, understanding dawning in his heart.
One only had to look at these soldiers to know what sort of people lived in the east side of the city.
After traveling for roughly another quarter of an hour, an estate came into view.
Its vermilion-lacquered gates were imposing and strictly regulated. Above them hung a black plaque inscribed with three golden characters—"Central Secretariat Residence."
Four guards stood at the entrance, each with a solid, condensed aura. Seeing the old man approach, the lead guard smiled and nodded, personally pushing open the side gate.
Zhou Qi was led inside.
Beyond the entrance lay a broad courtyard paved with bluestone. Several ancient pines leaned at angles, with stone benches and tables beneath them, lending the place an elegant, leisurely air.
It was utterly unlike the rough simplicity of the Yang Residence. Everything here exuded one word: refinement.
Servants passed by in silence, light on their feet and never looking aside, noiseless as