Li Xian's Promotion to Lang General, Tao Xiangrong Seeks Her Man at the Marquis Wu Station

After the truth about Lei Chong's death was revealed, Marquis Wu Station returned to its former state. When Li Xian was released from prison, the Cavalier and Gold Steward welcomed him back with a feast. They showed no grief over Lei Chong's sudden death; instead, their hearts turned to Li Xian Li Xian, and they implicitly regarded him as their leader, all anticipating that Li Xian was the Lang General.

After Xu Shaoqian learned the details of the case, he discovered that Lei Chong had hired someone to kill him in revenge. He couldn't help but curse and was extremely angry. However, since the man was already dead, there was no way to pursue the matter, and it quickly passed.

With Lei Chong's death, the position of Lang General became vacant, and a suitable candidate needed to be found to fill it. Xu Shaoqian was hesitant. He knew that among the Gold-Seeking Guard, Li Xian's reputation and prestige were unparalleled. However, Xu Shaoqian always felt a sense of distance and harbored resentment, disliking Li Xian's temperament.

He thought to himself, "That Lei Chong is incredibly ungrateful. I only punished him in public; why would he fight me to the death? If I hadn't promoted Lang General, he wouldn't be where he is today. Thinking about it carefully, it's quite strange that Lei Chong hire someone to kill me. But no one forced him to give up his entire fortune, and no one forced him to hire someone on the Black Market. If he didn't want to kill me, why would he give up his entire fortune and gamble everything?"

Xu Shaoqian felt a pang of sorrow, recalling past events. Even if Lei Chong hadn't achieved anything significant, he had still worked hard for him over the years, helping him with many small tasks. He sighed, "Lei Chong, Lei Chong, why did you do this? I'm unharmed, but you've lost everything. Now that you're dead, I don't know who to replace you. Logically... Li Xian should be the first choice. In terms of solving cases, military merit, and ability, he far surpasses Lei Chong. What Lei Chong can do, he should be able to do even better. And what Lei Chong can't do, he can do too."

"However, this young man is not easy to control, and he will certainly not be as easy to manage as Lei Chong. Moreover, he is already Gold Steward (a military officer), and his prestige is already quite high. If Lang General another military officer), all the Cavalier and Gold Steward will look to him. I'm afraid my rank of Central Lang General another military officer) will be unable to suppress him."

He couldn't help but feel quite apprehensive. Then he thought, "While I have no power to promote someone to the rank of Lang General, I can recommend them. Heavenly Pivot will likely listen to my opinions. This position of Lang General is not suitable for Li Xian. I will look for someone else."

Xu Shaoqian immediately took out the list of all the Gold Steward, thinking, "If I don't give this position of Lang General directly to Li Xian, others will inevitably say that I am deliberately suppressing him. As far as I know, all the Gold Steward are coveting this position. I will introduce each of them to a capable candidate and shift the conflict among the Gold Steward."

At noon that day, he summoned Bai Qinghao to his residence, subtly indicating his intention to recommend him for the position of Lang General (a military Gold Steward), saying, "Qinghao, you come from a noble family and are also a member of the Bai Clan. You have served as a Jinzhang (a military officer) for a long time. Now that the position of Lang General is vacant, it is both reasonable and appropriate for you to be promoted further. What are your thoughts?" Bai Qinghao replied loudly, "Xu Central Lang General, the Lang General commands all Gold Steward and the Cavalier. We, the Gold-Seeking Guard, are not a princely army. This position of Lang General is of paramount importance and should have nothing to do with birth or family background. Although I, Bai, have longed for it, I know I am not capable of taking it."

Xu Shaoqian looked displeased and said, "Take office first, then learn slowly. I was in the same situation once. If there are no other problems, I will recommend you."

Bai Qinghao said, "I'm afraid I'm not qualified for the position of Central Lang General! I hope you will withdraw your recommendation." Xu Shaoqian thought to himself, "That's strange," and asked, "Then tell me, is there a better candidate?"

Bai Qinghao cupped his hands and said, "It is naturally the First Gold Steward Li Xian." Xu Shaoqian rubbed his forehead and asked, "Besides him, is there anyone else?"

Bai Qinghao said, "That's all."

Xu Shaoqian waved his hand impatiently and said, "Alright, go ahead." He continued to peruse the records of Gold Steward, feeling extremely frustrated. He then called over Gold Steward Deng Fan and said, "Deng Fan, you were already Gold Steward before I became Central Lang General. In terms of seniority, you are quite experienced. In terms of military achievements and strength, you are also quite good. Do you have any thoughts about this Lang General position?"

Deng Fan smiled wryly and said, "Xu Central Lang General, our Gold-Seeking Guard is the True Guard of Jade City's safety. The position of Lang General is of great importance; how can it be hastily determined based on seniority? It should be determined by military merit, ability, and prestige."

Xu Shaoqian frowned and said, "You mean you're unwilling to serve as Lang General)?" Deng Fan replied, "It's not that I'm unwilling, but that I'm incompetent." Xu Shaoqian said impatiently, "Then who do you think among the Gold Steward (military officers) and Cavalier) is qualified for this position?" Deng Fan said, "Of course, it's Li Xian." Xu Shaoqian his fist on the table and stood up, cursing, "Damn it, it's Li Xian again!" He quickly composed himself and ushered Deng Fan away. He then summoned Su Kuo to the residence. Xu Shaoqian said with a grim expression, "You will take the position of Lang General!"

Su Kuo was taken aback and quickly said, "No, no, no. Is Xu Central Lang General here to play a joke on me?" Xu Shaoqian said in a deep voice, "Why can't you accept it? Give me an explanation."

Su Kuo said, "Naturally, someone else would be more suitable." Xu Shaoqian said, "Li Xian again?" Su Kuo nodded.

Xu Shaoqian felt very frustrated and asked, "I find it very strange. In previous years, after Lei Chong died, you would all be vying to take the position of Lang General. You would be eager to recommend yourselves. Why are you all acting strangely now? You all feel that the position of Lang General is like a hot potato, and you have to give it to that Li Xian?"

Su Kuo said helplessly, "When Lei Chong Lang General a general, he certainly had extraordinary skills. But in terms of prestige, ability, and character, he was just so-so. If he could sit in that position, why couldn't we? That's why we coveted it. But Li Xian's abilities are obvious to all. He has the temperament, courage, and methods, and he has the talent, reputation, and strength. After Lei Chong's violent death, he has clearly become Lang General."

"At this moment, we suddenly found ourselves promoted to Lang General), which brought us more worry than joy. Firstly, although we held the title of Lang General, how could we command the imperial Cavalier and Jinzhang (Gold Steward)? We feared our brothers would listen to Li Xian) rather than me, and would feel I was manipulating power and usurping authority. This would create a rift, leaving us in an extremely awkward position. Secondly, Li Xian's prestige likely exceeded our expectations as Central Lang General. Among the Gold Steward, Bai Qinghao, Deng Fan, Iron Fu, Luo Rufeng, Song Liujiang... there were nineteen Gold Steward in Tailstreet Marquis Wu Station, and more than half, nearly ten of them, were on good terms with him, greatly Qi Ingestion him. Even I was among them. If he were to become Lang General, they would accept it wholeheartedly." "No need to say more. As for the Cavalier, there's no need to say more either. Those from ordinary families take him as a role model, while those from distinguished families see him as their goal. He has carried out several missions to capture criminals, drawing on the Cavalier for assistance. He always returned unharmed. Yet, his speed in solving cases and his accuracy in judging them are truly admirable." "I ask you, besides him, who else would be appointed as the Lang General? Wouldn't that be asking for trouble? But why is Xu Central Lang General the only one unwilling to give Lang General position to Li Xian?" Xu Shaoqian looked embarrassed and said, "It's not that I'm unwilling, I'm just considering it." After inviting Su Kuo away, he sighed deeply, knowing that even if he were to choose another candidate, he would find it difficult to avoid the issue of "Li Xian." The will of the people is not something Xu Shaoqian can easily go against.

Xu Shaoqian suddenly realized. "No wonder Lei Chong targeted Li Xian many times before his death. His position as Lang General was becoming increasingly awkward, so it was natural for him to feel uncomfortable. But at present, he is the only one suitable." After hesitating for a few days, he finally wrote a letter to report and recommended Li Xian.

By the second day of the eleventh month, the weather had turned cold, and the first snow had fallen. Heavenly Pivot issued an appointment Lang General, granting Li Xian the authority to be promoted to Lang Jiang, in charge of troop Tailstreet Marquis Wu Station of the street; to intervene in the prisons of Westgate County, West Luo County, West Zheng County, and West Fan County; to negotiate with Evil-Quelling Island; to intervene in the Westwind Gate; to manage the Gold Steward; and to oversee a private prison. The Mud Body in the Mud Body Temple was placed high up, enjoying the fragrance of incense. Once the mud smell had faded, it could be infused with Bronze-Clad Rank and promoted to Bronze Body.

For now, it's just Clay-Bodied Clay-Faced Rank.

The Lang General (a military officer) is not required to complete any "Gold Steward Duties" or hand over any "Crimson Coin," but must be on duty at least four days a month, overseeing all matters related to the Tailstreet Marquis Wu Station the street, organizing large-scale drills, Proficiency the essentials of the Drumbeat God-Slaying Formation, coordinating the Gold Steward Chief's actions, and overseeing the safety of Jade City. For each "First-Tier Duty" completed by the Gold Steward, the Lang General will receive one "Military Merit Point," and for each "Second-Tier Duty" completed, the Langjiang will receive two "Military Merit Points."

In addition, one would receive fifty military merits for each day of duty. Organizing drills for the Marquis Wu Station Cavalier and Gold Steward, and participating in military competitions to achieve rankings, would earn the Lang General (a military officer) a great deal of military merit. After being promoted to Lang General, the way to obtain "military merits" changed, and there was no longer a need to personally catch thieves and find criminals.

However, if a major case threatens Jade City, the Lang General must take the lead and shoulder heavy responsibilities. With greater power comes greater responsibility.

The rank of Lang General Lang General was important, and traditionally, Promotion Assembly was held for the transition between old and new generals. A banquet was usually set up at Marquis Wu Station, where all the generals would enjoy themselves. However, Lei Chong's death was sudden and unexpected. Li Xian had hastily assumed office, and the Lang General token and armor were not yet completed. Holding Promotion Assembly at this time would be rather meager. Therefore, the appointment letter was issued first, but the ceremony was postponed for several days until all preparations were complete before the grand promotion ceremony was held.

He officially became Lang General).

Upon receiving the news, the imperial Cavalier and Gold Steward offered their congratulations, as expected. Li Xian remained humble and composed, addressing the generals as brothers, and the atmosphere was very harmonious and friendly.

On the day the appointment was issued, Li Xian Xu Shaoqian, Li Xian Lang General Lang General Lang General and youthful Intent-Qi, Binds the Wind back to his Jujube-Pasture Residence. He found large and small boxes piled up on both sides of his house. Opening the boxes, he found countless gold, silver, jewels, silks, and jade—a considerable amount of wealth. The news of Li Xian's promotion to Langjiang had already spread far and wide. Merchants from the surrounding counties, cities, and districts along Westwind Avenue sent gifts to test the waters.

But there was no signature in the box. Li Xian thought to himself, "Those merchants must be secretly observing my reaction. If I accept it all, it will show that I am very greedy. They will definitely send me more generous gifts in the future, and I will inevitably be entangled in complicated relationships, which will make me very unhappy. If I refuse it all, it will seem too aloof and difficult to get along with. As a Lang General, I will need to manage a larger business in the future, so I need to prepare early."

Li Xian, with his keen observation skills, personally opened the boxes and took one relatively ordinary item from each. He then located the spies hidden nearby and ordered them to return the boxes to their original locations. This indicated that he had accepted their offer, and that taking only one item showed he was neither aloof nor cold-hearted, but also hinted at potential future cooperation. Sending the boxes back further demonstrated that he was neither greedy nor easily swayed, and that he dared not easily accept items of unknown origin. His subsequent discovery of the hidden spies showcased his abilities and subtly intimidated those observing him.

Li Xian closed the door, and the courtyard returned to peace. Li Xian regulated his breathing, calmed his mind, and smoothed away all feelings of pride, joy, and relief, becoming composed, natural, indifferent, and fearless.

He thought to himself, "From humble beginnings as a debtor, I've braved countless dangers and, through Heaven Rewards Diligence, I've finally attained the rank of Lang General. It's certainly progress, certainly inseparable from effort, and certainly a cause for celebration. But the higher I climb, the deeper the Commandery Princess's control grows. The Jade City is rife with undercurrents, a place teeming with hidden talents; a single misstep could lead to my downfall. Though I've become Lang General and wield considerable power, the Commandery Princess's threat is far from gone, and my strength still needs improvement. I cannot afford to be complacent. I must plan carefully before acting. But I shouldn't favor one over the other. Lang General wields real power; with this power, I can pursue what I desire and achieve what I want!"

He practiced martial arts, stroked the Golden Cicada, and played the jade flute. As before, Turbidity Transport, the heavens and earth were reversed, and the Bone Turbidity was mutually transported. He further honed his Sole-Self Heart Technique and used the Pivot-Splitting Shadow-Transforming Style martial arts.

Accumulate proficiency.

That night, another joyous event arrived: the "Heavenly Pivot Saber Method," the "Stone-Pushing Palm Method," and the "Suffering Body Scripture" all reached the "Peak Mastery." The nine pieces of the Demonic Sound Soul-Shaking Melody were all practiced diligently, and their proficiency improved steadily.

Li Xian's first level of the Divine Mist Intent-Transformation Technique is gradually reaching the "Major Accomplishment" stage. His "Pivot-Shadow Transformation School" is becoming more powerful overall. The Pivot Shadow is more solid, and his swordsmanship is more unpredictable.

With the accumulation of martial arts practice every day, the Heaven and Earth Essence in his body was digested. The proficiency of the Second Martial Realm, "Bone-Sculpting Embryo", was reached [43]. Midnight.

After washing and cleaning himself, Li Xian changed into a loose robe and lay down on the grass at Jujube-Pasture Residence. Golden Cicada landed on his fingertip, and he fluttered its wings and played with it. Li Xian was unusually peaceful, gazing at the bright moon and enjoying the gentle breeze.

It was already winter, and light snowflakes drifted across the sky, dotting the starry expanse. Li Xian cleared his mind, not thinking of love, hatred, fame, fortune, or martial arts cultivation. He was like a frog in a well, gazing at the sky.

What you see is what it is; why worry about it?

Li Xian brought out Sweet Jujube Wine, sipped the fine wine, and added to his leisurely enjoyment. He hummed a drinking game to himself, his carefree spirit indescribable. He fell asleep around 1-3 AM. He awoke at Chen Hour the next day, and there was a faint commotion outside the Jujube-Pasture Residence, as if some guests were visiting. However, the guests dared not make a sound, lest they disturb Li Xian, so there was no knocking. After washing and dressing, Li Xian went to greet the guests.

The news of the appointment of Lang General had spread far and wide, and Li Xian anticipated that his door would be thronged with visitors within three days. He pushed open the door, and the first to come to pay his respects were four middle-aged men. They were all dressed in the official robes of Jade City, and Li Xian had already met one of them before.

Qin Zhixu of West Fan County, Zheng Dacang, the magistrate of West Luo County West Zheng County, Bi Kuan, the magistrate of Xiluo County, were too busy with official duties to leave their respective counties, so they sent people to visit and congratulate Li Xian on his promotion to Lang General. Each of Westgate County, West Fan County, West Zheng County, and West Luo County governs four wards. Li Xian holds the power of handling criminal cases in the four counties, which is a very important position.

Gold Ingot Ward is located within the jurisdiction of Westgate County. Tian Sanfang, the county magistrate of Westgate County, personally visited Li Xian, speaking warmly and showing great kindness. Li Xian had once accompanied Yao Baishun to practice medicine in the county government. At that time, Tian Sanfang had indulged the county lieutenant Kong Li in his violent acts, showing no kindness whatsoever and possessing a very high standard. His extreme hospitality here was truly surprising and novel. Now, Li Xian had been promoted to Langjiang (a military officer position Lang General), and Kong Li, the county lieutenant of Westgate County, was in charge of the criminal affairs of Gold Ingot Ward, Benevolence Ward, Zhoushan Ward, and Tongji Ward. Logically, he had the closest relationship with Li Xian and the most frequent interactions in terms of power. He should have accompanied Tian Sanfang to the county government.

However, upon hearing that the new Lang General was Li Xian, Kong Li felt as if the sky had fallen and the earth had collapsed, as if struck by lightning. He couldn't believe that a former Hall Physician had risen so rapidly in rank. After repeatedly confirming that Wu Cuo, he felt utterly hopeless and anxious, fearing that Li Xian would use his position to seek revenge and frame him. Although his Kong Family was not a small or insignificant family and had considerable ability and strength, being hostile to the Truth-Appraising Guard Lang General still a difficult situation to deal with. He decided to run away and took sick leave overnight to hide in the east of the city for a few days.

Li Xian talked with the four for a long time, thinking to himself, "My lady once taught me that this world is inherently neither black nor white, neither virtuous nor wicked, neither right Wu Cuo. The so-called black and white, virtue and wickedness, right and wrong, all reside only in each person's heart. My lady said that I am young and impetuous, seemingly mature beyond my years, but actually still somewhat innocent. She particularly likes me and tells me not to change. However, she instructed me that in the future, when dealing with others, I should only follow my nature and uphold my own bottom line. There is no need to demand that others be perfectly pure and innocent. People like this Tian Sanfang, he is the magistrate of Westgate County, he indulges Kong Li, and his governance ability is mediocre. In private, he probably has no shortage of acts of disregarding life, harming the people, and exploiting their wealth. As for his character, I do not wish to associate with him, nor can he be my friend. But now that he has come to visit, he has not done anything ugly in front of me. So I will maintain courtesy and have a normal conversation." Regardless of whether the visitor is good or bad, one should maintain courtesy.

The five men talked until noon, discussing refined poetry, appreciating paintings, and raising birds. During this time, Tian Sanfang and the others took the opportunity to flatter Li Xian, praising his handsome appearance, extraordinary bearing, and high position at such a young age, and inquiring about his hobbies. Li Xian responded calmly, neither arrogant nor servile, displaying a natural composure. After this interaction, Tian Sanfang and the others secretly commented that this young man was impeccable and truly extraordinary. Finally, Li Xian personally saw Tian Sanfang and the others off. After a rare half-hour rest, the head of Gold Ingot Ward arrived with gifts. Although Li Xian found it uninteresting, he remained polite and invited them in for a chat. They drank some tea and ate some sweet dates before he saw them out.

After the magistrate left for a short while, officials from Clear Peace Tower and the head of the Artifact Cauldron Pavilion arrived one after another. The gate was bustling with activity. Thus, the first day of rest passed. On the second day, most of the visitors were merchants from the surrounding area, who thronged the door. Although Li Xian had expected this, he still felt overwhelmed. He declined as many congratulatory gifts as possible.

Some even brought beautiful women to propose marriage. Li Xian, with his "Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face," was extremely capable of solving cases and catching criminals. He had handled several major cases and his reputation had long been widespread. Now he was Lang General, with a high position and great power. Although he was rumored to be "exceptionally ugly," he had a handsome figure. Many beautiful women were willing to love only his handsome hair and ignore his ugly face, asking matchmakers to propose marriage.

There were also women from prominent families such as the Bai, Su, and Yao clans. Li Xian was the youngest, but she was not easily persuaded to leave. It took a lot of ambiguity and persuasion to barely avoid being involved in a marriage proposal. On the third day, the number of visitors increased, but more common people came to visit. Li Xian often took on important "first-level" and "second-level" assignments, which concerned the people's livelihood and upheld justice. Therefore, she had an extremely high reputation among the people.

The people brought fruits, vegetables, eggs, and all sorts of things. Li Xian found it hard to refuse, so he accepted them all and ordered them to be transported to Marquis Wu Station for the banquet at the promotion ceremony the next day. Around noon, Yao Fan, Bai Qinghao, Li Kuo, Chang Ziqiang, and others arrived one after another. They were quite impolite and took several jars of good wine from Li Xian. Li Xian laughed and scolded them, but had no choice but to let them have their way.

In the evening, Song Ya and her father, the Song the Merchant, came to offer their congratulations.

Song Ya, a lively young girl, greeted them with a bow and clasped hands. Li Xian invited the father and daughter inside for tea, and they chatted for a while before he saw them off as darkness fell. Seeing that things had finally calmed down, Li Xian thought to himself, "Next time I get promoted, I'll need to find a quiet place to hide."

The three-day rest period ended. The Lang General's token and personal armor were forged. The token was turquoise in shape. The Lang General's armor was called "Gold-Embroidered Armor," which was entirely black with gold embroidery, making it very imposing and handsome.

Li Xian, clad in his precious armor, gazed at himself in the mirror. It is said that clothes make the man, and a saddle makes the horse. Even in his Tiger-Python Uniform robes, Li Xian was already handsome and dashing, earning him the nickname "Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face." His "Gold-Embroidered Armor" was even more exquisite, further enhancing his figure and accentuating his bearing. At first glance, Li Xian, dressed in these attire, appeared as a spirited and dashing young general.

Upon closer inspection, the young general possessed a unique aura, as if he were about to Riding the Wind and fly away.

Now, on this day...

Li Xian, wielding a precious sword, holding a jade token, wearing jeweled armor and a jade crown, rode a steed that Wind-Binding Horse. As he went out to greet the crowd, he was truly a sight to behold. He was tall and handsome, and his imposing presence was effortless, requiring no brute force to project an aura of dominance; it was emanating naturally from his every move. His unique temperament and ethereal bearing made him seem like Mystic Immortal.

Turbidity-Avoidance the essence of Pure Yang Body.

As he walked through the streets and alleys, everyone turned to look. Passing by restaurants, the people outside would crowd around to watch. Walking along the main road, carriages and horses stopped in their tracks. Everyone exclaimed, "What a fine young man! What a fine young man! Who in the streets today can compare to this young man?"

They couldn't help but follow.

Xu Shaoqian waited at Marquis Wu Station, watching Li Xian ride in on horseback. He was also stunned and captivated, thinking to himself, "Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face, Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face... but this handsome hair is too otherworldly. If I wore a mask, could I have such a look and such demeanor?"

The imperial Cavalier and Gold Steward were even more honored to see Li Xian's magnificent appearance. Seeing the people spontaneously following him, the gathering was extremely lively. Chang Ziqiang, Li Kuo, and others kept coming out of the street to greet him. The Gold Steward couldn't contain themselves and also rode out of their shops to welcome him. They all considered it an honor to be by Li Xian's side.

Some wandering travelers, filled with curiosity, inquired about the identity of Li Xian. A drunken scholar, suddenly inspired, composed several poems on the spot. A child, brimming with passion, vowed to learn martial arts and achieve merit. An elderly man reminisced about his youthful days. A young woman secretly harbored feelings for him and couldn't stop admiring him.

But heroes gathered to watch, and heaven and earth witnessed this young man. Xu Shaoqian couldn't help but feel jealous. When he was a Central Lang General, he also organized Promotion Assembly. Although it was extremely lively then, it was not as grand as today.

Li Xian was surprised to cause such a stir, but being always carefree and easygoing, he gladly accepted. Arriving at Marquis Wu Station, Li Xian cupped his hands and called out, "Xu Central Lang General!" Xu Shaoqian looked him up and down, secretly puffing out his chest, and nodded, saying, "Not bad, not bad, you haven't disgraced the Gold-Seeking Guard. The Promotion Assembly is ready; you may go in quickly."

Li Xian said, "I will follow your orders, Central Lang General." He then went inside. After taking only a few steps, he suddenly heard a commotion outside the street. Xu Shaoqian frowned and sent Li Kuo to investigate. Before long, Li Kuo returned and reported, "Xu Central Lang General, it's Tao Xiangrong, the Tao Xiangrong of Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower, who has arrived."

Xu Central Lang General delighted and asked, "Xiangrong? What's she doing here all of a sudden?"

Li Kuo replied, "She said she wanted to speak with Xu Central Lang General in person." Xu Shaoqian was overjoyed. After waiting for a moment, a carriage approached. Tao Xiangrong, dressed in finery, alighted from the carriage and gracefully bowed to Xu Shaoqian.

Xu Shaoqian's heart burned with excitement. "Xiangrong, why... why are you here?" Tao Xiangrong and said, "I've come to see my younger brother." The words "younger brother" were filled with tender joy, and she caught a glimpse of Li Xian's figure out of the corner of her eye.

Xu Shaoqian asked in confusion, "Younger brother? Xiangrong... do you have a younger brother...?" Tao Xiangrong, adept at manipulating men's minds, feigned anger and said, "You're so naive!"

Xu Shaoqian immediately misunderstood. "Could it be that Xiangrong just called me 'brother'? If so, wouldn't I have just embarrassed the beauty?"