"Hm?"
The expressions of Yu Niang, Li Yanyan, Hua Qiandai, and the others changed. Yu Niang was horrified, Li Yanyan incredulous, and Hua Qiandai frowned with worry.
Xiao He, Jian Shang, Han Xin, and the others all knitted their brows, slightly taken aback but not truly surprised.
Li Yuan was, after all, a high-ranking historical luminary whose name had endured through the ages, a prodigy skilled in both civil and military affairs who had repeatedly brought down Lord Chunshen, Huang Xie, and taken his place. He might have seemed unremarkable, but his mind was as clear as a mirror!
"If that is how you wish to put it, City Lord Li, I will not deny it. However, Yu Niang is not my pawn. She has no obligation to report any intelligence concerning Sishui Royal City to the Huan Kingdom, nor will she do anything to harm you, your people, or Sishui Royal City!"
A hundred thoughts turned through Jian Shang's mind before he looked at Li Yuan and spoke frankly. After all, Li Yuan had laid the matter bare from the outset. Though he had phrased it as a question, he was clearly certain of his ground. Denial would serve no purpose.
Besides, given Jian Shang's position and standing, denying something after being exposed would only cheapen him and damage his prestige.
Li Yuan gave a sunny smile, nodded, and replied warmly:
"Of course. On that point, you have my absolute trust. Otherwise, why would I have allowed Yu Niang to remain in Sishui Royal City all this time, and even become romantically involved with Master Xiao?"
Understanding dawned on Xiao He as he reflected on this. No wonder Li Yuan, who had always followed his advice, had remained so hesitant over the Huan Kingdom this time, even displaying a