The adviser bowed. "In this old man's opinion, we could choose the Star-Picking Tower."
"What do you think, Marquis?" Prince Lan Ning asked.
Lin Xiaosu looked toward the tallest tower in Lan Ning City. "The lofty tower rises a hundred fathoms high; with my hand, I could pluck the stars. I dare not speak aloud, for fear of startling those in heaven. Wonderful!"
Prince Lan Ning clapped his hands and laughed. "A poem off the cuff, Marquis-what exquisite talent! You have my utmost admiration! You will handle the invitation, and in three days, we shall welcome our neighbor together at the Star-Picking Tower. How does that sound?"
"Good!"
"Since you have come to my residence today, Marquis, would you care for a tour?" Prince Lan Ning asked.
"Your Highness has given me the task of inviting our guest, so my leisure is no longer my own. I shall take my leave for now. We shall meet again at the Star-Picking Tower in three days!"
Lin Xiaosu rose and bowed.
"Farewell, Marquis!" Prince Lan Ning also rose to see him off.
Lin Xiaosu and the two women left the Worthy Pavilion.
Prince Lan Ning stood at the entrance to the Worthy Pavilion, bowing as he saw them off.
An early spring breeze blew past, carrying plum blossom fragrance throughout the garden.
His hair fluttered gently.
"Your Highness! In 'I dare not speak aloud, for fear of startling those in heaven,' what does 'those in heaven' mean?" A thread of sound reached Prince Lan Ning's sea of consciousness and spirit platform directly. It was the adviser's voice.
Prince Lan Ning sent a thread of sound back. "What occurred to you?"
"Intimidation!"
"Intimidation?"
The adviser said, "He was reminding everyone that he has 'those in heaven' behind him, so all parties had best