Su Ziji watched the Wild Daoist leave, feeling a little wistful.
Love and affection were not unimportant. His dealings with Princess Xinping were not merely a matter of using her, much less something he regretted.
In terms of benefits alone, Xinping was willful and spoiled. Though Prince Shu and Prince Qi were her brothers, they had different mothers and little affection for her. If either prince ascended the throne, Xinping's future would not be so comfortable.
He, however, could give her several times as much.
So he owed her nothing in terms of benefits. What troubled him was her affection. How should he respond to that?
Just then, someone reported from outside the door, "Your Highness, Bianxuan has arrived."
Bianxuan was here?
Su Ziji gathered his thoughts and said, "Have them wait in the reception hall."
"Yes." The footsteps outside receded.
Su Ziji rose, straightened his appearance a little, and headed out. The study was not far from the reception hall. Since he had purged his household, those allowed to work in the residence, especially in the main courtyard, were all reasonably loyal.
Even so, Su Ziji received the ten men Bianxuan had brought in the reception hall. With a single glance, he nodded inwardly.
They were all experts.
These ten monks lived up to their careful training. They looked quite ordinary, but every one of them possessed martial skills. Though none reached Cen Rubai's level, each would count as a first-rate expert in the martial world.
Such men kept a low profile and seldom aroused suspicion, yet could play a considerable role at critical moments.
"This humble monk pays his respects to the Imperial Grandson."
Su Ziji was quite satisfied. After Bianxuan led the ten men in paying their respects, he raised a hand slightly. "Rise, all of you.