An idea suddenly occurred to Hu Xiaotian. Yan Xuanming had enjoyed a good reputation while serving as an official in Haizhou, and Hu Xiaotian was now trying to establish himself and expand his power, recruiting talented people wherever he could. Since Yan Xuanming refused to return, why not keep him here to help? He would gain another capable assistant and strengthen his ties with Yan Tianlu at the same time. With that thought, he said sincerely, "Young Master Yan, if you wouldn't mind, why not stay here with me? Wuxing Commandery still needs someone to handle its internal affairs. You could help me manage its government. After a while, Princess Yongyang will send all your family members here, and you can be reunited. Then you can decide where you want to go. What do you think?"
Yan Xuanming pressed his lips together, clasped his hands, and bowed deeply to Hu Xiaotian. "Thank you for your generous regard, Lord Hu. I will bend my back to the task and give my all, serving you as faithfully as a hound or horse!"
When Yang Zongtong heard that Yan Xuanming intended to stay and work for Hu Xiaotian, he could hardly insist otherwise. Although he could not take Yan Xuanming away with him, at least his safety should be assured here. In fact, before Yang Zongtong had come to fetch him, the island lord himself had held little hope of success. It seemed the island lord understood this son of his quite well.
After seeing Yang Zongtong off, Hu Xiaotian took Visa to Tong Ren Tang to visit Qin Yutong and see how her recovery was progressing. Zhuge Guanqi and his wife happened to be there when they arrived. Visa stayed to chat with Hong Lingxue and Qin Yutong, while Hu Xiaotian and