Hu Xiaotian said, "I heard Chu Fufeng was actually killed in a plot laid by his sworn brother." He did not specify that the Old Emperor, Long Xuan'en, had done it.
The Old Beggar said, "The tree that towers above the forest is bound to be battered by the wind. Chu Fufeng's learning encompassed heaven and man. He single-handedly established the Heavenly Secrets Bureau and rendered great service in helping His Majesty ascend the throne. But everything in this world has two extremes. If you want to preserve yourself, the best course is to follow the middle way. Once your achievements overshadow your sovereign, or you possess someone else's secrets, you may unwittingly bring a fatal disaster upon yourself."
Hu Xiaotian reflected that this must have been why Chu Fufeng had been murdered all those years ago.
The Old Beggar glanced at Hu Xiaotian and said, "Serving a ruler is like keeping company with a tiger. With your martial arts and strength today, why not take your family away from the Imperial Court as soon as possible and retire among the mountains and rivers? At least you could live freely and happily."
Hu Xiaotian smiled. "Thank you for the reminder, sir. I have considered that myself. But in troubled times, even retreating among the mountains and rivers may not bring true peace. You conceal yourself in the bustling world, sir, but have you truly achieved freedom and ease, with nothing binding your heart?"
The question left the Old Beggar speechless. Only after a while did he sigh and say, "People's hearts are far more treacherous than you imagine."
"Could you offer me a little more guidance, sir?" Hu Xiaotian asked humbly.
The Old Beggar said, "The more you know, the more you suffer. In truth, clever people are often less