His attendant was quite polite when he knocked, giving the door three measured raps. He clearly had experience; the sound alone conveyed that he meant no harm.
The attendant's attire was understated yet luxurious. He looked like a middle-aged man in seemingly plain clothes, with a capable, composed bearing. His name was Lei Ying, and he was Gong Shaoci's trusted steward.
There seemed to be figures lurking furtively outside the corridor. Gong Shaoci glanced to either side and noticed them too.
Lei Ying considerately informed him in a low voice, "Nothing to worry about. Young Master Nan stationed them around here, along with people from the Bright Mountain Sect taking turns standing guard."
Clearly, he had already investigated everything while making arrangements ahead of their visit.
Gong Shaoci smiled faintly. "Young Master Nan certainly takes good care of him."
But he could understand it. According to the news from the betting pool, the man inside had truly made Young Master Nan a fortune. He was worth protecting.
Meanwhile, Feng Chi and Wu Jinliang both opened their doors and poked their heads out to observe the commotion.
The door opened a crack. Shi Chun warily inspected the people outside, a magical treasure held ready in his hand. None of his current acquaintances could knock with such finesse. He had recognized from the sound that it wasn't one of his own people.
Outside, Gong Shaoci smiled and waved a greeting at him. "Brother Chun."
"Oh my!" Shi Chun exclaimed oddly, hurriedly putting away his magical treasure and opening the door. He was all enthusiasm, nodding and bowing. "Young Master Gong, what wind blew you here?"
They had met when he treated Mulan to a meal. After that meal, Young Master Nan had also taken the opportunity of a meeting to mention Gong