"There has been a military mutiny in the Shu Region. The emperor has issued an edict ordering our Knowledge and Practice Institute to put it down."
Wei Zhilin rose, lightly stroked his long beard, and said thoughtfully, "At court the day before yesterday, the emperor originally intended to send Chancellor Cui Yizhong, but a chill had attacked Cui Yizhong's heart, leaving him barely able to stand during the audience. The Imperial Physician said he would need at least half a month to recuperate. As the ministers discussed another candidate, Grand Commandant Tong Huan recommended our Knowledge and Practice Institute, and the emperor agreed...
"A few days ago, I cast a divination and saw killing intent soaring into the heavens in the west, with faint signs of warfare emerging. I simply never expected the emperor to assign our Knowledge and Practice Institute this task. When all these events are put together and examined closely, something seems rather strange. I have yet to discern whether a conspiracy lies behind it, but a military mutiny is no small matter. It seems... I must go in person."
"Why trouble yourself with this, senior brother? Why use an ox-cleaving blade to kill a chicken? I'll go! Let me go!"
At this, Cheng Zi Ya's round eyes lit up. He rubbed his large hands excitedly, then slapped his chest with his fan-sized palms, making it boom. "Those little brats in the Shu Region's military camps think the mountains are high and the emperor is far away, and now their tails are sticking clear up into the sky! Heh heh... I haven't seen them in years. This is the perfect chance to go loosen up their bones!"
Wei Zhilin shook his head slightly, his voice gentle but brooking no argument. "Some of the officers and soldiers in