In the west of the city stood a rather lavish residence.
The Lu Residence.
Li Ping'an and Old Ox had just followed Lu Renjia into the residence when they heard a hearty laugh.
Inside the main hall, a burly middle-aged man with a short beard sat in the seat of honor.
Dressed in fine clothes, he looked radiant and thoroughly pleased with himself.
Beside him, an elderly man in his sixties wore a flattering smile.
He was the head of the Lu family.
He saw Lu Renjia enter the hall with a man in blue robes following behind him.
Lu Renjia's father said, "Renjia, this must be the senior brother Li you mentioned."
Lu Renjia introduced him. "Father, General Ai, this is my senior brother, Li Ping'an."
Li Ping'an cupped his hands slightly. "My respects, Uncle, General Ai."
General Ai raised his eyes from the seat of honor and looked Li Ping'an over.
There was a hint of contempt in his gaze.
He did indeed have the standing to act arrogantly, being a general of Great Sui.
Now that he had accompanied the army in taking the enemy nation's Capital City, he naturally looked down from on high upon these enemy captives.
"An alchemist? What grade?"
The question left Li Ping'an slightly taken aback.
He really did not know what grade he was.
Before Li Ping'an could answer, General Ai spoke again.
"Since you're an alchemist, refine a batch of pills for me. I will naturally ensure your safety."
Li Ping'an had expected this and agreed with a smile.
If that was all it took to keep his sect safe, it would be worth it.
General Ai set down his wine cup. "You'll stay here and refine pills for the time being."
Li Ping'an said, "General, if I stay here,