Word spread like wildfire that an expert at vanquishing demons lived in Willow Tree Alley.
Whether a demon was great or small, there was none he could not handle.
Most importantly, his fees were negotiable. Those without money could give him a few eggs, homemade pickles, or wine.
Those with money could give a little more, but he never insisted.
Whatever they gave was enough.
For a time, people from South City and North Street all came to the expert to resolve their troubles.
The man, ox, and cat were thoroughly busy for a stretch.
Even Old Ox, the laziest of them all, had no choice but to get moving.
Before they knew it, the year's end was approaching.
Li Ping'an finally had some rare leisure and bought some New Year supplies on the street.
He was on his way home.
A carriage stopped beside him, and a middle-aged man stepped out.
"Are you Mr. Li, the demon-slaying expert?"
"I am."
Li Ping'an knew at a glance that this was another person seeking his help with a demon.
"I am the steward of County Magistrate Zhang's household. I have been sent to invite you over, sir."
"Oh, the county magistrate."
Li Ping'an's expression did not change.
"Wait until I've taken these things home."
"...Of course... of course..."
Though anxious, the steward dared not overstep.
Ordinarily, anyone invited by his master would certainly not have taken such an attitude.
But the man they were inviting this time was no ordinary person.
He could only wait while Li Ping'an returned home and put everything away, one item at a time.
Only then did Li Ping'an board the carriage and accompany the steward to the county magistrate's residence.
Along the way, the steward explained the situation to Li Ping'an in detail.
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