"What if I refuse?"
Wei Nisheng's expression did not change, as though he had anticipated the question.
"It would be perfectly understandable if you refused, Grand Secretary.
But Chancellor Shen has also sent a note concerning the vacancy for Prefectural Judge of Kaifeng.
As an official of the Selection Bureau, I must hold the bowl level for all concerned.
If you feel the time is not yet ripe, we can discuss Zhou Quan's promotion another day. There would be no harm in that."
A needle hidden in cotton; softness carried to its utmost became strength.
Refuse, and the post would be taken from his kin and given to his enemy. Agree, and they would share a boat and weather the crossing together.
It was no threat, yet it surpassed a threat.
Song Yue's fists tightened, then loosened.
The currents of the Court could not be steered by one man alone, nor could a bargain be concluded between just two parties.
Countless arms were intertwined; tug one hair, and the entire body moved.
You are not "bargaining" with me alone, nor can I "bargain" with you alone.
Silence lingered in the study for a long while.
Song Yue gazed at Wei Zi's youthful face, as though seeing Feng Yan in his younger days again-yet this young man's bearing surpassed even his.
Indigo came from the blue plant, yet was bluer than the plant itself.
His presence inherited his master's, yet surpassed it.
Song Yue rose and walked to the map. Looking sideways at Wei Nisheng, he pressed his lips together, drew a deep breath, and said,
"Zhou Quan... may be blunt by nature, but he is a fine hand at warfare."
"If a frontier report truly comes from Ningxia Garrison, and the Court has no choice but to discuss promotions,