Steward Yang's expression changed drastically. He set his teacup down heavily on the table and frowned. "Valley Master Nie, you and I have known each other for many years. You must know the responsibility I bear in these two matters. If either the Hall Master or the envoy is displeased, there is no need to report it to anyone higher—either of them alone could condemn this old man to eternal damnation. I only reluctantly agreed to what you mentioned earlier because we have known each other for so long, and because this is the last time I will see you. Do not keep making things difficult for me again and again."
Upon hearing this, Valley Master Nie wore a desolate expression and said helplessly, "Young Brother Yang, it is not that this old brother wishes to make things difficult for you. Every family has its own scriptures that are hard to recite. Just hear me out."
He then explained Qiangshi's situation and asked, "Qian Xiu's nephew was the first one on the left. Does Young Brother Yang remember him?"
Steward Yang thought for a moment. "Mm, I have some impression of him. He is considered above average."
He then narrowed his eyes, pondered for a while, and asked, "Elder Brother Nie, are you confident about this?"
When Valley Master Nie heard Steward Yang call him "Elder Brother Nie" again, his heart filled with guilt. "I have known this child since he was little. I know him through and through."
Steward Yang sighed. "Elder Brother Nie, you originally did not need to tell me about this. The medicine boys selected here are never inspected by the Incense-Passing Cult; we simply trust Hui Chun Valley's reputation. Since you brought it up today, it shows that you are laying your heart bare to