"Hmm?"
"It's a call from Minister Nan."
"Oh?"
The Central Plains King took the phone, his laughter especially hearty. "Minister Nan, how did you find the leisure today to call this humble king personally?"
Over the phone, Minister Nan's voice was cold. "Central Plains King, I'm calling to inform you of something unfortunate. Take it seriously."
"Please, go ahead, Minister Nan."
"Your brother-in-law is suspected of plotting to seize Hidden Dragon High Martial."
Minister Nan got straight to the point. "The evidence is conclusive. Have him ready before this afternoon. Alive, intact-not the sort who turns into a corpse as soon as he enters the Star Shield Bureau, and not someone whose life is in another person's hands and who won't say a word. Before six this afternoon, I'll have the Star Shield Bureau collect him from the Central Plains King's Manor."
Minister Nan's voice was flat. "Any problem?"
The Central Plains King's expression changed.
He pondered, giving no answer for a long while. After another pause, he said, "Go check where Qiu Xiaoqian is now."
Without the slightest hesitation or delay, the steward shot away.
The Central Plains King said gravely, "Minister Nan, please wait a moment. I'll confirm Qiu Xiaoqian's whereabouts right now and give you an answer."
Minister Nan's voice was cold and harsh. "I don't want your answer. I only want an unharmed Qiu Xiaoqian! If he's dead, you'll be the prime suspect!"
The Central Plains King chuckled. "Minister Nan, are you thinking of arresting me too?"
Minister Nan said, "Try killing Qiu Xiaoqian before this afternoon and see whether I dare arrest you!"
With a snap, the call was disconnected.
The Central Plains King held the disconnected phone, still pressed to his ear, his expression darker than ever.
Layer upon layer of killing intent seeped