The day after Chen Caozhi arrived in Gushu, he visited the staff of the Western Headquarters and the generals in the Inner City in succession. At the Inner City barracks, he happened to meet General Who Champions the Army Murong Chui and his son, Middle General Who Directs the Army Murong Ling. After exchanging greetings about their time apart, Chen Caozhi said, "I called on the Marquis of Xinxing in Jiankang the other day and asked after you both. Only then did I learn that you were in Gushu. To my mind, military life is arduous and the winds and clouds unpredictable. Why not remain in Jiankang and enjoy a peaceful life?"
Murong Chui and Murong Ling exchanged a glance, inwardly alarmed, and dared not answer. Murong Chui changed the subject, asking about Murong Qinchen's recent circumstances and the scenery and customs of Ji Province. After some idle conversation, they cupped their hands in farewell.
Murong Chui watched Chen Caozhi, Ran Sheng, and their party of several dozen leave the Inner City barracks for Gushu. His brows knitted tightly, and he remained silent for a long time-
"Father," Murong Ling said, "Chen Caozhi seemed to be hinting at something-"
Murong Chui said, "Go to Heir Apparent Huan this evening and inquire whether something has changed regarding my appointment as Sima of Yu Province."
"Yes," Murong Ling replied.
When Murong Wei, Kezuhun Yi, and the others had arrived in Jiankang at the end of the year before last, Murong Chui's anger at these incompetent rulers and mediocre ministers of Former Yan had shown openly on his face. He particularly hated Murong Wei's mother, Lady Kezuhun. Had she not joined forces with certain princes and ministers to plot his murder, forcing him and his son to flee, how could the Yan Kingdom