Fourth Master Xiao disagreed, pulling her aside and, after some thought, told her what he had said to the Emperor in the palace today: "Today in the Imperial Study Room, while discussing Fujian, Lord Hong from the Fujian Governor and Chief Lei had many disagreements in their political views, I mentioned that I had met Lord Hong a few times in the past..."
Xiqiu realized what Fourth Master Xiao was about to say and looked at him somewhat nervously. Fourth Master Xiao paused and continued, "...the Emperor then started talking about Min's studies, praising him highly."
Xiqiu's eyes lit up as she listened. Fourth Master Xiao mentioning the Fujian Governor was an indication to the Emperor: if Min was not in his favor, he might as well take the whole family to Fujian. The Emperor did not mention sending Fourth Master Xiao away but praised Min's excellent academic performance.
"Fourth Master." Xiqiu felt both worried and happy: "Is the Emperor intending to acknowledge Min?"
