"…I know my own standing is weak. If I hand these ledgers directly to the Sect, I fear I'll be silenced. Yet the year-end audit is imminent. I won't be able to defend myself—it will be a dead end! I am a disciple of the Cyan Wood Institute, under you, Master Li. I implore you to save me!"
Chen Qing cupped his fists, his words utterly sincere.
Li Baichuan listened in silence, the fingers holding a game piece perfectly still. His face betrayed no emotion.
Only when Chen Qing had finished did he slowly set down the game piece. He raised his eyes to meet Chen Qing's. "Wang Hai… Zhao Kang… Did you kill them?"
"I did what I had to do to protect myself."
Chen Qing admitted it without hesitation.
Li Baichuan stared at Chen Qing for several moments. He then lifted his teacup, took a gentle sip, and set the ledgers on the low table. He said nonchalantly,
"I understand. You may go. I will handle this."
