'This world is a wonderful place. It would be magnificent if this scene of bustling prosperity could reach every corner of the Great Zhou Country.'
The man thought to himself, 'Unfortunately, Your Majesty is plagued by a persistent illness, and the various Dukes are growing restless. I wonder how long this golden age can truly last.'
A wine flask sat nearby. The middle-aged man picked it up and took a long drink.
Then, bathed in the moonlight, he returned to the nine-story tower.
He was the only one on this floor. Though spacious, it felt somewhat empty and desolate.
The middle-aged man walked to the largest table, his eyes on a folded report resting upon it. After another swallow of wine, he sat down and unfolded the report before him.
A line of text was written on it.
The middle-aged man read it carefully, savoring the words.
