Li Banfeng initially intended to record some significant points as Du Wenming spoke, but he ultimately set his pen aside. "If you have nothing crucial to convey, why seek me out?"
Du Wenming's brow furrowed slightly. "I wish to inform you that we are the bringers of hope to Puluo State, and only we possess the ability to revitalize it. As an intelligent individual, you ought to discern friend from foe. Puluo State can only escape the subjugation of the Inner State through an alliance with the Outside Provinces, yet your alignment remains undecided. Do you grasp my meaning?"
Du Wenming fixed Li Qi with a meaningful gaze.
Li Qi regarded Du Wenming with a serious expression.
After a prolonged silence, Li Qi inquired, "Are you finished?"
Du Wenming displayed clear dissatisfaction with Li Qi's demeanor. "Truthfully, I am not obligated to share this with you. The demand to disband the Defense Agency is untenable; we cannot assent to it. Furthermore, concerning the Three-Headed individuals held at Three-Head Fork, I am aware you previously harbored a group of them in Qi Qiu City, likely valuing their formidable combat prowess. However, these beings represent a significant threat to us, and we cannot risk placing them in the hands of others. That is all I can disclose. Do you now understand my position?"
Du Wenming recognized his tone was somewhat severe, potentially provoking Li Qi, but he felt it essential to deliver a stark message, compelling Li Qi to confront reality.
Li Banfeng remained unperturbed, his voice remarkably steady. "You are correct; indeed, you need not tell me these things. You need not tell me anything at all; your visit today was entirely superfluous."
Du Wenming's frown deepened. "I am conveying this because I believe you still possess a glimmer of hope!"
Li Qi let out a chuckle. "Whether I hold onto hope or not is of no consequence to you. As for how you choose to handle these two matters, it is entirely your concern, not mine. If you refuse to disband the Defense Agency, then so be it. Whether the Inner State wages war against you is irrelevant to me. If you decline to provide those five thousand individuals, then do not. How Green Flower resolves this issue has absolutely no bearing on me. I have discharged my duties as a Balancer; the remainder rests with your own actions. I have said all that needs to be said. Despite your perceived intelligence, this simple truth should be discernible to you, correct?"
Du Wenming's grip tightened on his teacup, and nearly a full minute elapsed in utter silence.
Li Qi observed him with a faint smile.
"You are right; these matters do not concern you, and it was unnecessary for me to relay them," Du Wenming stated slowly, his gaze fixed on Li Qi. "Your understanding of power dynamics remains incomplete. I hope it will not be too late when you achieve true comprehension."
With those words, Du Wenming rose and departed from Li Qi's office.
Li Qi took another sip of tea, returning his attention to the documents from the Dark Star Bureau.
Shen Jingye, still awaiting in the corridor, promptly approached as Du Wenming emerged.
"Director Du, how did the discussion proceed?"
Du Wenming cast a glance at Shen Jingye and offered a smile. "Director Shen, your task was indeed challenging."
Shen Jingye was somewhat perplexed. What challenge did he face?
Director Du's departure suggested the recent communication had not been particularly fruitful.
However, Shen Jingye admitted to himself that the outcome of the discussion was not his primary concern.
He had fulfilled his reporting obligations and facilitated the necessary exchanges; the matter was no longer under his purview.
Whistling a tune, Shen Jingye returned to his office. Li Qi, peeking through the slightly ajar door, observed him with a hint of disappointment.
*Little Shen, you're becoming complacent. I must find some new responsibilities for you.*
A meeting notice was delivered by Dumpling, scheduling an important gathering at the Dark Star Bureau for the upcoming Wednesday, with Director Du in attendance.
Li Qi examined the notice, a smile gracing his lips. "Little Shen, here lies an opportunity for you."
...
Later that evening, Chuuni, Dumpling, and Light Bulb insisted on treating Li Qi to dinner. Li Qi agreed, leading them to a hot pot establishment.
Li Banfeng had harbored a childhood fascination with hot pot. The bubbling red broth, emanating from a miniature chimney, seemed to hold the most exquisite culinary delights imaginable.
Yet, for Li Banfeng during that period, such gastronomic pleasures remained confined to the realm of fantasy.
Amidst the meal, the trio inquired about the events of that particular night.
Li Banfeng wavered, contemplating whether to disclose the details.
Considering their current capabilities, possessing excessive knowledge might prove detrimental to them.
Conversely, remaining ignorant could leave them vulnerable in future circumstances, a prospect Li Banfeng found concerning.
"Should any assignments arise in the future, ensure you inform me beforehand, even for operations of a sensitive nature." This was the sole piece of counsel Li Banfeng could offer them at that juncture.
However, Chuuni posed a crucial question: "Bureau Chief Li, will you remain at the Dark Star Bureau indefinitely?"
This fellow always had such a biting way of speaking.
Observing Li Banfeng's continued silence, Light Bulb swiftly steered the conversation elsewhere. "In my estimation, it would be preferable to accompany Chief Li to Puluo State when the time comes. I've developed quite an affection for Puluo State."
Dumpling pressed his lips together, offering no verbal response.
Li Banfeng chuckled, "You still wish to journey to Puluo State? Have you not endured enough tribulations?"
Light Bulb responded with a laugh, "With Seventh Master looking out for us, how could I possibly suffer?"
Chuuni chimed in, "Regardless of whether Chief Li intends to watch over me or not, I am determined to witness Puluo State for myself, lest I carry a lifetime of regret."
Li Banfeng paused in thought for a brief moment before picking up a ladle. He scooped a portion of meat, placing it before Chuuni. "Let us dine first."
...
Upon returning to his quarters, Li Banfeng ascended to the second-floor bedroom and proceeded to open a particular jar.
This vessel was specifically designed for the containment of Ghost Servants, housing within it the Playful Matron.
"Seventh Master, what are your commands?" the Playful Matron inquired, her voice laced with apprehension as she kept her head bowed.
Li Qi questioned, "How much Technique do you have remaining within you?"