Chapter 2352: Invincible

Shao Liulang was taken aback and infuriated by Zhang Wenshu, the Prefect of Hangzhou, making such a provocative remark at the reception banquet!

It was akin to insulting the Emperor directly.

“You show no respect for the ruler!” Shao Liulang erupted in anger.

Zhang Wenshu, however, remained unfazed and smiled. “Lord Imperial Envoy, please understand. This is simply a local custom. To avoid any misunderstandings, let’s follow the local saying: when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Here, we focus on conviviality and leave politics aside. Since you’re here, let’s enjoy ourselves and have a few more toasts! We can discuss any serious matters later. Isn’t this the best way to make the most of both our time?”

The guests quickly grasped Zhang Wenshu’s intention and eagerly joined in.

“Exactly! Lord Zhang is right!”

“Yes, that’s how it should be!”

“Come, let’s drink!”

“Let me offer a toast to you, Lord Imperial Envoy!”

“…”

When it came to deflecting and diverting topics, it was clear that a single person couldn’t compete with a group. Two fists could hardly stand up to four hands.

Shao Liulang was seething, but there was little he could do in the face of such a united front.

Shao Yunduan watched with silent amusement as he finished his wine. It was a relief; now he didn’t have to worry about Shao Liulang’s outbursts anymore. Any further confrontation would be irritating but not particularly damaging.

Despite Shao Liulang’s growing frustration, the others continued to act as though nothing was amiss, treating his anger with indifference. They engaged in light-hearted conversation and toasts, deftly avoiding any discussion of serious matters. Every time Shao Liulang attempted to steer the conversation towards business, someone would expertly redirect it, leaving him unable to make any headway.

After several fruitless attempts, Shao Liulang was thoroughly exhausted and had no choice but to concede.

But giving up was not in his nature.

Realizing that First Old Master Qiao was of no help, Shao Liulang ignored him and focused on persistently bothering Shao Yunduan every day.

As a member of the Shao Family, Shao Yunduan was bound by familial obligations, which meant he couldn’t directly confront Shao Liulang. Though Shao Liulang wasn’t afraid, he felt the need to continue the charade for appearances’ sake.

Shao Liulang’s behavior was aggressive and unreasonable, but Shao Yunduan’s approach—marked by tolerance and politeness—demonstrated propriety and moral integrity. This not only upheld his own dignity but also reassured and bolstered the confidence of his supporters.

If he showed no mercy towards his blood relatives, it would be seen as cold-heartedness in pursuit of his goals. Even if his actions were justified, aimed at securing his own and others’ future, they could still instill fear.

This was particularly true in the wake of his dealings with Old Master Qiao and his wife.

Shao Yunduan had to tread carefully in his interactions with his family. He needed to balance maintaining his principles with managing familial relationships.

It was uncertain whether Shao Liulang had considered this, but his recklessness was becoming increasingly apparent.

Fortunately, Zhang Wenshu was efficiently managing affairs in Hangzhou City, and everything was proceeding according to plan. Shao Yunduan found himself relatively free from unexpected issues. Since Shao Liulang was intent on being a nuisance, he would deal with him as needed.

He was curious to see how long Shao Liulang would persist in his futile efforts.

After the meeting, Qiao Xuan did not encounter Shao Liulang again. She was occupied with regular visits to the harbor outside Hangzhou City to oversee the progress of construction and the building of new and old ships.

On this particular day, upon her return from the harbor, she was met with a group of uninvited guests at her residence.

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