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Xu Qing saw Zhou Taixuan leaving and explained to Xie Quan who stayed behind: "Western painting has its own unique features. In our dynasty, there is a painter with the surname Zeng who invented a technique called the 'Ink Bone Method,' which was created under the influence of Western painting to a certain extent."

Xie Quan knew of this person. This painter would always start by carefully outlining the structure of the face using an ink pen, then lightly shade it with diluted ink to delicately portray the bone and muscle contours and subtle changes of the face. Finally, he would apply color, layering with light colors to exquisitely display the three-dimensionality of the facial structure, renowned as "like a mirror capturing reflection, vividly lifelike."

With this unique technique, he established a distinctive painting style in South Zhili and was already counted among the famous artists of the time, commanding substantial fees for his work.

Nowadays, this man is nearly eighty years old and still plans to marry a young girl in her twenties.

Moreover, his wife had already passed away from illness three times.

It is said that they were all long-tormented by physical exhaustion from affairs, which led to their frail health and sickness.

Then Xu Qing revealed his deeper intention: "It's almost the end of the year again. I plan to let Zhou Taixuan paint a portrait for Your Majesty and then find someone to replicate and post it in various Government Offices to showcase imperial authority."

He spoke while lightly pacing, his fingers rhythmically tapping the table, as if envisioning a grand painting.

Hearing this, Xie Quan couldn't help but secretly admire Xu Qing's cleverness. This move skillfully flattered Your Majesty without spending much money.

The key is that the officials of the Great Yu Dynasty have always been keen on pursuing progress. With the portrait of the old emperor hung in the offices, naturally, they would think of adding some other complements, such as a portrait of Xu Liushou or Master. Even if Xu Qing didn't mention it, the members of the Recovery Society would inevitably propose it actively.

One portrait can subtly deepen Xu Qing's authority further, and it does so without the need for mandatory orders, achieving multiple objectives at once.

Actually, this approach has an interesting resemblance to the Taoist and Buddhist practices of enshrining deity statues. The difference lies in Xu Qing's method being more silent and unobtrusive.

Moreover, the organizational structure of religious communities is famously meticulous, providing many aspects worth learning and referencing.

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After agreeing with Xie Quan, Xu Qing went to Yannian Palace to meet the old emperor, preparing to propose the matter of hanging portraits in the Government Offices.

The palace of Yannian was magnificent and splendid, with carved beams and painted pillars, fully showcasing royal majesty.

Xu Qing steadily walked into the palace and respectfully saluted the old emperor, stating his purpose.

Upon hearing this, the old emperor couldn't help but smile: "You, young man, you're always adept at concocting these ingenious schemes. Focus your mind more on proper matters." His voice carried a hint of indulgence, and the smile on his face was amiable, as if watching over his junior.

Xu Qing maintained a solemn expression and earnestly replied: "Matters concerning Your Majesty are the greatest affairs of the realm." He slightly bowed his head, his tone firm, his eyes revealing loyalty to the old emperor.

The corners of the old emperor's mouth slightly raised, showing a smile of gratification, and then he changed the subject, inquiring about the situation in the North. Nowadays the North has shown signs of independence, yet the old emperor and Xu Qing tacitly chose not to break this veil.

Xu Qing only diplomatically mentioned Prince Yu's bold reforms in the North and how important ministers like Wang Gong were fully supporting them, while also expressing his approval of these measures… His words were cautiously thought-out, each sentence carefully considered, acknowledging Prince Yu's reforms while avoiding sensitive political issues.

The old emperor slightly nodded, sighing: "It's comforting that Prince Yu could take this step. However, young people tend to act impulsively; if the actions are not comprehensive enough, they certainly will cause trouble. At that time, you ministers should work hard to correct his mistakes."

His eyes revealed a hint of worry, seemingly concerned about Prince Yu's future.

Such a model of a benevolent father!

"I, and others, will certainly strive with all our might, serving diligently like dogs and horses, and more importantly wish Your Majesty everlasting longevity." Xu Qing's words were heartfelt, the final phrase "everlasting longevity" being the crux. He raised his voice, his tone full of sincerity.

The old emperor was very delighted to hear this: "People, they shouldn't live too long. The longer they live, the more disliked they become."

He sighed softly, his face showing a hint of despondency, as if lamenting the ruthlessness of time.

Xu Qing promptly and righteously rebutted: "Your Majesty is the pillar of our Great Yu, revered by all. Your Majesty's longevity is the blessing of our Great Yu, the fortune of the people." He spoke grandly, his face full of admiration.

The conversation between ruler and minister was harmonious, time quietly slipped away amid joyful laughter. Xu Qing went on to say that he had already found a theater group to arrange scripts for Journey to the West for the emperor's leisure entertainment. The old emperor was interested and even jokingly said Xu Qing was his Guanyin Bodhisattva, appearing everywhere, helping those in need...

In short, the ruler and ministers enjoyed their time together but tacitly agreed not to mention the matter of Xu Xuanhu.

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…

When Xu Qing left Yannian Palace, the old emperor turned to Chen Zhong beside him and said: "This young man has aspirations as high as the sky. By the way, how is the situation of the Xu family's young one now?" He slightly furrowed his brow, his eyes revealing a hint of concern.

"It's said Madam Xu has locked him up, preventing anyone from contacting him, delivering meals regularly each day," Chen Zhong answered cautiously.

He knew Xu Qing well, yet regarding matters of the Xu Family, he held nothing back from the old emperor. Of course, what the old emperor didn't inquire about, he mixed into a heap of secret notes and presented them. Anyways, if the old emperor saw them, it was Xu Qing's bad luck; if he didn't, Chen Zhong wouldn't be held accountable.

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