Explanation

Li Xuan retrieved a piece of paper containing a drawing made by Li Ming earlier. The sketch depicted a rock formation, a groundwater reservoir, and nearby oil reservoirs. The groundwater reservoir was situated at a higher level but in close proximity to an oil reservoir. The drawing extended to include the river and several trees, indicating the flow of water from beneath them directly into the groundwater reservoir.

"Please take a look at this drawing," Li Xuan directed their attention to the water reservoir. "This represents the ground beneath the city. Underground, there is a layer of rock that contains water, which we tap into for the water well."

The elders, despite their lack of geological knowledge, were not foolish and understood the drawing's implications. The First Elder inquired, "Are you suggesting that the reason the water well never runs dry is because it is being replenished from that reservoir?"

"Yes, if you recall the drought we experienced seven years ago, you should be able to verify it," Li Xuan stated.

The First Elder contemplated for a moment and then responded, "Now that I think about it, the drought lasted for several months. In the initial two months, we were able to draw water from the well, but afterward, the well ceased to produce any water. However, a few months after the drought ended, the water in the well was miraculously restored. It was like a miracle at that time..." The First Elder fell silent, finally realizing the truth behind that event.

"Indeed," Li Xuan confirmed, pointing at the oil reservoir. "However, please consider this oil reservoir located not far below the water reservoir. It is currently the primary suspect in this incident."

"What do you mean? Are you implying that your collaboration with this man to extract oil is causing the problem?" the Second Elder interjected with a serious expression.

"While I would like to prove to you that our work is not causing this incident, we cannot simply split open the ground and examine its contents, can we? That's why I have come here armed with this knowledge," Li Xuan calmly responded, anticipating this line of questioning.

"Pause your inquiries for a moment. I want to hear what she has to say," Li Changming interjected, halting the two elders' interrogations and focusing on the issue at hand.

"Yes," Li Xuan acknowledged. "Have the three elders heard of tectonic plate movements?"

The first and second elders nodded in affirmation, while the tenth elder indicated his lack of knowledge.

"Since the tenth elder is unfamiliar, allow me to provide a brief explanation," Li Xuan continued, explaining the concept of tectonic plate movements. Upon concluding her explanation, she added, "What is currently occurring is that the rock formation in this area is cracking, creating a migration path for oil to reach the groundwater reservoir."

Li Xuan drew a straight line on the sketch, connecting the two reservoirs. The First Elder's eyes widened in surprise, exclaiming, "So, there is a connection between them, causing the oil to flow into the water reservoir?"

"We cannot confirm if this is true," the Second Elder interjected skeptically.

"I actually have a question for you," Li Xuan turned her gaze towards the Second Elder. "Since you believe our work is the cause, can you explain how? If we were to strike the ground with all our might or even create more water wells, would that truly lead to this problem?"

The Second Elder clenched his teeth and responded, "Even so, you are involved in oil extraction."

Though the Second Elder remained firm in his belief that they were at fault, he could understand Li Xuan's explanation to some extent. They could strike the ground with their martial arts, but their efforts had no impact on the ground. Otherwise, such an incident would have occurred earlier. Only a phenomenon like an earthquake, which causes the ground to tremble, could result in such an outcome. Yet, it was challenging to prove. Moreover, Li Xuan and Li Ming were the only ones involved in this particular issue, making it easy to assign blame to them once the situation escalated.

Li Xuan clicked her tongue, knowing that if more people were present, many would side with the Second Elder. With the impasse reached, Li Changming shifted his gaze to Li Ming, who had been quietly seated behind Li Xuan throughout the discussion.

"Do you have anything to say, Li Ming?" Li Changming inquired.

"Yes," Li Ming nodded. "Before that, I have been studying the geology of this area, including the city. Surprisingly, this city appears to have abundant oil and water resources. However, I don't know if you have noticed, but..." Li Ming pointed to the river and the forest, where the ground served as a source for the groundwater reservoir.

"The abundant water resources are located west of the city. Meanwhile, the area I have been working in is in the east. That is precisely why I chose to go east. I sought a long-term relationship and ensured that my goals would not harm the city," Li Ming explained.

"I carefully calculated the risks and expanded only in the eastern direction. It is true that there are some oil spots in the west, and two of the oil springs are still in use today. However, I am aware that causing harm to the city would only create more problems for the Li Clan. Therefore, I refrained from expanding in that direction. Furthermore, I meticulously measured the distances to ensure that the city would not be affected even if something were to happen at my site. However, as Li Xuan mentioned earlier, although I can explain all this to you, it will be difficult to gain your trust."

Li Ming raised a finger and directed his attention to the person responsible for handling the incident report. "Thus, I have a question for the individual overseeing this problem, the Tenth Elder."

Li Changming pointed towards the Tenth Elder, indicating that he should respond to Li Ming's query.

Li Ming turned to the Tenth Elder and asked, "If you don't mind answering, when did you receive the report regarding this incident?"