Cao Zhengchun's Machinations

In the capital city, within the depths of the Eastern Depot, high in the attic...

"Iron Claw Flying Eagle, where do you suppose this Su Xin has vanished to?" Cao Zhengchun idly inquired, his fingers leisurely toying with a jade snuff bottle of lamb-fat white.

Iron Claw Flying Eagle bowed respectfully, his demeanor deferential. "Master, rumor has it that Gu Santong has ascended to the rank of Grandmaster, and it's feared he has spirited Su Xin away from the Heavenly Pool."

"Plausible," Cao Zhengchun mused without lifting his gaze, continuing to handle the snuff bottle absently. "With Gu Santong now elevated to Grandmaster, it may prove challenging to locate Su Xin if she's hidden away with him."

"Master, according to intelligence, Su Xin seems to have experienced a resurrection," Iron Claw Flying Eagle reminded, "If Su Xin has indeed acquired all the Heavenly Fragrance Cardamoms, it's unlikely she'll resurface."