Chapter 14: Support
"Thank you, Mr. Li Ming," Li Changming expressed his gratitude, clasping his hands. They stood in the mansion's entrance, where Li Xuan had managed to calm both the people and Li Changming himself. As a result, Li Changming could easily restore order within the clan and send his people to calm the townspeople as well. He was grateful for Li Ming's insights, which helped them handle the situation better than others.
"It's not a problem. I promised to explain it to her, after all," Li Ming replied with a smile.
"You're very generous. If you need anything else, feel free to discuss it with my daughter. I will support her in whatever she needs," Li Changming assured him.
"Thank you. It's reassuring to have the patriarch's support," Li Ming acknowledged. "In that case, we shall depart once again. There are many preparations that need to be done."
"Certainly, I won't keep you any longer."
Li Ming and Li Xuan boarded the carriage, ready to leave the city once more. Unbeknownst to them, a young man was watching their exchange from a distance. Li Ming would recognize him as the person they had encountered during their exploration—Li Heng.
Li Heng's gaze fixed intently on Li Ming, his expression grave and contemplative. His thoughts remained unknown to anyone.
Meanwhile, Li Ming handed another paper to Li Xuan and said, "This is the drawing I made to explain tectonic plate movements. I forgot about it earlier because I was also panicking. So..."
Li Ming scratched the back of his head. He should have been calmer since he knew about the situation, unlike the others. However, it turned out that he couldn't remain calm the entire time.
With a smile, Li Xuan asked, "In that case, can you teach me about it again? I seem to have a few questions."
Li Ming nodded in agreement and began explaining once again while they were learning. During this time, Li Xuan couldn't help but recall her earlier conversation with her father.
After explaining the current situation, Li Changming approached her and said, "Thank you."
"I'm just relaying the information Li Ming shared with me," Li Xuan modestly replied. "I'm not worthy of your thanks."
"No, you made Li Ming promise to talk about it. So, it's your contribution. Besides, you are likely the only one who can ask Li Ming about it. Others may have the authority, but not the right approach. There's even a chance they might threaten him for the information. While it may be useful, we seek a long-term relationship."
"Therefore, I entrust Li Ming to your care. I'm sure you've also suspected it... that Li Ming is a scholar."
Li Xuan nodded, her expression serious. Li Ming's knowledge surpassed that of ordinary scholars. Their family had a few scholars, but their knowledge couldn't be compared to Li Ming. Li Ming's hometown must be exceptional, and it would be beneficial to maintain a friendly relationship with him.
"That's correct. After hearing your report yesterday, it's best if you also carry your weapon with you. Make sure to protect Li Ming."
"Yes, Father. However, Li Ming's physique seems trained, unlike that of a normal scholar. I fear he is an extraordinary individual equipped with both intellect and martial prowess."
"That's true. But right now, the most valuable aspect of Li Ming is his knowledge. I hope you can continue to stay by his side and learn as much information as possible."
"I will do my best. I've noticed that Li Ming doesn't use complicated words when explaining things to me... In that sense, his knowledge can be easily transferred to others," Li Xuan recalled their conversations.
"I see. In that case, make sure no other clan approaches him. There are two lesser clans in this town, the Han and the Mu. If they dare to make a move against him, you have my permission to take any necessary action. I will handle the rest."
"Understood," Li Xuan acknowledged with a serious expression.
As she reflected on her conversation with her father, Li Xuan couldn't help but wonder what possibilities Li Ming would bring to the Li Clan. The more she spoke with him, the more she realized how intelligent and capable he was. Despite her own intelligence and strength, she felt she was nowhere near his level.
In her heart, she made a vow to learn as much as possible from Li Ming, even without her family's request. She wanted to become stronger and more capable, to the point where she wouldn't be looked down upon simply because she was a woman.
Having settled the situation within the mansion, they headed straight to Elder Han to acquire the spring pole and provide him with the next tasks. Elder Han was genuinely surprised by the unique nature of their request, but it piqued his interest. He eagerly followed their instructions and worked diligently to create the tools Li Ming had asked for.
After addressing Elder Han's inquiries, they promised to return before noon to check on the progress. For now, they had another task at hand—a geological survey and inspection of other oil reserves. Li Xuan had prepared all the necessary information about the reserves in nearby areas.
Weekly Power Status
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