At the center of the hall stood the chubby Liu Qingping, who wore an oily, obsequious smile on his face. Jing Rong remained on his seat as he studied Liu Qingping before he s.h.i.+fted his icy gaze to the large pile of gifts on the table. People had always talked about Liu Qingping's miserly ways - his generosity today was certainly unexpected.

　　"Liu Qingping, are you trying to bribe this prince?"

　　"This one doesn't have that intention. This is just a simple gift… a simple gift…"

　　"That's enough. No more of these insincere, fawning words. No one visits without a motive. Tell me frankly, what do you want?"

　　Liu Qingping felt intimidated and immediately replied, "Ah! Your Highness must have misunderstood this one's intention. This one merely wishes to send my regards. This one carries no other motive and does not have the guts to ask for Your Highness's favor."

　　Isn't he just seeking trouble?

　　Jing Rong chuckled as he looked at Liu Qingping's nervous face. He acted along and asked teasingly, "Liu Qingping, do you still wish to put on your official uniform?"

　　Eh? I beg you to stop toying with my feelings!

　　"Prince, please stop mocking this one."

　　"When did this prince mock you? I was only asking if you wish to put on the uniform again. How was that mocking you?"

　　Liu Qingping became awkward and heaved a hopeless sigh. "Your Highness knows clearly that my official position was removed directly by the Ministry of Personnel. Moreover, Lord Liu is holding the position at the moment. I'm now but a common person. How dare I desire to wear the uniform again? That thought might even cost me my life!"

　　This must be a comedy!

　　Jing Rong could not hold back his laughter anymore. He walked towards Liu Qingping and patted his shoulder. "Can't you be more ambitious? One has to always have a dream and ambition. You had been working as an official for tens of years but your position was taken away for no legitimate reason. Are you really fine with that?"

　　"To be honest, this one… loathes the removal of my position." He flashed a rather bitter and unconvincing smile. "However, the magistrate of Jinjiang is now Lord Liu. How dare this one… yearn for his position."

　　"You absolutely can." Jing Rong patted his shoulder once again. "As long as you still have the will to serve the people. After Liu Qian is removed from his official position, this prince will send a letter to the Ministry of Personnel to personally recommend you. The Ministry of Personnel must take responsibility for removing you from your position without a firm reason. Therefore, they will definitely return you your official position with this prince's intervention."

　　Liu Qingping was sure he did not misunderstand Jing Rong's words. 'Returning to my official position! That means I don't have to play with the birds or quarrel with my wife every day!' He thought with his eyes s.h.i.+ning with excitement.