"Afraid that he might act recklessly and expose everything, our people would suffer a fatal blow."

"Thus, subordinate can only try to stabilize him first, make an agreement with him without showing that the lord wants to control him, and continue to interact as usual."

"This is the gift Wang Qianmao sent to the lord." Mr. Liu felt a bit embarrassed, noticing the hidden anger in Minister Qi’s eyes, which clearly showed his displeasure.

But Mr. Liu was helpless; even if he had leverage over Wang Qianmao, the opponent also had leverage over the Qi family, and Wang Qianmao was smart. He didn’t state things directly but hinted instead, and throughout, neither of them fell out openly.

At the same time, Wang Qianmao also stated that he was on the same side as the Qi family. Although he was somewhat upset by Elder Qi San’s actions of keeping a mistress outside, since Qi San had no heirs, he felt embarrassed to intervene and only hoped Minister Qi would treat Third Madam Qi kindly.

In Mr. Liu’s view, since there was no foolproof plan, there was no need to fall out with Wang Qianmao, especially since the other party had no intention of betraying the Qi family, right?

After listening, Minister Qi narrowed his eyes: "It doesn’t seem like he’s unprepared. Have you investigated whether he’s been holding onto those leverage points for a long time or if he’s only prepared them recently?"

"This..." Mr. Liu hadn’t actually checked. When talking to Wang Qianmao, he saw that the other party was calm and confident, clearly prepared. Such matters are quite common, otherwise, if one were sacrificed at any time, wouldn’t it be unjust?"

Even Mr. Liu himself had left himself a way out.

Seeing Minister Qi’s face darken due to his uncertain answer, Mr. Liu panicked inside and hurriedly vowed: "Lord, I will definitely investigate thoroughly." 𝚏𝗿𝗲𝐞𝚠𝕖𝐛𝗻𝗼𝐯𝕖𝚕.𝚌𝗼𝗺

"Given that you know not to expose our purpose and have stabilized Wang Qianmao, I’ll give you another chance to redeem yourself. Keep an eye on Wang Qianmao and Third Madam Qi. If there are any more slip-ups, I won’t be able to keep you. After all, the Qi Residence doesn’t keep useless people, but if you accomplish your tasks, I won’t treat you unfairly either."

Mr. Liu understood this was a deliberate warning, and quickly responded: "I will definitely redeem myself." He had known from the beginning that without ability, he wouldn’t be able to stay in the Qi family. Minister Qi’s words made him somewhat alarmed, but he felt no resistance.

The matter was dealt with.

Minister Qi then went to check the gift Wang Qianmao sent.

The gift was packed in a box. He opened it and saw a roster inside. After reviewing it, he felt somewhat better, smiled, and said: "Not bad, it seems Wang Qianmao has some insight. Didn’t expect he could know Jiangnan’s He Family and Zheng Family."

"Aren’t these two families just ordinary gentry? Although they’re wealthy merchants with some assets, they don’t have much background," Mr. Liu pondered.

"The Emperor wants to generously reward those who returned safely from overseas this time. The Zheng Family and the He Family are among those recognized."

"Congratulations, lord." Mr. Liu quickly reacted, immediately flattering.

Everyone loves to hear compliments, including Minister Qi. He indeed liked this gift, feeling reluctant to eliminate Wang Qianmao, as having such a capable and considerate subordinate was quite satisfying.

"As long as it’s confirmed that Wang Qianmao has no rebellious thoughts, he’ll still be treated with respect." Minister Qi decided.

Mr. Liu bowed, promptly nodding to indicate he understood.

And that night, Minister Qi instructed Lady Qi: "In the future, remind the people of the Second Household not to provoke the Third Household."