Li Zhiqun faced numerous difficulties at work, constantly hampered by others, and was under immense pressure. This time, he returned with all his hopes on Shanghai, after all, Shanghai is an adventurer's paradise. As long as you have power and influence, it is a huge treasure trove where you can acquire endless wealth at any time.
Upon hearing this, Luo Xingchao couldn't help but feel a little regretful. He had previously tried to transfer Li Zhiqun back to Shanghai, but his goal of eliminating Wu Shicai had not been achieved. Instead, Li Zhiqun had stayed and was now focusing on the case of Cha Yutang's disappearance, continuing to investigate the Shanghai Intelligence Bureau. Thinking about it, it was truly a case of losing more than he gained.
The two talked for a while longer before Luo Xingchao took his leave. After returning to his office, he felt increasingly uneasy. To be on the safe side, he decided that some tasks should be handled in advance, so he immediately called Cui Yuanfeng to his office.
“We miscalculated this time. We didn’t bring down Wu Shicai, but we got ourselves into trouble. Li Zhiqun now wants me to find clues left behind by Cha Yutang. That’s easy enough; I’ll find a way to cover it up. But I’m worried that he’ll investigate whether Feng Sinian’s identity has been leaked. You’ve been investigating this matter all along. Think carefully about whether you’ve revealed any flaws. We must ensure that nothing goes wrong!”
Upon hearing this, Cui Yuanfeng thought carefully for a moment before slowly shaking his head and saying, "The investigation was carried out very discreetly. The only person who had direct contact with Feng Sinian was Qin San, and he was also the one who took the photos of Feng Sinian. However, he was in charge of logistics, delivering meals and cleaning. It was normal for him to have contact with Feng Sinian, so no one should suspect him."
Besides, everyone knows Qin San is one of our people. We can't find any solid evidence in the Special Agent Headquarters, so who would dare to touch him easily?
My concern is on another front. When I investigated Feng Sinian in the black market, I did ask some acquaintances, which might be inappropriate. What do you think, might they…?
"That's a problem!"
Luo Xingchao said decisively. He stood up and paced around the room. He stopped abruptly, turned to Cui Yuanfeng, and asked, "Are these people you found reliable?"
Cui Yuanfeng said uncertainly, "Although these people are old acquaintances, they do black market business. They are greedy for money and will forget about righteousness for profit. How can we be sure?"
Luo Xingchao decisively said, "Write down all the information about these people immediately, including their names, addresses, places they frequent, etc. The more detailed the better. I will report to the intelligence department and have them take action as soon as possible to send these people to the concession to hide them temporarily. Once this storm has passed, send them out of Shanghai. If they don't know what's good for them, then get rid of them. In short, we can't leave any hidden dangers behind!"
The next morning, in an elegant room of the Mulan Academy in eastern Shanghai, several men dressed in kimonos were gathered around a table, carefully examining a blue stone carving on the table, and making sounds of amazement.
This is a galloping horse, its head held high, its long mane flying, its front hooves leaping, its posture magnificent, as if it is roaring to the sky in a burst of vigor. The shape is lifelike and vivid.
Ning Zhiheng couldn't resist reaching out and taking it in his hand, his eyes fixed on it. It was a pale green color, pure and slightly transparent, without any cracks or impurities. It felt cool to the touch, indicating that it was made of high-quality Qingtian stone.
"Takano-kun, your carving skills are becoming more and more refined. This horse has a concise shape, skillful and smooth carving techniques, and clear lines. It is truly a rare masterpiece!"
Hearing Ning Zhiheng's lavish praise, Takano Takayuki's eyes crinkled into a smile.
"It is a great honor to receive praise from Fujiwara-kun. However, I spent two whole months on this work and put in a lot of effort. I am very satisfied with it."
After saying that, Takano Takayuki could no longer hide the smile on his lips and couldn't help but laugh out loud.
Takano Takayuki is a famous Japanese sculptor and a prized disciple of the national treasure-level master Kanda Tamayama. He is an expert sculptor and a frequent visitor to the Makuran Shain.
The renowned calligrapher and painter Hiroki Ito, standing nearby, nodded in admiration and said, "Takano-kun, congratulations on completing such a wonderful work. It is truly outstanding. I will paint it as a memento."
At this point, he turned to Ning Zhiheng and continued, "Fujiwara-kun's calligraphy skills are unparalleled; I'll have to trouble you to write a piece!"
Ning Zhiheng still agreed, and said with a smile, "How could I disobey!"
When Takano Takayuki saw that his masterpiece, which he had painstakingly completed over many days, had been recognized by everyone, he was overjoyed and clapped his hands and laughed, "That's wonderful! When the physical sculpture and the calligraphy and painting are matched as a set, it will surely be a wonderful story. Let me make it clear first, this calligraphy and painting is mine, and no one can take it from me!"
Upon hearing this, the other artists were quite supportive, making jokes and teasing Takano Takayuki. Laughter filled the elegant room, and the atmosphere was extremely harmonious.
Ning Zhiheng also thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful moment. Putting aside ethnicity and political stance, spending each day with these masters who are passionate about literature and art, reciting elegant poems and immersing himself in their art, was indeed a delightful experience.
Pleasant times always pass quickly. After spending a long time together, everyone dispersed, but Ning Zhiheng suggested that Takano Takayuki stay behind.
"Takano-kun, it's been a long time since we've gotten together. If you're free today, don't go back. Let's have a drink!"
Upon hearing Ning Zhiheng's invitation, Takano Takayuki naturally did not refuse. Although Fujiwara Tomohito treated them artists in a friendly manner, they all knew very well that this Fujiwara-kun was their patron, a top-tier nobleman of noble status, and they had to maintain sufficient respect and dare not be negligent in the slightest.
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