In the end, Prefect Liu discarded his armor and fled, leaving behind a vast fortune accumulated over the years. Silver, gold, jewelry, antiques, precious calligraphy, paintings, exquisite rosewood furniture, top-quality silk and satin—all left behind in his haste. The pain in his heart was palpable as he realized the extent of his losses.
Prefect Liu wept bitterly, consumed by regret and self-directed scorn for his own foolishness.
But Shao Yunduan, ever the cunning strategist, had long harbored ambitions of rebellion. He meticulously concealed his intentions, leaving Prefect Liu in the dark and vulnerable to his machinations.
Prefect Liu's anger abated somewhat, replaced by a seething hatred towards Shao Yunduan. The desire for vengeance burned within him, compelling him to seek retribution.
