The system finished probing Zhang Zhong's information, and Yuan Shu secretly sighed, "Good heavens."
Loyalty -40. He had never seen negative loyalty before. Just how much did this guy hate him?
This was practically a countdown to his own demise.
Despite harboring such deep hatred, Zhang Zhong could still sincerely call him "Lord" with every breath.
One had to admit, hypocrisy was a powerful skill. This man was truly a talent in the realm of corrupt officials.
Now that he knew Zhang Zhong's true intentions, acting—who wouldn't know how?
Yuan Shu also put on an excited expression, stepped forward, grasped Zhang Zhong's hand, and sincerely said:
"Minister Zhang is too modest. You were the former Governor of Nanyang, with outstanding merits.
I have only just arrived and am in great need of your assistance. I hope you will prioritize the people and help me govern Nanyang together!"
Hearing this, Zhang Zhong bowed deeply to Yuan Shu and said:
"If my lord commands it, how could I dare disobey?
I only wish to serve with utmost loyalty and repay my lord!"
Yuan Shu and Zhang Zhong's dramatic performance left the gathered noble scions utterly stunned.
Especially a few family heads, who were extremely puzzled.
Wasn't this supposed to be a setup to assassinate Yuan Shu?
Why did it now look like an ideal ruler and his virtuous minister? What was going on?
Were they not going to kill Yuan Shu anymore?
Even the group of assassins Zhang Zhong had hidden in ambush started to feel uncertain. Should they still proceed with the original plan?
Shi Ah, who was already well aware of the scheme, twitched at the corner of his mouth as he watched Yuan Shu's performance.
He secretly thought, "Isn't my lord overacting a bit?"
The grand hunting expedition began with a very positive atmosphere. Surrounded by an entourage, Yuan Shu arrived at a hunting ground fifty li from Nanyang City.
This hunting ground was well-established and managed by the influential Feng family of Nanyang.
The Feng family regularly bought wild animals and released them here for the amusement of Nanyang's noble sons.
But Yuan Shu had no hunting skills—he couldn't even hit a rabbit. He could only direct Wang Yue, Shi Ah, and others to hunt for him.
After an hour, the group had quite a fruitful haul.
During a short break, Zhang Zhong fawningly suggested to Yuan Shu:
"My lord, there are many rare and exotic beasts in the mountains ahead. Shall we hunt there later?
If we capture a rare beast, it would be perfect to hang in your governor's residence, showcasing your might and prestige."
Yuan Shu sneered internally—so they had another trick waiting there and wanted to lure him in.
But Xizhi Cai had already prepared countermeasures, so he wasn't afraid.
Yuan Shu slowly said:
"Oh? In that case, Minister Zhang, lead the way."
Zhang Zhong was secretly delighted. Everything was proceeding smoothly—Yuan Shu was about to step into their trap.
Led by Zhang Zhong, the group arrived at the mountainous region ahead.
This place was extremely treacherous, with only a narrow path leading up the mountain. Both sides were densely covered with trees, as if an entire army could be hidden within.
A cold glint flickered in Zhang Zhong's eyes as he said to Yuan Shu:
"My lord, let us ascend."
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