Threads 197-Rite 1

“Baroness Ling.” Her target, Baron Suo, turned to her as she approached. Her initial impression held; he had a genial sort of air. His robes were well embroidered but not gaudy, and his unexpressed domain had a placid feel. He was of the seventh stage of the green realm. If she assumed his father, the patriarch, was fourth realm, it seemed that the Suo family were quite stable for a baronial clan. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“I am likewise honored that the idea for my junior sister’s tour has been so well received. Thank you all very much for attending,” Ling Qi said politely, offering a bow slightly lower than was strictly necessary.

She listened with half an ear as the others introduced themselves, trusting Sixiang to help her match faces to names where necessary. The others in this circle were not titled themselves. They were children, siblings, and cousins to those who were. She traded pleasantries with them for a time.

“It is an interesting endeavor you’ve set out to organizing here,” Baron Suo commented. “Spirits have been imported into the valley before, but it is typically a more gradual process.”

“My junior sister enjoys her performances, but she is still a spirit. It is my hope that she may have some positive effect beyond enjoyment of her music,” Ling Qi replied.

“Fine music is a reward all its own,” Baron Suo said. “It is a sign of prosperous times that there is room for such events.”

Ling Qi listened carefully to the words of agreement and watched the expressions of the other nobles. She could respect that kind of attitude, she thought. “Well said, Baron Suo. To see that prosperity continue to grow and put down threats to it is my lady’s fondest dream.”

“Young Lady Cai’s ambition is most admirable,” one of the lesser nobles murmured.

“If only my own daughter could show even half of that drive and initiative,” an older woman sighed.

“I do hope she maintains her health. To take up such heavy responsibilities at this age…”

She allowed the tide of well wishes and compliments to wash over her, keeping a smile in place.

“Your words and concerns are too kind,” Ling Qi said. Sixiang’s whispers told her that not all were genuine. Although they would never voice it, a pair of teenagers being given such responsibilities was considered of dubious value. She marked out the faces that spoke of emotions darker than wariness or condescension. “Lady Cai and I will work diligently to exceed your expectations.”

“I am sure you will. Lady Ling has already gained some reputation for unorthodox solutions,” Baron Suo said cheerfully. He gestured to the temple around with the cup in his hand. “After all, here we stand.”

“It is important to keep in mind alternative solutions, even if it is sometimes best to stick with what already works,” Ling Qi said diplomatically.

“Wise,” said the baron, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. She thought he was being genuine, but neither she nor Sixiang could be fully sure of her read on him.

“Regarding solutions that have worked in the past, is it not a shame that the old lotus trade road has declined so?” Ling Qi ventured.

“Ah, that old thing,” Baron Suo said. “It is a shame that goods no longer flow from Black Lotus Mountain. Neither the Wang clan nor the Diao clan have been enthusiastic about exorcising the old Li lands. I cannot blame them.”

Ling Qi listened as others voiced similar words, bemoaning the loss of medicinal products which had once made the road a rich one, and complained of the rising cost of maintenance on mostly unused spans. The thrust of her question wasn’t missed, but again, she sensed a certain condescension as if she were a child proposing a plan that seemed obvious but wasn’t possible.

“Is it truly so dangerous that it cannot be resolved?” Ling Qi inquired. She couldn’t change that impression without more successes to her name, but she could play off of it to learn more of the situation.

“It’s not unresolvable like that patch of the western fens,” one noble murmured.

“I am sure any of the great houses could do so, let alone Her Grace.”

“Expensive. Terribly expensive. Exorcists of that caliber are not cheap, even ignoring the troops needed to hold the ruins whilst they work.”

“Ah, but who would claim the ownership after? A sticky situation.”

“It is not only a matter of danger, Baroness,” Baron Suo interjected, making the others fall silent. “In the chaos of Ogodei and the disposal of the Hui tyrants, many claims of land became confused. The southern pass is among them, and both the Diao and Wang have significant claims.”

“It is unfortunate that such matters would block such an important road from opening,” Ling Qi said. “I hope that this matter can be resolved in the near future.”

“From your lips to Her Grace’s ears,” Baron Suo said beatifically.

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Ling Qi shook her head. “Oh no, you overestimate me, Baron Suo.”

“Perhaps, but you have surprised others before, Baroness,” the older man said, dipping his head with a bit of respect. “I know that I would be most eager to repair the roads and bridges in my land if it ever became so.”

“That is good to hear,” Ling Qi said. “If—”

“Lady Ling.” Her words were cut off by the approach of a servant whose head was deeply bowed by the time she had turned her head to look at the woman. “There is a matter in the preparation room which requires your attention.”

Ling Qi pursed her lips but didn’t direct any of her irritation at the servant. “I apologize, Baron Suo. Please excuse me.”

“Of course. It has been pleasant speaking with you,” the Baron said, and similar murmurs echoed him.