Wen Xichi followed the shop-boy who led the way and walked slowly to the stairs. When he reached the landing, he turned slightly, and his eyes met the eyes of Yan Xi, who was watching him below. They looked at each other and quietly looked away.

Wen Xichi recognized Yan Xi, a party to Wang Shengxue's case.

Yan Xi also knew Wen Xichi, the Number One Scholar of the last exam and a current official of the Ministry of Justice.

Wen Xichi continued ...