Zhao Hongyi was taken aback!

The young man had a big mouth. Officials of the fourth and fifth ranks weren't even worth his notice? Zhao Hongyi couldn't tell whether he really had the clout to back it up or was just putting on a show.

But the remark didn't sit well with Liang Anzhi and Ji Leshan.

Ji Leshan was a governor, Third Rank, Junior Grade.

Liang Anzhi, as prefect, was Fourth Rank, Senior Grade.

Ji Leshan gave a smile that went no deeper than the skin. "What a big mouth. A merchant family, and officials of the fourth and fifth ranks aren't worth your notice, capital officials at that... Don't tell me everyone you know is a great officer of the First or Second Rank?"

Ning Chen smiled. "As a matter of fact, yes!"

A jolt went through Liang Anzhi and Ji Leshan!

Ning Chen looked at Zhao Hongyi. "The gentleman said just now that he knows plenty of senior officials of the court. Are there any great officers of the First or Second Rank among them?"

Zhao Hongyi smiled. "You're joking, young sir... This old man is only a small businessman. How could I know great officers of the First or Second Rank?"

Ning Chen's eyes narrowed. This Zhao Hongyi kept his mouth shut tight. He'd been dodging with pleasantries from start to finish and wouldn't say who he actually knew.

Listening outside the door a moment ago, Ning Chen had already realized there was more to Zhao Hongyi than met the eye.

A merchant who ranked above officials of the court. There had to be serious power behind him.

Liang Anzhi looked Ning Chen over and suddenly laughed. "Young people do love to brag. At your age, how could you possibly know great officers of the First or Second Rank... Do you know that claiming connections you don't have can get you into a lot of trouble?"

Ning Chen smiled. "It's fine. With my old man around, nobody would dare lay a finger on me."

Liang Anzhi drew out a sarcastic "Oh? And who might your esteemed…