Liu Zhizhong, having heard too much flattery over time, found it annoying, yet also rather satisfying.
Of course, he better understood the meaning behind those words, which were genuine compliments but also, in effect, groundwork for the forthcoming discussion.
Before long, Zhang Zhengchang came back, beaming with a puffy face, carrying tea that he had personally brewed and poured for everyone, with Liu Zhizhong being the first to be served.
In the past, the first to be served would certainly have been Li Tanglu, followed by Luo Tianlin, then Zhang Zhengchang himself, and lastly Liu Zhizhong.
Today, Liu Zhizhong was first, Li Tanglu second, Luo Tianlin third, and finally Zhang Zhengchang; Old Zhang ranked the lowest, haha....
In officialdom, respecting hierarchies and following protocols is very important!
Although Liu Zhizhong attempted to decline, it was merely a polite gesture and he couldn't resist.
