The news that Li Rufeng had led his garrison to two consecutive victories in the military exercises spread back to the Imperial Palace like wildfire. Upon hearing this, the Empress summoned several key ministers to the Imperial Garden to discuss the matter.
Seated gracefully on a stone stool in the pavilion with a slight smile, the Empress spoke first: "My esteemed ministers, I hear that the camp led by Li Rufeng has won complete victories in both exercises. What are your thoughts on this matter?"
The Prime Minister gave a slight bow, stroking his beard as he said, "Your Majesty, although Li Rufeng previously acted rather absurdly, the fact that he was able to whip the garrison into such fine shape in so short a time and win both exercises shows that he indeed possesses genuine ability."
Chapter 27