a stitch in time saves nine

“Someone fetch Hu Junhui!”“Don’t call her!” Nie Huaisang yelped.“I am under specific orders to call her when the situation requires it,” the guard said steadily.“I gave you those orders! Now I’m taking it back!”“Sect Leader made it clear that his orders were incontrovertible, unable to be retracted even by himself.”“I know that, I said it,” Nie Huaisang grumbled, but he knew he’d already lost. He never won this particular battle—heavens curse him for the machinations of his past self.“Sect Leader Nie,” came a gentle voice from behind the door.Nie Huaisang plonked his face into his palm, letting it squish his cheek. “Enter,” he grumbled.The door slid open to reveal an older lady with a beatific smile. Though her face was lined and her hair shot with silver she was still beautiful. She bowed deeply. He hated her so much.“If I may begin, Sect Leader?”