Sima Qianyu swept out a hand and said in a deep voice, "Someone, quickly invite Captain Yan into the hall!"
Before long, a tall, upright figure stepped into the main hall.
The newcomer wore an embroidered blue-green uniform, a long saber hanging at his waist. His features were handsome, and a sharp, heroic air shone between his brows. It was none other than Yan Shuangfei.
The moment he entered, he cupped his hands in salute. "This subordinate, Yan Shuangfei, pays respects to Deputy Commander!"
Sima Qianyu strode forward and pulled him up. The anxiety on his face eased somewhat, replaced by a faint smile. "Captain Yan, no need for such formalities. You must have had a hard journey."
Sima Ling followed close behind, walking to Yan Shuangfei's side as she said sweetly, "Shuangfei, you finally came."
"If it hadn't been for you back in Gu County last time..."
Yan Shuangfei smiled helplessly and quickly waved his hands. "Miss Sima, you've already thanked me many times. This time, you recommended me into the Imperial Guards and allowed me to rise in rank and receive a title. I should be the one thanking you."
"Just call me Ling'er!"
Sima Ling's cheeks flushed faintly. Her eyes shimmered, and a trace of tenderness hid within the way she looked at Yan Shuangfei.
"Calling me Miss Sima all the time makes us seem so distant."
Yan Shuangfei froze for a moment, then nodded. "All right, Ling'er."
What was going on here?
When Sima Qianyu saw this scene, his heart gave a sudden thump, and he was filled with astonishment.
His niece had always possessed a fierce temperament. Working in the Imperial Guards, she was even more decisive than most men. When had she ever shown such a young maiden's demeanor?
Could it be that when