The End of the Taihu Lake Affair

Astonishment was one thing.

The proper words still had to be said.

"Everyone."

Lu Jingchun rose, bowed to the three Gold Robes, then turned and cupped his fists toward the assembled officers below the dais.

"Today's battle at Taihu Lake was a resounding victory."

"The River-Turning Demon King has been slain, and the flooding at Taihu Lake has been ended in a single stroke. This is a blessing for the East Riverlands and for Great Tang."

"First credit for this battle naturally belongs to the three Gold Robes. Through your careful planning, you forced that monster into the open with thunderous force."

"However..."

"Without Inspector Jiang's heaven-shaking strike at Cross-Mountain Ferry to cut off the monster's retreat and kill it on the spot, today's battle might have taken countless more twists and turns."

"Inspector Jiang, please accept a bow from me—and from the people of the East Riverlands!"

With that,

this mighty official of the Lotus-Seeding Realm bowed all the way down.

At his bow,

the dozens of deputy generals and Langjiang in the hall rose together.

Solemn-faced, they cupped their fists and bowed to the young woman.

"Thank you, Inspector Jiang!"

"You give me too much credit, Lord Lu."

Jiang Yuechu rose slowly. "One who accepts the sovereign's pay must serve the sovereign's cause."

"Since I wear this Silver Robe, slaying demons is my duty. There's no need for thanks."

After a round of pleasantries,

dusk was drawing near.

Jiang Yuechu disliked occasions like this. With the business concluded, she had no desire to stay.

She picked up the long saber beside her, hung it at her waist, and gave everyone a slight nod.

"I have other matters to attend to, so I'll take my leave."

With that,

she turned to go.

"Wait, child."

Jiang Yuechu stopped.

She looked