Minister of Rites Wu Jingshan finally returned to the Kang Capital. He had only hurried back after receiving definite news that the Imperial Court had rewarded Hu Xiaotian. Wu Jingshan had never entertained the thought of competing with Hu Xiaotian for credit. Surviving this crisis unscathed was already a tremendous blessing; how could he dare harbor any extravagant ambitions? Moreover, while they were away on their diplomatic mission, Great Kang's throne had changed hands, and the Old Emperor had regained control of the realm. This left Wu Jingshan living in constant dread. He had been among the first to switch allegiance after Long Yelin took the throne, and he was the only one of the Six Ministries' ministers to retain his post. Although the Old Emperor had publicly announced that he would not hold court officials accountable for their earlier actions, how much faith could anyone place in an emperor's words?
Judging by the Old Emperor's conduct since regaining power, however, he did not seem eager to reshuffle the court. Apart from Ji Feihua, he had called no officials to account, giving Wu Jingshan a glimmer of hope. Upon learning that Hu Xiaotian had been appointed Deputy Imperial Bodyguard Commander, Wu Jingshan finally resolved to return to the Kang Capital.
Upon reaching the Kang Capital, Wu Jingshan did not even stop at home. He went straight to the Hu Residence to visit Hu Xiaotian.
When Hu Xiaotian heard that Wu Jingshan had returned, he hurried out to welcome him. Wu Jingshan had left the Yong Capital before Hu Xiaotian, and his journey home had been uneventful, but that did not mean he had enjoyed any peace of mind. The crushing pressure weighing on him had left him noticeably haggard during this time, making him look exceptionally old.
Seeing Wu Jingshan's