The study fell quiet again for a while. Father-in-law and son-in-law continued examining the scale, finding it harder to put down the longer they looked, but it was getting late.
"My good son-in-law, it's late now. Make sure you keep this Dragon Scale safe. I'll come admire it again another day!"
Landowner Liu prepared to leave, reluctantly reminding his son-in-law to take care of it. Guan Xinrui saw him to the study door, where the older man remembered to add something.
"By the way, Huifang and the child will be back tomorrow. Shall I have someone bring them over, or..."
"Please don't trouble yourself, Father-in-law. I'll send someone to fetch them tomorrow morning! If official business hadn't kept me so busy lately, I would certainly come in person!"
As Guan Xinrui spoke, he glanced toward the desk inside the study. Landowner Liu hastily nodded.
"Yes, yes, yes. This matter is important-of the utmost importance. How about this? Don't bother sending anyone. I'll bring them back myself, and help you think things through while I'm here!"
"Then you have my thanks, Father-in-law!"
Guan Xinrui was about to step outside to see him off, but Landowner Liu waved a hand.
"No need to accompany me any farther. I can leave on my own. Important business comes first. Perhaps you can draft the document tonight."
Then Landowner Liu leaned close to Guan Xinrui's ear and whispered a few words.
"The Fourth Prince is in the commandery seat right now. He sent someone to invite me there for a visit earlier, but I pleaded illness and didn't go. That could be another avenue for you. Through him, you might reach the emperor's ears directly!"
A hint of surprise crossed Guan Xinrui's face.
"You mean... bypass the commandery governor?"
Landowner Liu nodded slightly.
"Think it