Spurring his swift horse onward and riding hard day and night, Jia Huan reached the Divine Capital ahead of the others at dawn.
The reason for his haste was Scholar's urgent pigeon message: the Three Judicial Offices had begun investigating the Rongguo Mansion, making a great fuss over the charge that "the imperially invested Lady Zhao and Jia Wangshi had insulted the Princess Consort." If he did not return in time, Explosive Charcoal and Iron Palm would be unable to withstand the official orders issued by the Three Judicial Offices.
Outside the city, in the River Valley, Scholar, Twin Whips, and his other trusted men had been waiting for some time.
Jia Huan reined in his horse and demanded sharply:
"How are things?"
Scholar reported, "Boss, the Southern Office helped us hold them off for two more days."
Then he asked anxiously:
"Boss, did you find evidence of their crimes?"
Hearing that Mother and the others were unharmed, Jia Huan's expression returned to normal. He nodded.
"Treason and aiding the enemy. The evidence stands like a mountain!"
Scholar let out a long breath of relief, a brilliant smile spreading across his face, and recounted everything that had happened over the past few days.
That damned Prince certainly had his methods, using his connections to bring in the Directorate of Ceremonial and the Three Judicial Offices. Fortunately, after the boss's promotion to Thousand-Household Commander, the Embroidered Uniform Guard Office had begun taking him very seriously, and Commissioner Ouyang had stood firm against the tide of public opinion.
"Thank you for your hard work." Approval shone in Jia Huan's eyes. Scholar was indeed exceptionally capable.
"It is my honor to serve you, Boss!"
Scholar's words rang out with conviction. With their pillar of strength back, even his voice sounded much lighter.
Jia