Two days later.
Autumn rain fell endlessly over the towering Forbidden City.
Yet inside the Eastern Palace, the Retired Emperor was full of vigor, his smile exceptionally smug.
He had received a message by carrier pigeon from his own son, the Prince of Zhennan.
The emperor's trusted confidant, Li Rangzhi, had fallen!
Who else but Jia Huan could have investigated the case?
After vanishing for over half a month, he had struck like thunder and arrested a worm gnawing at the state and its altars!
The Retired Emperor positively glowed as he said leisurely:
"I find myself admiring him more and more!"
"Prepare my carriage and ready the gifts. We are going to the Rongguo Mansion!"
Several Python-Robe Eunuchs immediately began preparing the imperial procession.
The old sovereign would condescend to visit the Jia Family, demonstrating his favor!
The Rongguo Mansion.
A powerful eunuch from the Directorate of Ceremonial strode into the Reception Hall.
He looked at Jia Mu and spoke rapidly:
"Old Madam, the Retired Emperor is coming in person. Prepare to receive him!"
Jia Mu's expression changed drastically, and apprehension gripped her.
Ever since her husband Jia Daishan had died, more than thirty years ago, the Retired Emperor had never visited the Jia Family again.
With the passing of that great general, once his trusted right arm, the Retired Emperor's affection for the Jia Family had gradually faded.
Now he was arriving without any warning. Who knew whether this heralded fortune or disaster!
The Rongguo Mansion bustled with activity, while Madam Wang hurried to the Grand View Garden.
"Baoyu, the Retired Emperor is honoring us with a visit. You must make a good impression!"
Her voice rang with excitement, and she was filled with anticipation.
A single word from the Retired Emperor might let Baoyu soar straight