Early morning.
The Imperial Path in the Imperial City.
Under gaze after gaze, Jia Huan entered the place from which decrees went out to all under heaven.
Inside the Grand Secretariat's offices, the ministers had just arrived and were reviewing state affairs and reading official documents.
At the sight of the young man in the Purple Python Robe, Chief Grand Secretary Yang nodded approvingly.
"In the battle of Northern Liang, Pacification Commissioner Jia turned back the raging tide and secured victory. Truly a blessing for the State and Altars!"
Jia Huan smiled and offered his greetings.
After the pleasantries, Chief Grand Secretary Yang asked him directly:
"What choice have you made regarding the rewards for your achievements, Pacification Commissioner Jia?"
The ministers set aside their brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones, fixing their eyes on Jia Huan.
For the Great Qian Court, this choice was especially important.
From ancient times to the present, military achievements had always merited rewards.
If he relinquished the title of duke, an announcement would be issued: it was not the court that had neglected a meritorious servant, but he who had cast the reward aside like a worn-out shoe.
If he resigned his post outright, the Embroidered Uniform Guard would lose a forceful, domineering Pacification Commissioner, its balance of power would change dramatically, and Great Qian's nobility would gain a nineteen-year-old duke.
Yet no one expected this.
A single statement split stone and shook the heavens.
Jia Huan said softly:
"I want the official post, and I want the noble title too."
The atmosphere froze in an instant.
The grand secretaries knitted their brows. This was sheer fantasy. The previous court deliberation had settled the matter: he could choose only one!
"What do you mean?" Chief Grand Secretary Yang's expression grew stern.
Jia Huan bowed with