The evening lanterns had just been lit when he left the office and returned home.
As soon as he entered the courtyard, Jia Huan set down his basket and went to the eastern attic.
In the medicine room, An Xuan'er and her master were sorting rare medicinal ingredients. As gifted heirs of Medicine King Valley, they often prepared secret beauty remedies for the women of the household.
The women's skin was snowy white, so delicate it seemed a breath or a touch could break it.
"Lord Jia." The voluptuous, beautiful He Weirui rose gracefully and greeted Jia Huan.
She lived very well in the Jia household. Not only could she stay with her beloved disciple, but she also had her pick of divine martial arts, while her food, clothing, and daily comforts were the finest in the world.
Jia Huan smiled and nodded, then looked at An Xuan'er.
"Come with me to the secret chamber."
They went to the rear courtyard together, crossed the high wall, and reached the abandoned storeroom.
When they opened the secret chamber, Crane Daoist of Misty Rain Tower was reading an ancient book by candlelight.
"Greetings, Lord Jia!" He respectfully cupped his fists.
After returning the greeting, Jia Huan went straight to the point.
"I'm leaving the capital. If the household encounters danger, please do everything in your power to help, senior."
The possibility was close to nonexistent. He held immense power, and until he fell from grace, those in the Golden Throne Hall would not dare touch his family.
Still, it never hurt to prepare for the worst.
"Understood." Crane Daoist agreed without hesitation.
Jia Huan offered another couple of reminders, then left with Xuan'er.
An Xuan'er lightly pressed her lips together. Unable to hide her curiosity, she asked softly:
"When I saw Thousand-Household