The autumn wind sighed bleakly, sending fallen leaves swirling.
Jia Huan left early and returned late, arresting criminals for several days running. Most had eighth- or ninth-rank sin values, so his experience points rose slowly. As for merit, there was hardly any to speak of. A dignified Hundred-Household Commander with three silk threads dealing with such rotten fish and shrimp could only claim credit for his toil.
Returning home after leaving the office that evening, he had just entered Rongguo Mansion's side gate when he spotted a handsome youth with a fair face and crimson lips beside the street. It was Qin Zhong.
"Lord Jia!"
Qin Zhong hurried over with small steps and said timidly:
"My family has prepared a banquet to express our gratitude. Do you have time now?"
Jia Huan had nearly forgotten about it. "It was no trouble at all. There's no need to stand on ceremony."
Qin Zhong looked disappointed and said softly:
"I've called more than a dozen times before finally meeting you, my lord. Please honor us with your presence. Had you not intervened to save them, my two dear friends would still be mired in that swamp, suffering torment day and night."
Jia Huan regarded him, then smiled and nodded.
"Such warm hospitality is hard to refuse. Let's go."
"This way!" Qin Zhong smiled brightly and invited Lord Jia into the carriage.
Qin Mansion.
"Quickly, ask Father to welcome our guest."
Qin Zhong climbed out of the carriage and hurriedly called to a servant.
He understood etiquette well. His father was only a sixth-rank official, and although Lord Jia was also sixth rank, the Embroidered Uniform Guard stood one rank above other officials.
A moment later, a lean-faced old man with graying temples hurried out and bowed with clasped hands.
"Lord Jia,