Evening fell.
Jia Huan returned to his courtyard, his mind at peace.
After all his desperate efforts, he had finally won recognition from the upper ranks of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.
Even under pressure from the Grand Secretariat, they had merely suspended him to reflect on his conduct. In truth, it was protection in disguise.
Once the chain of evidence was complete and Gu Sihui was arrested, he would not only regain his post but earn a promotion for his achievements.
"Huan!"
Jia She arrived first, personally carrying a basket of fruit.
He stroked his long beard, studied Jia Huan for a while, and said frankly:
"The Jia Family and the Duke of Xiu's Mansion have been friends for generations. Old Master Hou was furious and threatened to sever ties, so I signed the joint memorial to soothe the Hou family's resentment. You won't blame your uncle, will you?"
Jia Huan remained composed and instead replied with a smile:
"As long as you don't blame me."
"What do you mean?" Jia She looked puzzled, then smiled.
"Ultimately, this is your private affair. Whether it brings fortune or disaster has nothing to do with Rongguo Mansion. Why would your uncle blame you?"
With that, he offered the fruit basket.
"We have plenty at home." Jia Huan did not move.
Seeing that his gesture had been rebuffed, Jia She swept his sleeve and left.
Meanwhile, Jia Baoyu wore a gold browband and a constable's uniform. Behind him, Mingyan and Zhou Rui both wore dark gray uniforms, each bearing a large character for "yamen" at the center.
"Mingyan, one of these days I'll buy you a yamen runner's post. With a punishment staff in hand, you'll cut quite a dashing, imposing figure."
"Zhou Rui, you can become a jailer. It'll be a little