The Pill King's Residence stood on Zheng'an Street, adjacent to the imperial city and not far from Buzheng Street.
Xie Jinhuan rode through the streets. By the time he reached the imposing, magnificent Prince's Manor, night had deepened, and only a few patrolling constables could be seen outside.
Linghu Qingmo had practically grown up alongside Commandery Princess Changning, and everyone in the residence knew him. When he arrived outside, the black-armored Military Soldiers guarding the entrance hurried forward.
"Lord Linghu, when did you arrive in the Capital City?"
"Just now."
Linghu Qingmo dismounted outside the gates and introduced him.
"This is Lord Xie Jinhuan, the newly appointed halberd bearer of the Commandery Princess's Manor."
The two Military Soldiers had already heard the rumors about Xie Jinhuan and hurriedly bowed in fearful reverence.
"Our respects, Lord Xie!"
"You're too kind. I've only just arrived; there's no need for such ceremony."
Xie Jinhuan cupped his hands in return and followed Momo up the steps, asking,
"Has His Highness the heir retired?"
"Er..."
The Military Soldier leading them looked rather awkward, apparently wanting to announce them first.
Linghu Qingmo had also come with the task of monitoring the heir's activities for his close friend. He walked straight ahead.
"No need to announce us. Take us straight to him."
The Military Soldier dared say nothing more and hurried to lead the way.
With Coal Ball on his shoulder, Xie Jinhuan followed Momo through courtyards and corridors alongside Yang Dabiao and the others, soon arriving beside West Residence Lake.
At midnight, moonlight shrouded the lakeside garden.
Looking up, Xie Jinhuan saw a black-robed man standing on the grass, one hand behind his back and a strip of cloth over his eyes, listening for every rustle of wind and grass around him.
The man strongly resembled