On March 15, the night banquet at the Hall of Supreme Harmony came back to life after the flames subsided. The Emperor looked down at Lu Jingyuan with approval in his eyes and suddenly spoke, "Lu Aiqing has rendered meritorious service in protecting the Emperor and has repeatedly made outstanding achievements in border defense. I have decided to promote you to General Zhenwei, with overall command of the Capital's garrison."
An uproar rose inside the hall. Lu Jingyuan knelt on one knee, his voice steady, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your boundless grace! Your minister will surely give his utmost loyalty and live up to the sacred trust."
Jiang Wan looked at his straight back, pride welling up in her heart. Yet she noticed Minister Wang, seated on the left, looking ashen as he whispered to Vice Minister Li, jealousy flashing in his eyes. She quietly clenched Lu Jingyuan's sleeve, whispering in a voice only the two of them could hear, "Watch out for those jealous people."
Chapter 160