Every official in Luoyang knew that before Jia Lingyun left the city, he had handed command of the Imperial Guard and the Nine Gates Garrison to Lan Deyong.
Lan Deyong's status had risen accordingly. Although his rank was low and he was not qualified to participate in court deliberations, he held real military power in his hands. Thus, even the senior statesmen of the court would greet him with a respectful "General Lan."
The Imperial Guard, clad in armor and bearing blades, approached with the rhythmic clinking of equipment. Lan Deyong led the way, stepping directly past Fa Yun to bow toward the Empress Dowager and the Emperor.
Chapter 453