Xie Jiayan showed no panic when his identity was revealed. Instead, he unhurriedly removed the mask from his face. "I am Xie Jiayan, and I am indeed not from the Duke's mansion. Before the heir left the capital, he entrusted me to look after the mansion, which is why I dared to intrude. I beg the sect leader's forgiveness."
By removing his mask and revealing his identity, Xie Jiayan also demonstrated his sincerity. m..oΓg
In fact, even if he hadn't done so, the Li Jing Sect would have been able to discover his identity.
Sixth Lady did not conceal her identity, likely intentionally leaving a vulnerability for the Li Jing Sect to exploit.
Her father and brother had military achievements. A Duke's mansion with no vulnerabilities would make the Emperor uneasy.
Furthermore, the Li Jing Sect had exposed their stronghold because of a mere servant, which was a loss that didn't bring much honor.
The sect leader would also have to carefully consider how to report this to the Emperor.
"It seems Scholar Xie and the Duke's mansion have a good relationship. Since that is the case, I will grant Scholar Xie some face today. However, I will not return the items that young lady sent," the Ghost Mask Sect Leader said, no longer needing to pretend now that they knew each other's affiliations.
The Ghost Mask Sect Leader waved his hand, signaling for the person to be brought over.
"Thank you, Sect Leader," Xie Jiayan said, cupping his hands in thanks.
"However, I am curious about one thing. Since Scholar Xie has the iron mine map, why didn't you personally give it to the Emperor, but instead chose to give it to me?" This young man was quite astute.
"It is merely a matter of fulfilling one's duties. Sect Leader, you should know that I am just a Hanlin scholar, occasionally drafting documents for the Emperor. I do what I should, and I do not touch what I shouldn't. The iron mine from the previous dynasty is merely a folk rumor. In truth, I am not even sure if this iron mine is from the previous dynasty. The iron mine is located in Hexi. I stumbled upon it years ago during my travels. Even if I didn't tell you, Sect Leader, it would likely be discovered in a few years' time," Xie Jiayan explained methodically.
The Ghost Mask Sect Leader's expression changed several times. Whether it was from the previous dynasty was no longer important. What mattered was that he could report to the Emperor.
"Scholar Xie, to be so insightful at such a young age is truly rare," the Ghost Mask Sect Leader said with a meaningful smile.
"It's simply a matter of mutual benefit. I will not obstruct your path to merit, and I hope you will not implicate others," Xie Jiayan stated.
The Ghost Mask Sect Leader let out a cold laugh. "If I told you who was pursuing that servant, you would understand how audacious he is."
Fortunately, he was brought back by the Li Jing Sect. Otherwise, his life would have been lost long ago.
Hearing this, Xie Jiayan knew the matter was serious. The Li Jing Sect was not one to act without benefit, and they wouldn't have saved someone out of sheer kindness. They likely had information they wanted to obtain.
Their agreement to release the person probably meant they hadn't gotten the information they desired. This Li Fu was truly worthy of Sixth Lady's strenuous efforts to save him.
"Sect Leader, please rest assured. I will discipline him properly upon our return." At this moment, he was under their roof and had to comply with their wishes.
Li Fu's face was pale when he was brought in. He had no visible external injuries, but Xie Jiayan knew he must have been tortured.
Li Fu clearly paused for a moment when he saw Xie Jiayan, but quickly regained his composure. He didn't know why Xie Jiayan was there, but it was best to pretend not to know him.
Xie Jiayan hadn't paid much attention to Li Fu before, but today he was quite surprised. His caution explained why Sixth Lady valued him so highly.
"Your lady sent me to rescue you," Xie Jiayan said, stepping forward to support his arm.
He was injured and had been brought in by two people, unable to stand steadily.
"This humble one thanks you, sir," Li Fu finally dared to respond.
"Today, you were fortunate to be saved by the Li Jing Sect. Hurry and thank the Sect Leader, and be more careful in your actions from now on," Xie Jiayan advised.