“This cause does seem a bit ridiculous, but it’s unlikely to be false,” Xiao Jianren said, pointing at the scroll and continuing, “This is an independent investigation report issued by the Embroidered Envoy in Yan State. It matches what the local officials say as well.”

“How could a Golden Token Envoy just drown?” Zu An wondered. He still didn’t believe that result, let alone that it could happen to Golden Token Seven, whom he had met before.

“If it’s false, that means either the Embroidered Envoy system has been compromised, or the local authorities have colluded…” Halfway through his sentence, Xiao Jianren’s expression grew grave. He continued, “If that really is the truth, that is just too terrifying.”

As someone from the Embroidered Envoy system, he understood the Embroidered Envoy very well. Those who worked in their field didn’t need to have the greatest ability, but loyalty was number one. They were known to be the ones least likely to betray the empire. If all of the Embroidered...