Preliminaries Begin

The following day, in the inner city of the capital.

Within the residence of Zhu Youji, in the study.

"Your Highness, visitors have arrived," the servant bowed respectfully.

Zhu Youji, engrossed in his reading, didn't lift his head, inquiring, "Who are they?"

"Your Highness, they both wear bamboo hats, one tall and one small. It seems they are two women," the servant whispered.

"Two women?" Zhu Youji furrowed his brows slightly, recalling the women he knew. He spoke, "Let them in."

"Yes, Your Highness."

With a respectful bow, the servant slowly withdrew from the room.

Moments later, guided by the servant, two women arrived at Zhu Youji's study.

Through his spiritual senses, Zhu Youji had already discerned the identities of the two, though what intrigued him was the presence of one of them.

Before the servant could speak, Zhu Youji extended his hand, instructing, "You may leave."

"Yes." The servant quickly retreated and closed the door behind him.