Jinluan Palace

The following day, in the capital city, within the halls of Jinluan Palace, the morning court commenced.

"Those with matters to report, step forth; those without, withdraw!" Eunuch Sun's sharp voice echoed throughout the grand hall of Jinluan Palace.

Beneath the towering hall, the assembled ministers exchanged meaningful glances, yet none uttered a word.

In truth, they were all well aware of the unusual decision of Emperor Tianqi, who seldom attended court sessions. There was certainly a matter of significance at hand.

Recent whispers had reached their ears, alleging the confinement of the daring Shen Hou, Zhu Wushi, by the Eastern Depot.

Word had it that Cao Zhengchun, accompanied by his retinue, had made a menacing visit to Dragon Heights.

"I, Fu Tiecheng, Grand Academician of the Wenhua Hall, have a matter to present," declared a solemn, middle-aged man, holding aloft a jade tablet as he stepped forward.