The following morning, at the break of dawn, Zhu Youji returned to his chambers, feeling sore and weary.
Collapsing onto the luxurious bed, he lamented, "Exhausted. Spent the entire night transporting lava."
"Rest, my friend. Rest first," came the comforting reply.
"Surely, the morning court session will be intriguing, but I can't be bothered to attend. Sleep first, then we'll see..."
Soon, Zhu Youji drifted into slumber.
Meanwhile, the court session commenced as scheduled.
Just as the sky began to lighten, the courtiers ascended the grand hall in an orderly fashion, taking their positions without chatter or whisper.
In fact, upon receiving notice the previous day, they were greatly surprised. When they attempted to seek an audience with the Emperor yesterday, they were obstructed by Cao Zhengchun.
Rumors spread among the courtiers of the Emperor's unconsciousness, and many believed it to be true, expecting no court session today.