My duty and my love were the same

Celestial Harmony Palace

As the golden rays of the morning sun filtered through the grand Hall of Celestial Harmony Palace, Emperor Xu Tianguan sat upon the Dragon Throne, his sharp gaze sweeping across the court officials gathered before him. The court was abuzz with murmurs, whispers of political schemes and external threats filling the vast hall.

Chief Eunuch Xiang Bohan stood by the Emperor's side, his expression neutral yet alert. The Grand Chancellor, ministers, and military generals all stood in neat rows, waiting for the Emperor's decree.

"Report," the Emperor commanded, his voice deep and authoritative.

Prime Minister Feng Wehao stepped forward first. "Your Majesty, the situation in the south has been resolved. The flood relief has been sent, and the citizens are recovering well."

The Emperor nodded. "Good. And what of the unrest in the northern borders?"