Inside the Imperial Study.
The atmosphere was oppressively tense.
Zhu Di sat on the Dragon Throne, saying nothing.
He merely scrutinized his grandson, examining him over and over with an assessing, probing gaze.
It was as though he wanted to see through him from the inside out.
Zhu Zhanjun, however, appeared perfectly at ease. He even had the leisure to study the furnishings of the Imperial Study.
Grandfather's antiques and calligraphy are indeed much better than the ones in my residence. I'll sneak a few back another day.
"Zhanjun."
After a long while, Zhu Di finally spoke, his voice hoarse.
"You surprised me today."
"Your grandson merely did what he ought to do."
Zhu Zhanjun's answer left no opening to exploit.
"What you ought to do?"
Zhu Di let out a cold snort.
"Where did that Silver Armored Cavalry of yours come from? My spies are spread across the realm. Why have I never heard that Great Ming possessed such an elite force?"
He had voiced the greatest doubt in his heart.
That army known as the Great Snow Dragon Riders possessed such formidable combat strength and such superb equipment that it was simply unheard of.
Especially their fearless, death-defying conduct and their absolute obedience to orders—they hardly seemed like an army of the mortal world.
"Imperial Grandfather, this is my secret."
Zhu Zhanjun smiled.
"Everyone should have a Trump Card of their own, shouldn't they?"
He did not answer directly, instead tossing the question back at him.
Zhu Di was briefly left speechless, his brows drawing tightly together.
This grandson is becoming harder and harder to deal with.
"Fine. I can let that go."
Zhu Di changed the subject.
"Then where did those unbelievable methods of yours, and that... knowledge, come from?"
"Has Imperial Grandfather ever heard that there