Princess's Estate.
Inside the main hall, Lu Wu-bing and the young princess Ji Wenxiu sat on opposite sides. The officials arranged themselves in two rows and stepped forward to pay their respects.
Though it was not time for morning court, and no special summons had been issued,
these newly promoted civil and military officials had all arrived in full.
Every one of them stood solemnly.
Lu Wu-bing understood at once. Most of them had likely learned what had happened in the Hall of Mental Cultivation.
Those who could enter Lu Ping'an's notice through either reputation or personal ability, and be elevated by him,
could be said to include not a single incompetent fool occupying a lofty post.
Their families might have money to deliver to the door, but if they themselves were unfit, Lu Wu-bing would not approve of them.
If, even now, they were still kept in the dark and did not know that the emperor had already been deposed and imprisoned, then there was no need for them to remain officials.
Their coming now
was a good thing, whether they wished to declare their loyalty or sound out the prevailing wind.
It proved that they truly held [the affairs of the state] in their hearts.
"Since everyone has arrived so completely, this princess has something that must be said. I hope you will all listen clearly."
Ji Wenxiu wore a tranquil smile, her delicate brows curving slightly. She appeared to be in an excellent mood.
It was not an act, but a quiet ease and comfort born from the depths of her heart.
After the battle at the Hall of Mental Cultivation, though she had not been present, she had still heard how [absurd] that imperial father of hers had been, and how wretched his end had been.