The grand hall was solemn.
It was Chen Ye's first time seeing Shenwu Emperor Yang Yuanchu. He could not help feeling curious and secretly took a few extra looks.
Fortunately, during yesterday's feast with Cui Xijun, he had already heard her explain in detail the many rituals and rules of the imperial court.
At this moment, he dared not be the slightest bit negligent. He immediately stepped forward, knelt, and bowed properly, then said in a clear voice, "This subject, Marquis of Fei and Tiger-Awe General Chen Ye, pays his respects to Your Majesty! May Your Majesty enjoy boundless longevity!"
His steady voice echoed through the vast grand hall.
Shenwu Emperor Yang Yuanchu sat upright on the dragon throne and cast his gaze downward, curiously studying the young man kneeling before him.
He saw that Chen Ye's movements were unfamiliar, yet his bearing was composed. He showed none of the constraint or panic that Aristocratic Clan scions usually displayed upon first seeing the emperor's countenance. His opinion of Chen Ye consequently rose another two points.
"Rise."
There was an imposing authority in Shenwu Emperor's words, the majesty of one who had occupied the heights of power for many years. It made one's heart tremble involuntarily.
Chen Ye rose as instructed and thanked him for the imperial grace.
He kept his eyes straight ahead and waited respectfully for Yang Yuanchu's questions.
Shenwu Emperor studied him for a moment before asking, "Chen Ye, I hear you are from the Chen Family of Qinghe Prefecture. Who else is in your family? Did your ancestors ever hold any official honors?"
Chen Ye pondered briefly, recalling the scattered fragments of his predecessor's memories, then answered truthfully, "Your Majesty, my family has farmed in Qinghe for generations. My parents died when I was young, and my