At that moment, an eunuch Xu Tianchen did not recognize stood outside the Imperial Study. As he looked at Xu Tianchen, a trace of resentment flashed through his eyes, but it was extremely well concealed. Neither Xu Tianchen nor Chief Steward Zhao noticed it.
"Greetings, Purple Radiance King. Greetings, Chief Steward."
The eunuch bowed to Xu Tianchen and Chief Steward Zhao as they approached.
"Who are you?"
Xu Tianchen looked at the eunuch before him. He had no impression of this person whatsoever.
"Your Highness, this is Guo Deputy Chief Steward. He is my deputy."
Before Guo Deputy Chief Steward could speak, Chief Steward Zhao introduced him first.
Xu Tianchen nodded, then headed into the Imperial Study. As he passed Guo, he gave his shoulder two pats.
"Has anything happened in the palace these past few days?"
After watching Xu Tianchen enter the Imperial Study and close the doors behind him, Chief Steward Zhao spoke to Guo Deputy Chief Steward beside him.
"No. Everything has been normal."
Guo Deputy Chief Steward answered without a moment's thought. Chief Steward Zhao nodded after hearing this, signaling for him to leave first.
Guo Deputy Chief Steward bowed and departed. Chief Steward Zhao watched his retreating back and fell into thought.
"Greetings, Father Emperor."
Xu Tianchen noticed that every time he came to the Imperial Study, Xu Chengjing was diligently reviewing memorials there.
"Mm, you're here. Sit. Tell me about what happened this time."
Following Xu Chengjing's words, Xu Tianchen sat down without ceremony and recounted everything that had happened on the journey—from arresting Zhao Yushan, to clashing with Xuan Zi and the others, to finally returning to Mingdu. He told him everything along the way, and also mentioned why he had thought to investigate Zhao Yushan in the first place.
Xu Chengjing's expression