Duan Yanxing had never seen the Marquis of Dai before, yet as he watched the young man in the ceremonial robes of a state marquis, his crown hanging with five beams, approach from afar, Duan Yanxing was struck speechless for an instant.
"The Marquis of Dai truly bears the bearing of a king."
It was not just him. Whether they had seen the Marquis of Dai before or not, all who watched him approach wore expressions of astonishment.
This was the Marquis of Dai!
This was the Crown Prince's son!
Worthy indeed of being an imperial grandson—his bearing far surpassed that of the princes!
Had they not been about to enter the hall, and had this not been a time when they could not whisper among themselves, the officials who knew one another would likely have been unable to restrain themselves from sighing in admiration to their close colleagues.
"My Lord Marquis, this way, please." Duan Yanxing steadied himself, came down from the entrance of the grand hall to greet him, and led Su Ziji inside.
As this was Su Ziji's first time here, he did not know where he ought to stand and needed Duan Yanxing to guide him. Duan Yanxing led him directly to the place of honor, below the princes.
Many officials entered the hall and took their places in order of rank, yet they could not help stealing glances at Su Ziji in front.
"His Majesty arrives—"
The doors of the Western Pavilion flew open. With three sharp cracks of the ceremonial whip, drums were struck and chimes rang out; bells and zithers resounded as the music swelled, and the Emperor slowly made his way toward the throne.
A faint smile rested on the Emperor's face. He stood before the throne for a moment before seating