The next day, at Yang Qing's residence.
"Eunuch Zhang? What brings you here today?"
Seeing Eunuch Zhang arrive without even having anyone announce him, Yang Qing's heart gave a jolt.
For some reason, a sense of foreboding rose within him.
Eunuch Zhang glanced around before stepping through the gates of the Yang Residence.
Once inside, his expression grew grave. "Lord Yang, His Majesty summons you."
"His Majesty summons me? Why so suddenly?"
Chu Jinghui had suddenly summoned him?
Yang Qing's puzzlement deepened. Apart from the audiences he had requested himself and that first private meeting, he had not seen Chu Jinghui for more than ten days.
Why today?
Judging by Eunuch Zhang's expression, something seemed out of the ordinary.
Eunuch Zhang sighed softly. "I cannot say why, but I keep feeling that His Majesty seems somewhat different from usual."
"I have served His Majesty for nearly twenty years, yet never have I seen him act as he does now, so impossible to fathom."
Yang Qing frowned as well. "Eunuch Zhang, what exactly has happened? Take your time and tell me."
Eunuch Zhang took a small breath before continuing. "A few days ago, I thought His Majesty was displeased with your handling of the Northern Liang delegation, and that his anger was why he refused to summon you for an admonishment."
"I know I failed to carry out my duties properly, and I have been intent on making amends. Could His Majesty have some other reason?"
A flicker of hesitation crossed Eunuch Zhang's face. "But last night, while reviewing memorials, His Majesty actually asked me about you, Lord Yang. He even... even said he did not remember refusing to see you."
"I fear His Majesty might..."
"Eunuch Zhang, some things must not be spoken carelessly. The consequences could be unimaginable."
Hearing