While Pei Changtian stood stunned, the civil and military officials of the Capital City lined up in the Golden Hall of the Imperial Palace for the court session held on the fifteenth.
It could not compare with a Grand Court Assembly, but officials of sufficient rank from the capital's various departments still attended. Naturally, Chu Hang, foremost among all officials, stood at the head of their ranks.
Many of Chu Hang's protégés felt heartened to see him arrive, though some looked worried. Numerous other officials also turned their eyes toward the old chancellor.
Chu Hang paid no heed to any of it, merely smiling and returning the greetings of those who approached to pay their respects.
"His Majesty arrives!"
A eunuch's voice rang out from above. The reigning emperor of Great Yong strode forward, and as he reached the dragon throne, Chu Hang joined the assembled ministers in calling out.
"We respectfully welcome Your Majesty!"
Dressed in dragon robes and wearing a black gauze crown with upturned wings, the emperor looked first at Chu Hang.
"My dear ministers, rise!"
Having said this, the emperor immediately expressed his concern.
"Chancellor Chu has been unwell of late, and you have often been on my mind. Since you have come to court today, I trust you have recovered?"
Chu Hang faced the emperor and bowed once more.
"Your Majesty, this old minister has recovered. Thank you for your concern!"
The emperor nodded and looked down at the assembled officials.
"At today's regular court session, do any of you have important matters to report?"
As the emperor finished speaking, Investigating Censor Yu Ziye raised his head, then instinctively glanced toward Chu Hang.
Seemingly noticing this, Chu Hang cast a glance at the investigating censor. Among the officials from the Censorate, the position of Deputy