Prince Ning's mad display shocked the entire hall.
He called the emperor by name, his hair disheveled and clothes torn, pointing at the throne as he cursed him as a "tyrant without kin or subjects."
Since the founding of Great Zhou, nothing like this had ever happened in the Hall of Supreme Harmony.
The officials blanched in horror or lowered their heads in silence. Not one dared step forward to refute him.
Having heard his crimes proclaimed, Prince Ning panted heavily, still intent on continuing his tirade.
But guards filed in from outside, seized him, gagged him, and dragged him out in utter disgrace.
Throughout it all, Emperor Jing of Zhou said not another word. He rose, flicked his sleeves, and dismissed court.
The officials dared say nothing and could only bow him out.
After court ended, Wei Nisheng stood beside a pillar outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony for two hours, as though everyone had forgotten him.
Only when the sunlight moved from the threshold to the Vermilion Steps did a familiar voice sound beside him.
"Young Master Wei, His Majesty summons you."
Wei Nisheng raised his head.
Wang Cheng stood before him in the same purple silk robe, smiling.
"Eunuch Wang."
"Come along. Let's not keep His Majesty waiting."
Wei Nisheng asked no questions. Instead, he straightened his clothes, made sure he looked presentable, and nodded.
"Sorry for the trouble, Eunuch Wang. Please lead the way."
Wang Cheng noticed this but showed nothing on his face. He merely turned and walked ahead.
One behind the other, they passed along the lengthy palace paths and around several galleries before reaching the Imperial Study.
"Young Master Wei, His Majesty is waiting inside."
Wang Cheng stopped and stepped aside, saying quietly, "I won't be going in."
Wei Nisheng glanced at