Meanwhile, in the Eastern Palace, at the Hall of Literary Splendor.
The "Heir Apparent of King Wen" chapter of the Book of Rites said, "Whenever the heir apparent and the scholars are taught, it must be at the proper time."
It also said, "The Record of the Heir Apparent says: morning and evening, he goes outside the gates of the great sleeping chamber and asks the inner attendant, 'How is His Majesty's health today?'"
The Crown Prince served as Regent to learn the art of governance.
While the emperor was on the throne, every matter was decided by him. Now that the emperor was unwell, the Crown Prince sat alone in the Hall of Literary Splendor.
Memorials piled upon his desk, the Vermilion Brush in his hand, he finally understood that the single word "decide" weighed as much as thirty thousand pounds.
"Bao De."
"Your Highness."
"Go summon Zi'an." Gazing at the stack of memorials on his desk, the Crown Prince slowly furrowed his brows.
"Tell him I have a matter here that I wish to discuss with him."
"Yes." Bao De answered and withdrew.
When Wei Nisheng entered the hall, he saw the Crown Prince holding a memorial in one hand while writing and sketching on a stack of papers with the other.
He first straightened his robes and cap, adjusted his sleeves, then hurried several steps into the hall. Facing the Crown Prince, he raised his hands in salute and bowed deeply to the ground.
"Your servant, Wei Nisheng, Junior Director of Palace Affairs of the Director of Palace Affairs Office and Vice Director of the Selection Bureau under the Ministry of Personnel, pays his respects to Your Highness."
The bow affirmed the distinction between ruler and subject. The Crown Prince also rose and made a