Yu Huatian!
No one had expected Yu Huatian to return just as they were speaking of him.
Even Cao Zhengchun froze briefly.
Coming to his senses, he hurried forward and bowed. "This old servant pays his respects to the Director!"
"Master Yu!" The Little Emperor, Zhu Ciyu, also rose and called out.
He had not met Yu Huatian many times.
But from the day he became Crown Prince, his mother had always taught him that everything he had came from Yu Huatian, and that he must respect him.
After Yu Huatian carried him in his arms to ascend the throne, Cao Zhengchun, Tan Luzi, and the others had constantly told him legendary tales of how Yu Huatian subdued Wulin and strengthened Ming, instilling in him the need to be grateful to and respectful of Yu Huatian.
Thus, in his young heart, Yu Huatian had long since become someone he revered and admired immensely.
"Your subject, Yu Huatian, pays his respects to Your Majesty and Your Majesty the Empress Dowager!"
Ignoring the fawning officials beside him, Yu Huatian walked straight forward, bent slightly, and saluted Zhu Ciyu and Su Huirong with clasped hands.
"Rise, Master Yu!"
Zhu Ciyu spoke in a clear, youthful voice.
Su Huirong came to her senses, concealed the joy in her heart, and said softly, "Rise, Lord Yu."
Yu Huatian straightened, his expression solemn. "Your Majesty, how stands the war in the north?"
Concerned about Ming's situation, he had flown straight to the Imperial Palace after returning from the southeastern border. What little he knew of Ming's current circumstances had come from the border garrison.
Seeing Kyoto unharmed, he felt slightly relieved.
Hai Rui stepped forward and clasped his hands. "Lord Yu, you have returned at just the right time. The situation is far from optimistic!"
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