The sky was dark and heavy, as if harboring an imminent storm.
Shangjing was enveloped in an eerie undercurrent, the fierce wind tearing through the streets and lanes, scattering fallen branches and leaves. The windows rattled from the vibrations.
Someone's clothes, forgotten outside, were torn away by the wind, flung high into the air, and fiercely snagged on the old locust tree, looking from a distance like a ghost hanging in midair.
Gu Fuju, dressed in official robes with a jade belt lightly fastened at his waist, walked briskly with a deep, serene gaze as he was summoned into the Imperial Palace.
"Grand Tutor, you have finally arrived."
A young eunuch looked around and quickly approached to lead the way upon seeing him.
Gu Fuju kept walking without pause.
The young eunuch spoke at his side, "All the princes are present, as well as the Six Ministries and Nine Ministers. Oh, and Mr. Zhu from the Hanlin Academy."
Gu Fuju lowered his gaze, hiding his emotions.
