Seeing Cao Xiangqian's unyielding expression, the crowd scoffed once and stopped paying him any mind. Instead, they turned to several other officials who looked just as baffled to ask for news.
Zhou Shixiong clasped his hands and greeted Cao Xiangqian from a distance.
Just as everyone was asking each other for information, Le San's shrill voice rang out, "The Holy Emperor is holding court— Kneel—"
Hua Shunming sat high on the Dragon Throne, seemingly oblivious to the officials' expressions. He bid them rise, then said lightly, "Present your memorials if you have them, or the court is dismissed."
All eyes turned to Cao Xiangqian. 'Surely he'll step forward now,' they thought. But to their surprise, he didn't move a muscle.
A glint of amusement flashed in Hua Shunming's eyes as he gestured to Le San, who stood at his side.
Le San took a step forward, about to announce the dismissal of the court, when Xu Zhiwen stepped out. "Your servant has a memorial to present."
