Chapter 36
The Imperial Capital of Wu, Listening Heaven Hall.
Apart from the absence of the Emperor, all officials were quietly standing in their designated positions. From time to time, they cast glances at the tall and upright man standing at the forefront.
With his eyes closed and a ceremonial tablet in hand, the man stood motionless, resembling a pine tree rooted in the grand hall. This man was Xiao Mochi, a figure currently at the peak of his influence, admired by many yet also feared and attacked by countless officials.
“The Emperor has arrived—”
The sharp voice of a eunuch announced, as the Emperor of Wu, clad in his dragon robe, emerged.
“Your subjects greet Your Majesty,” the officials chorused, bowing respectfully.
In Wu Kingdom, officials never knelt to the emperor, their gestures of respect limited to formal bows.
“Rise, my beloved subjects,” the Emperor said, raising a hand in a gesture of acknowledgement.
“Thank you, Your Majesty,” the officials responded in unison, straightening their postures.