The ranks of civil and military officials stood in clear lines, and at that moment, silence befell the Hall of Supreme Harmony, with only the undulating and gentle voice echoing within.
As the reverberating sound faded away, one could hear a pin drop in the great hall.
However, more than reverence, behind this silence in the hall was actually astonishment and confusion.
His Majesty had not attended court for over a decade, and during these years, the court was turbulent, with fierce struggles ensuing.
The high-ranking officials of the five offices and six ministries, as well as the nobles and royal in-laws, had all experienced ups and downs. Apart from the few constant presences in court, many officials had not even seen the Emperor's face.
Why was he suddenly holding court now?
But as curious as they were, the officials who were qualified to discuss matters in the hall were basically those who had mastered the skill of political savvy to the fullest.