Two days later, upon entering the morning court, Zhou Shuren felt the scrutinizing gazes. He remained unperturbed; he had grown accustomed to them over the past few days. As long as he remained as immovable as a mountain, he cared little for their probing.
This unshakeable demeanor, however, faltered somewhat at the Ministry of Revenue when Zhou Shuren encountered the young Crown Prince.
The Retired Emperor beckoned, "You're back."
Zhou Shuren, "..."
Was there something off with that tone? And had the Retired Emperor brought someone he shouldn't have?
The young Crown Prince's eyes were sparkling as he greeted, "Minister Zhou."
Zhou Shuren kept a straight face. He had been wondering why he hadn't seen the Crown Prince, who usually showed up like clockwork, only to find the Prince at the Ministry of Revenue to his shock and surprise.
After paying his respects, Zhou Shuren returned to his seat.
