"Since when did he-?" The crown prince was utterly shocked, he could not believe that his father as the emperor would break the rule and smoke such prohibited item.
He took a deep breath, and relaxed himself, as the crown prince he had learned to prioritize the matters, for him, looking for his brother was the most important thing.
The crown prince turned to Eunuch Lu and asked, "What did my brother said when he came here the last time?" Perhaps, Zhao Ming had learned of the emperor's indulgence and thus rebelliously ran away.
Eunuch Lu was loyal to the emperor, he found his life hanging when the crown prince questioned. His ultimate master was drowsy due to the addictive substance and he had nobody to protect him.
"Speak or I will have to rip your jaw apart," The crown prince threathened. No response came from the eunuch, he had sealed his mouth, pledging the loyalty to his master. He could not betray him for his son.