Within the palace walls, Zhou Shuren's sensation of entering the palace was different from before; the first time was a mix of excitement and nervousness, the second time he was much more composed, and the subsequent visits were met with indifference. Now, however, he felt the weight of his responsibilities—the Ministry of Revenue controlled the finances, and the duty was considerable!
Zhou Shuren looked at Xiao Qing, who walked ahead. At over sixty years old, Xiao Qing appeared older compared to other Chief of Staff officials, with the deepest wrinkles at the corners of his eyebrows.
They quickly reached the government hall, where Xiao Qing led Zhou Shuren into the grand hall and said, "We greet the Emperor."
Zhou Shuren followed suit, "We greet the Emperor."
The Emperor was in a good mood, "You may rise, my officials."
Xiao Qing stood up and took the account books, "Emperor, these are the treasury's account books for this month."
