Prince Liang regained his composure and stared at his laughing third brother, pursing his lips; he didn't find anything amusing and was unwilling to accept the situation.
Zhang Yang stared blankly at the Crown Prince's seat. Without the emperor, the Crown Prince held the highest authority and the place before the Dragon Throne indeed made hearts grow fervent.
Zhou Shuren listened to Prince Chu's laughter, feeling inexplicably sour inside; Prince Chu's laughter was filled with sorrow.
The Crown Prince was the calmest. He had always assisted the emperor in handling state affairs, previously only within the government hall; this time, he stood in the royal court, which was the last test his father had set for him.
The morning assembly concluded, and the ministers gathered in small groups, many chatting in a light-hearted tone; the Crown Prince's position was secure, and the kingdom stable, making everything clear and bright, naturally putting everyone at ease.
