The dragon-saliva incense drifted from the gilded beast-headed censer in the Golden Throne Hall. As Lu Jingyuan stepped onto the imperial dais, a faint sheen of sweat had already gathered on his palms. Behind him stood a dozen or so men, including the Duke of Qi, Magistrate Chen, and Uncle Wang; the official performance reports they held glowed with a solemn reddish-brown hue in the morning light.
"Lord Lu," the Emperor leaned back against his dragon throne, his gaze sweeping over the group. "Why have you brought so many people into the hall today? What is the meaning of this?"
Lu Jingyuan bowed deeply until his head touched the floor, his voice clear and resonant. "Reporting to Your Majesty, I have come today to report on my official duties and to bring these witnesses to attest to my loyalty and my record of service."
Chapter 191