The Emperor was escorted back to his resting chamber, and only then did Du Zheng come to his senses and request Chief Secretary Xie Changshen to calm the civil and military officials.
"Prime Minister Xie," Du Zheng said, "this matter absolutely cannot be leaked out, Prince Lu has not yet been caught, and this situation causes political instability, making Daqi's future uncertain."
Xie Changshen was already an aging veteran official, who had personally witnessed the founding of Daqi alongside the former Emperor. He had thought that Daqi would prosper thereafter, but never expected such a day would come.
Xie Changshen pondered this, his gaze deepening as he stared intently at Du Zheng: "Be honest with me, eunuch, is the Emperor's illness serious or not?"
Du Zheng showed a pained expression.
