Xie Anjun's mind went blank. The blood in his veins seemed to freeze, and he couldn't move a muscle.
Emperor Muwu's words sounded casual, but Xie Anjun hadn't forgotten how he'd been "invited" to the palace!
And now, Emperor Muwu was saying he would personally conduct the interrogation—and had even suggested that he join him...
'He's clearly going to interrogate *me*!'
Xie Anjun's throat was dry. After a long moment, his face ashen, he managed to stammer, "...A-as... as Your Majesty commands..."
Emperor Muwu, however, seemed not to notice his state. His smile faded, and his tone grew cold and stern.
"Bring them in."
Eunuch Li bowed and complied.
Only then did Emperor Muwu look back at Xie Anjun and Xie Anbai. His gaze lingered on the two brothers for a moment before he said, "Both of you, rise. This is not a formal court assembly. There's no need for such ceremony."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
