The diplomatic mission abroad, with an extended stay overseas, includes five officials, and several supporting personnel; having five officials alone is quite a number.
Ministers who had speculated thought only one or two representatives would be necessary, but now it seems it's not that simple. The ministers look at each other, and many plan to watch and wait for developments.
The Emperor's intention is for the Ministry of Rites to send two officials; the remaining three may apply on their own.
Zhou Shuren thinks to himself, Chang Yi from the Ministry of Rites will be one, but as for the other, he has no idea. Yuguang sweeps the room with his gaze and locks eyes with the Minister of Rites; a mutual understanding is confirmed with that look.
After the court session ends, ministers are standing around in small clusters. Zhou Shuren and the Minister of Rites walk together.
The Minister of Rites whispers, "The Emperor revealed to me that you were aware of the mission in advance."
