At the same time, he quickly stepped outside the hall.

Nowadays, he is wholeheartedly serving Lin Yi.

Especially after Lin Yi restored his family name, he became utterly loyal to Lin Yi.

So much so that if Lin Yi were to say a word, and asked him to die, he would unhesitatingly run into a wall.

To him, Lin Yi is his benefactor, his heaven, his reborn parent.

Now, after receiving Lin Yi’s command, he immediately sprinted towards the painter.

Of course, let’s not talk about this little eunuch for now.

Let’s focus on what’s happening in the main hall at this moment.

As soon as Lin Yi uttered those words, the few old men kneeling on the ground were taken aback.

Not only them, but the other ministers also froze in place.

They couldn’t understand the meaning behind Lin Yi’s words.

He praised them, thanked them, those were understandable, but why call for a painter? What’s the point of calling a painter out of the blue?

Could it be that these individuals’ suggestions intrigued Lin Yi, or gave him a sudden insight about its use, so much so that he couldn’t restrain his excitement, and wanted the painter to draw him a portrait?

If that’s the case, the new emperor’s self-control seems to be lacking.

He might not achieve great things in the future.

However, they indeed felt an inexplicable uneasiness in their hearts.

Especially the six ministers and the two chancellors kneeling, who inexplicably felt a wave of anxiety.

Although they didn’t know what exactly was happening or what scene Lin Yi was playing, they just felt a sense of heaviness and anxiety in their hearts.

But despite this anxiety, Lin Yi’s words made them inexplicably happy.

In this atmosphere, Lin Yi said nothing; on the contrary, he closed his eyes, assuming a resting posture.

This left the old ministers kneeling on the ground exchanging puzzled glances with each other.

They wondered why Lin Yi wouldn’t let them stand up.

Was he planning to make them kneel on the ground the entire time?

They all understood one thing: they would probably not be allowed to stand up until the painter arrived.

Instantly, their expressions turned somewhat bitter.

In this situation, their hearts were filled with a thousand flavors; they truly couldn’t understand their own emotions.

In short, they’ve all realized one thing: the new king’s emotions are unpredictable. Whether it’s talking or making decisions, it’s beyond their imagination, or he doesn’t act according to their expectations.

This man is a thoroughgoing individualist.

Yet, considering his identity and his mysterious methods, they dared not utter a complaint or show any sign of dissent, maintaining their kneeling position.

It was not until after about half an hour, with Xiao Chen’s report, that they saw a glimmer of hope.

"Your Majesty, the painter has been brought to you," reported the servant.

At that moment, Lin Yi was resting on the seat above.

Last night, being hugged by that girl left him somewhat agitated, making it difficult for him to have a good sleep.

The night was indeed a challenging one for him.

Even though he had no intention of making any excessive moves on the girl, and knew where his limits were, he was, after all, a vigorous young man.

Having held such a fair maiden in his arms all night, it was impossible not to have any illicit thoughts.

If it weren’t for his strong will, matters might have escalated further.

Thus, having not slept well last night, Lin Yi now ended up actually falling asleep.

When he heard the voice, he opened his sleepy eyes, and seeing the group still kneeling before him, the corners of his mouth couldn’t help but curl upwards.

This was exactly the outcome he desired; these old guys were always opposing him, so it was time they received a proper lesson.

He was determined to make them suffer a bit and realize his power.

Of course, this was just a minor matter compared to the real issue at hand, which would soon bring them to tears.

Watching Xiao Chen and the large group of painters enter, Lin Yi’s smile widened with satisfaction.

It seemed Xiao Chen truly understood his intention by calling so many painters.

After the painters knelt and paid their respects to Lin Yi, he waved his hand, signaling everyone to stand. He then looked towards the kneeling ministers and chancellors and feigned a sudden realization, saying:

"Oh my, I fell asleep accidentally. Why are you still kneeling on the floor, my dear ministers? Hurry and rise."

Upon hearing this, the group almost had their noses turned askew in anger.

Inwardly, each couldn’t help but curse.

Is this even human talk?

What do you mean why are we still kneeling?

Isn’t this asking knowingly and rubbing salt into our wounds?

Who dared to stand before you spoke, risking reprimand and punishment? Ultimately, we’d be the ones to suffer.

Despite their inner complaints, they dared not display anything outwardly.

Since Lin Yi had already told them to stand, they immediately began to rise from the ground.

Yet, having kneeled for so long, they found it hard to rise, feeling their legs weak and numb.

It was only with the support from the surrounding ministers that they finally managed to stand shakily.

At this point, they silently blamed Lin Yi for their predicament, understanding fully this was the new king asserting his dominance.

But historically, it’s usual to face a stick and then receive a carrot. Presumably, the King would soon offer them seats, wouldn’t he?

[To be continued...]