Night fell quietly. A crescent moon hung in the sky, shining alongside the palace lanterns beneath the eaves. Halls rose one behind another under the heavy evening haze, lending the scene a peculiar chill.
"Your Majesty!" Xinping looked radiant, her hair piled like clouds and mist. Her dark brows knitted slightly, revealing a trace of wistful grievance as she draped a cloak over Su Ziji.
Su Ziji patted her hand. Once he stepped outside, the eunuch Tu Cheng came forward and bowed. "Your Majesty, the Palace Key Office has made the arrangements."
"The summons for Lord Lu has also been sent."
Su Ziji stood on the steps and nodded without speaking.
The palace security system was, in essence, a system of access control: strict regulations governed duty stations, staffing, responsible personnel, assigned duties, and hours, with guards taking turns inspecting the palace gates and the Imperial City day and night.
Princes and ministers entered through different palace gates according to their rank and could proceed only as far as the permitted areas. Even the articles they wore were subject to restrictions, and everyone passing through had to register their name, office, superior, and other details for the records.
Palace eunuchs, craftsmen, and menial workers entered and left using waist tokens issued by the relevant authorities.
Once the gates were locked, they could not be opened without a special imperial decree, and the matter had to be reported in a formal memorial or entered into the records the following day.
Even the emperor had to follow procedure.
Before long, the imperial conveyance arrived, indicating that everything had been arranged. Su Ziji climbed aboard without a word and waved a hand. Tu Cheng called out, "His Majesty departs!"
When the emperor's carriage reached the palace gates, Lu Fengyun greeted him.
"No need