The sky had gradually darkened. Fine rain fell thickly through the dusk as palace servants went about lighting the lamps.
The palace the Empress had chosen would, in summer, have been filled with lush flowering trees, scattered sunlight, and the chirping harmonies of birds. Yet now, it was full of drifting fallen leaves.
Still, unlike the silent courtyard, palace maids were fanning the stove beneath the eaves to brew tea, while female officials stood in attendance within the hall. Even Zhou Yao and Imperial Consort Dowager Wu were there, gathered around a painting on the table.
The painting was perfectly ordinary: alleys and narrow lanes, carriages, horses, and crowds in the street. A young girl held a flatbread, seeming to remind someone of something, while a young man held out his hand slightly to receive it.
"A young married couple's bond is always especially different." Imperial Consort Dowager Wu stared blankly at it. A thread of wind slipped through the window, making her shiver faintly, and she could not help secretly sighing in astonishment.
Then what was Xinping to do?
The young eunuch, however, did not understand its meaning and continued his introduction with great excitement.
"Your Majesty, look, this is Dream Seven-Colored Brocade presented as tribute by Huaping Commandery. His Majesty had it sent to you..."
"And it is said that there are islands in the south where spring lasts all year round, with fruit in every season, even lychees. His Majesty specially ordered the navy to offer them as tribute for Your Majesty's tasting."
The eunuchs carried the items in and laid them out in a row before Bu Hui.
The one responsible for introducing them to Bu Hui was a young eunuch who had recently risen in her service.
Though such young eunuchs looked youthful, they were