Prince's Residence
The two foxes, who had been hiding from people and dared not come out, suddenly sprang up onto their hind legs.
"Squeak! It's a Golden Olive!"
"Squeak! I felt it too!"
This time, even Big Fox, who had been somewhat slow to react to Golden Olives, keenly sensed the spiritual energy soaring in an instant, along with the powerful temptation emanating from a nearby house.
"Squeak! Let's hurry over!"
Crying out, Little Fox took the lead and darted away.
Big Fox raced after her, thinking as he ran, I can feel the temptation this time too. Is it because I've eaten Golden Olives several times and formed a connection, or are there especially many olives this time?
The two foxes were incredibly fast. The rain had grown somewhat heavier, and servants, maids, and female attendants carried square tables and food boxes as they hurried back and forth beneath the corridors. Anyone not walking under the covered passageways had to open an oil-paper umbrella to keep from soaking their clothes.
Someone felt as if something had flashed past before their eyes. Startled, they asked, "Did something just go by?"
In the rainy black night, everything before them was hazy. After thinking it over, the others shook their heads. "No, right? Are your eyes playing tricks on you?"
That was possible.
The person added, "Forget it. Our prince has been invested as Prince Dai. Only a small number of guests came tonight; tomorrow's banquet is the real grand feast, and we'll have to receive at least a thousand people."
"Though Madam said all the banquet arrangements would be contracted out to the restaurants, there are still plenty of supporting and trivial matters. We need to prepare early. While the rain hasn't become too heavy, we should hurry and finish up."