"Wait!" Just as Eunuch Zhao was about to step over the threshold, the Emperor suddenly called him back.
Eunuch Zhao hurried back and stood with his hands lowered, awaiting orders. The Emperor's face was dark and gloomy. After pondering for a long while, he said coldly, "Go relay My verbal decree. First, go to Prince Dai's Residence and ask Prince Dai why, having accepted My assignment, he has not dealt with it swiftly. Also, have Luo Pei assume his post at once. There must be no further delay!"
"Yes! This old servant will see to it at once!" Eunuch Zhao replied, bending at the waist.
The Emperor's face was as dark as water. Having spoken, he turned around and stood with his hands behind his back, staring blankly at the candlelight.
Seeing that the Emperor had nothing more to say, Eunuch Zhao slowly backed away. Only after leaving the great hall did he turn and stride out. After wiping away his sweat, he changed attendants and made some inquiries before heading toward the Empress's quarters.
"Grandpa Zhao, are you still going to the Empress's quarters at such a late hour?" Seeing a faint drizzle, a quick-witted young eunuch stepped forward to help him put on a straw rain cape, asking cautiously at the same time.
Eunuch Zhao shot him a cold glance. "In the palace, if you want to live longer, learn when to keep your mouth shut."
"Yes, yes! This lowly one has been taught!" The young eunuch's face changed in fright, and he hurriedly replied.
Once Eunuch Zhao had gone far away, the young eunuch broke into a run. It was deep in the night, with dew settling thickly. The palace buildings twisted and sprawled in every direction, roads everywhere; after turning several bends, one's eyes would already