The Eighth Prince ordered all the servants in his residence to go out and spread word that the dragon child would be parading through the streets.
Street processions were the most popular events in Great Chu. Those entitled to hold one were either fabulously wealthy or people of exalted status. Of course, this also included candidates in the imperial examinations over the years-anyone who placed in the top three had the right to parade through the streets.
Otherwise, the Government Office would arrest them and charge them with disturbing public order.
The sun gradually sank toward the horizon. The Eighth Prince's residence bustled with noise as everyone prepared what they needed for the procession. Some carried flower baskets, others carried sweets, with countless treats and amusements besides.
The women all wore exquisite makeup and beautiful dresses, their expressions shy.
The Eighth Prince looked them over, then clapped his hands. "In a moment, some of you will scatter flowers at the front, while the others toss sweets at the back."
The steward of the Eighth Prince's residence hesitated before finally steeling himself to speak. "Your Highness, might this seem insufficiently dignified?"
Shen Yangge, however, said, "If it's too dignified, they'll stay on their knees the whole time. I don't want the common people to be afraid even to look."
The steward smacked his forehead and apologized. "I failed to consider the matter fully. You're right, you're right."
He had never seen a dragon child so approachable and close to the people.
He had only read a little about them in legends and unofficial histories, and had assumed a dragon should be enshrined for everyone to worship.
Once everything was ready, Shen Yangge climbed into the carriage, which was open on all four sides and draped in sheer white gauze. Whenever the