Long Xuanjiao finally managed to calm the turmoil in her heart. Ever since the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, when Hu Buwei had smashed the Crystal Skull before her eyes, the wounds within her had refused to close. Like that shattered skull, those cracks might never heal. She could no longer control her unease and fear. A ruler unable to hold on to her power, a woman unable to hold on to her man-what kind of anguish was that? Long Xuanjiao said, "Have you ever considered that he's already changed?" The words sounded more like she was speaking to herself.
Long Xiyue sat back beneath the candle stand and continued embroidering by its light. "Everyone changes," she said softly. "I'm not afraid of him changing, because his feelings for me never will!"
Long Xuanjiao felt as though someone had plunged a knife deep into her heart again. She did not know how Long Xiyue could speak with such confidence. She had wanted to accuse her of deceiving herself, but the happiness that flashed in Long Xiyue's eyes told her she was not lying. Thinking of herself, Long Xuanjiao realized for the first time that waiting could also be a kind of happiness.
Tomorrow was the Double Ninth Festival, and also the day of the final selection of the prince consort. All of Fragrant City brimmed with joy and festive cheer. Gongs and drums thundered through the streets and alleys as the people began celebrating of their own accord a day early. Today was merely a warm-up. Once the prince consort was chosen, the official festivities would begin in earnest. According to news from the Court of State Ceremonial, the celebrations would last three days.
After the list was released, the hundred candidates who had made the final cut also began