The day after Tan Yuanshang returned to Heaven-Bearing Prefecture, he rose early, tidied himself up, and headed into the palace.
Naturally, Tan Yuanshang encountered no obstacles on his way through the palace and soon reached the entrance to the Imperial Study. After going inside to announce him, the eunuch in charge quickly returned and spoke with utmost courtesy.
"Lord Tan, His Majesty asks you to come in."
"Thank you!"
Tan Yuanshang smiled as he followed the eunuch inside, adding with a smile as they walked.
"During my stay in Jiaodong, I set aside some first-rate sea pearls especially for you. I kept some of the large, fine-looking ones whole and had the lesser ones ground into powder. You can give them a try."
"Oh my, how could I possibly accept?"
"There's no need to stand on ceremony with me!"
By the time Tan Yuanshang finished speaking, the two had entered the Imperial Study. He also cupped his hands toward the court historian in the corner, another official who had served two emperors. Naturally, the historian dared not slight him.
Only when they entered the Inner Study did the emperor, who was reviewing memorials, look up with a smile.
"You're here, Lord Tan?"
At the sight of the emperor, Tan Yuanshang's heart sank slightly. They had not seen each other for only a little over six months, yet even with his limited medical knowledge, he felt the emperor's complexion had deteriorated considerably. Perhaps it was more a matter of instinct.
Tan Yuanshang showed none of this on his face, however. Instead, he smiled and bowed deeply with his hands clasped.
"Tan Yuanshang pays his respects to Your Majesty!"
"Rise! How many places did you visit this time? Did you see anything unusual?"
"I was just about to tell Your Majesty!"
In