The lingering snow outside reflected the slanting sun, tinting the window lattices of Funing Hall a faint golden red.
Emperor Chen had always been frugal. His midday meal was simple: a serving of vinegared shredded lamb, a dish of steamed sliced bass, a plate of Dongpo tofu, a bowl of cabbage soup, and a bowl of long-grain rice.
The hall was silent save for an occasional soft crackle from the charcoal brazier.
Zhao Delu stood attending with his hands lowered, stealing glances at the Son of Heaven's expression. His well-maintained face revealed no emotion, though his brows were slightly furrowed, as if he were pondering something important.
"Word has come from the institute that Cheng Zi Ya has returned to the Knowledge and Practice Institute."
When Emperor Chen said nothing more, Zhao Delu straightened his aching back and continued, "He seems to have suffered serious injuries. After a long private conversation with Wei Zhilin, he entered life-or-death seclusion. They say he will not emerge until he reaches the grandmaster realm."
He paused, then added, "According to intelligence from the Dragon Hidden Guards, Cheng Zi Ya went to Wuwei City in the Han Kingdom to rescue He An. Han Zongwang gave him a sound beating, and he returned wounded."
Emperor Chen was picking up a slice of fish. The bass had been brought alive from the Luo River that morning; after steaming, its flesh was snow-white, with wisps of heat rising from it. He placed a slice in his bowl and savored it carefully, his movements unhurried, as though listening to some idle matter that had nothing to do with him.
"Hmph. A brute with courage but no sense."
He spat out a tiny fishbone, the corners of his mouth lifting in faint derision. "A mantis raising its arms against a