At a quarter to six, the sun sank in the west.
The lanterns in the garden were lit one by one, their orange halos joining together to illuminate the open pavilion as brightly as daylight.
"His Majesty arrives!!!"
Wang Cheng's voice came from the garden gate, high but not shrill, carrying throughout the garden.
The Presented Scholars in the open pavilion rose in unison, standing with their hands at their sides, holding their breath in solemn attention.
Emperor Jing of Zhou wore a Crimson Gauze Robe as informal dress, a Futou on his head and a Jade Belt at his waist.
He walked at the head of the procession, followed by Wang Cheng and several trusted courtiers.
His pace was neither hurried nor slow, his gaze sweeping over those young faces.
"Sit, all of you." Emperor Jing of Zhou's voice was quiet and easygoing, as though he were welcoming his sons and nephews to a family feast.
The Presented Scholars thanked him for his grace and took their seats.
Emperor Jing of Zhou raised his wine cup, his gaze passing over their faces one by one.
"Today's feast is called the Wenxi Banquet.
"You have studied through long years by cold windows and now find your names on the golden roll. Our heart is greatly comforted." With that, he raised his cup.
"Scholars, drain this cup."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!!"
More than a hundred wine cups rose at once, gleaming softly in the dusk.
The cups clinked, clear and sweet as spring water striking stone.
This was Wei Nisheng's first time drinking wine in Great Zhou, and since it was wine bestowed by the emperor, he drained his cup in one go.
Hmm, all I can say is...
The imperial wine is rich and mellow, soft on the tongue.
Emperor