In the Jinghe Fourteenth Year, on the twenty-ninth day of the twelfth lunar month, the full court convened.
For the final Regular Court Audience of the year, custom required every official in the capital of the fourth rank or higher to attend.
The waiting hall outside the Meridian Gate teemed with people, purple robes and crimson garments dazzling the eye as their colors mingled.
Shen Duan arrived earlier than usual that day.
He wore a purple robe and jade belt beneath a sable cloak, his expression unchanged, his steps unhurried.
Fang Qi followed closely behind, holding a copy of a memorial, and reported in a low voice,
"Chief Minister, the Grand Secretariat completed the Memorial Drafting for He Yanming's submission yesterday."
"What did you propose?" Shen Duan asked softly, without breaking stride.
"'Approve,'" Fang Qi said.
"Kou Yuan proposed 'approve,' Song Yue proposed 'approve,' and this subordinate also proposed 'approve.'"
"All three votes for approval. Heh, heh, heh..."
Shen Duan's steps paused briefly before returning to their usual rhythm as he continued onward.
"He Yanming has reached the end of his tenure as prefect, then."
The laughter in his voice made it plain that he meant the opposite.
So Fang Qi ventured another question. "Chief Minister, then should we..."
"Discuss matters as usual," Shen Duan interrupted, his tone placid.
"He Yanming's Request for Release from Office is his own affair.
Whether the Court approves it is the Court's affair.
We shall say whatever ought to be said."
Fang Qi faltered, then caught his meaning and nodded repeatedly.
The two entered the waiting hall, one behind the other.
At the appointed Mao Hour, the Jingyang Bell rang.
The officials straightened their robes and caps, then entered the hall in order of rank.
Emperor Jing of Zhou ascended his throne, the