Palace lanterns swayed outside the Bedchamber. The Empress, dressed in a long scarlet gown, went in and out several times, and four or five empty bowls accumulated on the round table.
As a martial artist at the pinnacle, Ye Jingtang already had a considerable appetite. With his recovery having overdrawn his body so severely, he ate several large bowls before the weakness and palpitations subsided. Once he had something in his stomach, every limb and bone felt a little clearer. He put down his chopsticks and gently exhaled.
"Phew..."
The Empress had been sitting beside him, attending to him. Now she took out a handkerchief and wiped the fine sweat from his forehead.
"Would you like some more?"
Ye Jingtang took the handkerchief. "I shouldn't gorge myself either. Seventy percent full is enough. Is there somewhere to bathe here? I've been rushing around outside all day, and I'm covered in sweat..."
The Empress had long since ordered people to prepare everything. At this, she helped Ye Jingtang to his feet again and led him behind the screen in the Bedchamber.
For nearly ten years, the Empress could have suffered an attack at any moment and needed to soak in a bath to recuperate. For this reason, whether in the Imperial City or a temporary palace, her Bedchamber always had a bathing pool ready.
Now she went behind the screen and slid the door open, revealing a white stone pool over ten feet square. Display shelves stood on either side, holding golden sword-breakers, a Horse Spear, armor, and other items. The furnishings were much like those in the Imperial City, and even the water was hot.
Ye Jingtang had rushed all the way back from Jade Water Forest through the pouring rain; he could hardly have remained spotless. After sweating over