The spring banquet of the inner palace was set for the middle ten days of the third month. The peach blossoms in the Imperial Garden were in full bloom, and the tables for the Winding Stream Banquet wound along the creek like a snake. The palace servants had risen before dawn to make preparations, scrubbing the rocks beside the creek spotless, laying brocade cushions at every seat, and setting out lacquered wooden dining tables. Silver chopsticks and porcelain dishes rested on them, reflecting the shimmering water. The consorts took their seats in order of rank, a gathering of perfumed robes and elaborate coiffures, their jade ornaments chiming. Crown Prince Qi Ling sat at the head of the eastern side in a moon-white spring robe, its collar and cuffs edged with subtle patterns in silver thread. Beside him, two seats away, was the place meant for Qi Ming, but Qi Ming had yet to arrive.
Second Prince Qi Ming came neither early nor late. He had breakfast with Consort Jing at Yongning Palace, then returned to his own hall to change into a new Crow Blue robe. He fastened a jade belt around his waist and straightened his crown in the bronze mirror. Zhou Wenhan stood beside him holding tea, several times starting to speak and stopping. Qi Ming glanced at him in the mirror and told him to say whatever he had to say. Zhou Wenhan put down the teacup and lowered his voice. "Your Highness, everything has been arranged. The man was transferred from the estate. Before entering the palace, he was registered with Ye Ting. He's among the eunuchs serving dishes today. He's an unfamiliar face; no one will recognize him." Qi Ming murmured assent, picked up the jade pendant on the table, and hung it at his