Inside the imperial palace, West Courtyard Lake.
The lake was nearly circular in shape, its broad surface averaging a hundred li in diameter. From afar, it had the vast, misty expanse of rolling waters.
Like a pearl set within Guilong City, it was enclosed by the imperial palace's colossal walls, becoming Emperor Longchang's private "pond."
Within the imperial palace were lakes and mountains alike, a testament to its enormous scale.
The water-element spiritual energy within West Courtyard Lake was exceptionally abundant. As the spiritual energy gathered, it condensed into spirit mist visible to the naked eye. When the wind blew, gauzy clouds of mist drifted over the lake's surface, making it seem like an immortal lake fallen into the mortal world.
Rows of waterside pavilions had been built along the shore. The architectural complex was grand and majestic, fully displaying the grandeur of an imperial household.
And yet such a vast complex had been named "Lakeside Cottage." Emperor Longchang's taste was clearly nothing special.
Before the waterside pavilions.
Emperor Longchang, dressed in casual clothes, was currently fiddling with an exquisite Lure Fishing Rod.
The long fishing line had been cast more than a li away. With practiced motions, he jerked and swung the rod, making the artificial lure wriggle and twist. Its swimming posture was utterly shameless, as though it were calling out to the predatory Spirit Fish in the lake, "Come eat me already~ Come eat me~"
It was brimming with temptation.
Suddenly.
The rod tip dipped sharply.
"Hooked!"
Emperor Longchang's spirits soared. He fiercely jerked the rod—and sure enough, he had caught a big fish.
He immediately began reeling it in with delight.
"Your Majesty." At that moment, Old Yao approached in quick little steps and reported softly, "Wang Shouzhe has arrived and is waiting outside Lakeside Cottage.