At the same time.
South Qin Imperial Palace.
Hall of the Yang Pole.
This was Emperor Yuan You's study. Much like Emperor Longchang's Humble Governance Pavilion, it was where Emperor Yuan You handled state affairs on a daily basis, and the place where he spent most of his time.
For that reason, the hall's furnishings were exceptionally refined.
Priceless ancient calligraphy and paintings hung upon the stone walls. A Red Copper Incense Burner sat atop a tall table in one corner, expensive incense burning within it. Wisps of fragrant smoke curled upward, lending the place a tranquil, peaceful air.
Comfortable soft couches for resting were scattered throughout the hall. Several lovely palace maids were stationed about, some quietly brewing tea, others silently tidying and cleaning. In a corner, a group of palace maids skilled in music played soothing melodies upon instruments characteristic of South Qin.
It was nothing if not indulgent.
It was not yet noon, but Emperor Yuan You had already finished dealing with the few state affairs awaiting him and was completely free. At present, he had an exquisite beauty in his arms as he sat leisurely drinking.
One translucent spirit fruit after another was fed into his mouth by the beauty.
A pair of jade-white hands, slender as peeled scallions, rested upon his shoulders, massaging them with just the right amount of pressure.
Amid the gentle, soothing music of silk strings, Emperor Yuan You felt utterly relaxed in body and mind, as though he might float away. Even the pent-up frustration he had accumulated from having to fawn upon the Blood Child Devil Master these past days dissipated like smoke.
"Ha ha ha ha~ My beauties are still the most considerate." He laughed heartily. "I've been stifled for so many days. Only today has my mood improved