Yaoguang Palace.
In the garden, a hundred flowers bloomed in a riot of splendor, each vying for beauty.
Consort Ning and Consort Shu walked side by side, their steps light and graceful, like two fairies descending into the mortal world.
Consort Ning wore a pale violet palace gown. Her features were picturesque, and her bearing elegant.
Consort Shu, meanwhile, wore a light green long dress. Bewitchingly beautiful, her glancing eyes revealed all the charm of mature womanhood.
The two strolled along a winding flagstone path.
At times they stopped to admire the scenery; at times they conversed in quiet voices.
"Congratulations, Your Ladyship. You are in for a treat."
Her personal maid Zhishu came trotting over and said sweetly.
Her delicate, pretty face was awash with blushes and delight.
Consort Ning smiled faintly before she could speak, but Consort Shu cut in ahead of her.
"Zhishu, do tell us. What treat has your ladyship received?"
Zhishu gave a graceful curtsey, her voice crisp and pleasant.
"Reporting to Your Ladyship, reporting to Consort Shu, His Majesty has bestowed Moon Splendor Dates. They have already been delivered to the palace."
"I heard from the eunuch who delivered them that this year's yield of Moon Splendor Dates was limited, yet every single tribute date has been sent here."
"Hmph—Consort Min only received a single Heart Lamp Fruit, and she already came flaunting it before Your Ladyship."
"If she learns of Your Ladyship's reward today, won't her face turn green with rage?"
Upon hearing that Emperor Yuanchu had bestowed all of this year's tribute Moon Splendor Dates upon Consort Ning—
Surprise and congratulations could not help appearing on Consort Shu's mature, alluring face.
"Congratulations, Sister."
"His Majesty's affection for Sister truly makes this younger sister envious."
"I cannot finish all the Moon Splendor Dates