The path to the audience was long, and everyone remained silent, their footsteps barely audible. Only occasional tinkling sounds broke the silence, from a bell in Xi Linxuan’s fragrance pouch, which Wei Linxia had heard in their bridal chamber the previous night.
“Rest if you’re tired,” Xi Linxuan said.
“No, not tired,” Wei Linxia quickly responded.
Finally, they saw the majestic palace, which Wei Linxia had glimpsed before through the high walls, but today was different. The palace stood on a three-zhang white marble platform, surrounded by guards in strict formation, emanating a solemn atmosphere.
After the eunuch’s announcement, Wei Linxia heard the sharp voice echo back. Passing the main hall, through the corridor, they arrived at a slightly more modest palace facing south. The surroundings remained eerily quiet.
Entering the hall, layers of curtains created a maze-like environment.
Wei Linxia’s nervousness faded during the long journey. Xi Linxuan gently patted her hand, eliciting a slight smile from her.
Behind the curtains, there was no dragon throne as she had imagined. Instead, a simple rocking chair, a high table, and shelves filled with books greeted them. Green-leafed orchids by the window filled the air with a light fragrance. The Emperor, in a black dragon robe, sat uncomfortably in the rocking chair, pressing his temples as if troubled.
Xi Linxuan signaled Wei Linxia to help him stand, and they knelt side by side.
“Your subject pays respects to Your Majesty.” These rituals, taught to her in Lady Fan’s palace, required three kneelings and nine kowtows.
After completing the formalities, the Emperor, who had been resting with closed eyes, ordered them to rise and be seated. His sharp gaze made Wei Linxia, who kept her head lowered, feel immense pressure. Unlike the Empress Dowager’s piercing look, the Emperor’s made one feel completely exposed.
“Oh? Is there a green peony in the Eastern Palace?” The Emperor’s first words surprised Wei Linxia.
She thought he would ask about her name, the books she had read, or her skills in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting.
“Yes, for some reason, a green one bloomed this year,” Xi Linxuan answered calmly.
The emperor laughed, “Not bad. It’s much more pleasing than those vulgar red ones. I’ve been busy and haven’t summoned you to talk. Have lunch with me today and we can chat.”
They agreed.
