On the stone tiles by the palace gates, the young eunuchs and maids stationed there hung their heads, dozing off. Upon hearing the sound of footsteps, they snapped to attention, trying to stay alert, and bowed deeply on the ground, not daring to lift their gaze. All they could see was the hem of a flowing Yun Shang gown swaying gently in the breeze, trailing a few brightly dressed female attendants behind.
A dignified noblewoman garbed in a casual golden silk red robe stood beside the renowned Lianyin Lake within the palace grounds. Beside her, a maid carried a silver box containing food for the fish. The lake was dotted with countless lotus pods, nearly all withered. She deftly flicked her handkerchief as she cast the feed into the water, avoiding soiling her hands while observing the koi fish flurrying up to the surface.
