The first light of dawn had already spread across the shrine by the time the meditation session ended.
The sky was pale gold.
The air still cool.
But inside the Empress—
Something had shifted.
—
The flow she felt during meditation…
Was still there.
Quieter now.
Hidden.
Just as the monk had taught.
—
"Hush… breathe… hide within…"
—
She repeated it softly as she walked.
And the energy—
Folded inward again.
—
Good.
—
She exhaled slowly.
Then—
Her stomach growled.
—
"…Right."
—
Food.
—
Kitchen — A Different Kind of Peace
The shrine kitchen was alive with activity.
Not chaotic like the palace.
But steady.
Disciplined.
—
Wood fires burned low.
Steam rose from pots.
The scent of rice and herbs filled the air.
—
Her friend was already there.
Sleeves rolled up.
Hair tied loosely.
Arguing with a cook.
—
"No, no—if you overcook it, the texture is gone!"
—
The cook sighed.
"You always say that."
—
"And I'm always right."
—
