The evening breeze drifted through the Imperial Garden, carrying the fragrance of blooming jasmine. Golden sunlight filtered through the willow branches, painting the stone paths with warm light.
For the first time in many days, the palace felt peaceful.
Empress Lian An walked slowly beside Lady Chen and Princess Zhi, followed by several maids at a respectful distance.
Princess Zhi smiled. "It has been a long time since the three of us walked together without discussing court affairs."
Lady Chen laughed softly.
"Exactly. If we continue speaking only about ministers and memorials, I'll forget how to enjoy a peaceful evening."
Lian An smiled.
"Then no politics today."
"Agreed," both women answered together.
They wandered deeper into the garden.
Birds returned to their nests while koi fish swam lazily beneath the lotus leaves.
Princess Zhi suddenly asked, "Have either of you ever experienced something... unusual?"
Lady Chen looked curious.
"What kind of unusual?"
