The first rays of dawn stretched across the palace roofs, bathing the golden tiles in warm light. Palace servants had only just begun their morning duties when a graceful figure crossed the imperial garden.
It was Empress Lian An.
The guards outside the Emperor's courtyard immediately bowed.
"Greetings, Your Majesty."
Lian An gave a small nod before entering.
---
Inside the courtyard, the Emperor had just finished his morning sword practice. His robes were simple, and a thin layer of sweat covered his forehead as he handed his sword to Eunuch Gao.
The eunuch suddenly widened his eyes.
"Your Majesty... the Empress has arrived."
The Emperor froze.
"What did you say?"
"The Empress is here."
He turned immediately.
There she stood beneath the flowering plum tree, dressed in a pale blue robe.
For a brief moment, disbelief crossed his face.
Then it was replaced with quiet happiness.
She had come to see him.
