The imperial court of Hua had only recently begun returning to its ordinary rhythm.
Since the mourning rites for the late Emperor concluded and the new Empress formally ascended the throne, the palace had gradually resumed the steady flow of governance that sustained the empire. Memorials from provincial governors arrived each morning, ministers debated matters of taxation and military supply within the great hall, and the vast machinery of the court once again moved with the slow, deliberate precision expected of the empire's capital.
From the throne, Lian Yue observed everything.
