In the Imperial Palace, everything was ready. Musicians and acting troupes queued up and entered, while Palace Maids served platters of fruit and fine delicacies.
Ministers of the Third Grade and above sat in one row, foreign envoys in another, the Royal Family and Relatives in a third, and the Great Scholars and other scholars in a fourth.
As they met, an endless stream of compliments could be heard.
"I have long admired Master Xun's reputation. At last, I have the honor of meeting you in person."
"Master Xun, since coming to the Capital City, has your stay been comfortable?"
An old man with graying hair, showered with compliments, simply smiled and responded to each person in turn, handling the situation with graceful ease.
Amid the pleasant chatter and laughter, Master Xun noticed a sedan chair stopping outside Changle Palace.
"Prince Langya has arrived."
