Battle of Palaces

At last, the silence was broken by a commanding voice that echoed through the hall.

"The Empress Dowager and His Majesty, the Emperor!"

Eunuch Liu's proclamation was clear and loud, carrying the weight of the moment. Every head turned toward the entrance, and as if choreographed, the entire assembly rose to their feet in unison.

The sound of the Dowager's jade-heeled shoes preceded her appearance, a deliberate and steady rhythm that heightened the anticipation. She entered first, her regal presence commanding the attention of all. Dressed in a rich purple robe, the color of imperial wisdom and longevity, she wore a crown of golden phoenixes adorned with luminous pearls. Despite her age, her bearing was upright, her gaze sharp and assessing as she surveyed the hall.

Following her by the side was the Emperor, his stature tall and imposing. His robe of deep black was embroidered with golden dragons, each stitch a testament to his unrivaled authority. His expression was unreadable, a mask of imperial detachment that gave no hint of his thoughts.

Together, they ascended the dais, their movements synchronized like a celestial dance. The Emperor held out his hand to assist the Dowager as she settled onto her throne, a gesture of filial respect that did not go unnoticed.

"Be seated," the Dowager's voice rang out, clear and firm despite its age.

The assembly bowed deeply before taking their seats, the rustle of silks and brocades filling the air.

The feast had begun.

With the Emperor and Empress Dowager seated, the feast began in earnest. Eunuchs and maids moved swiftly, pouring fragrant teas and serving delicacies to each table. The hum of conversation filled the air as the imperial family exchanged polite words, but all attention turned to the Dowager as she stood, her presence silencing the hall.

The Empress Dowager gazed out at the assembly, her regal yet composed demeanor commanding respect. She began her speech, her voice firm yet touched with nostalgia.

"Tonight is not merely a celebration of age or status," she began, her gaze sweeping across the hall, "but a testament to resilience. Many years ago, during the war that ravaged our empire, I found myself consumed by sorrow and despair. The suffering of our people weighed heavily on my heart. It was in those darkest hours that I turned to the teachings of the Buddha, seeking solace and guidance. From his teachings, I learned patience, humility, and the value of compassion."

Her voice softened, her words now carrying a personal note. "It is my hope that the peace we enjoy today continues to be cultivated by each of you—not through pride or ambition, but through harmony and wisdom. Let this feast remind us of the bonds that hold the empire together."

The hall erupted into respectful applause, though the Dowager raised a hand, signaling for silence. "And now," she said, her voice regaining its formality, "I look forward to seeing this harmony passed down to the generation to come ."she concluded, taking her seat. The murmurs of admiration filled the hall, as Eunuch liu stepped forward announcing "let the gift presentation begin!"

The room grew tense with anticipation as Eunuch Liu signalled, announcing the first presenter. "Shu Fei niang naing of Luyang Palace."

Shu rose gracefully, her pale lavender gown glinting under the light. Her steps were deliberate, exuding confidence as she approached the Dowager. Two maids followed behind her, carrying a porcelain vase painted with scenes of filial piety and surrounded by intricate lotus patterns.

"This humble offering, Niangniang, is a symbol of the harmony and respect that binds family," Shu said with a serene smile, bowing deeply.

The Dowager examined the vase, nodding her approval. "A fine piece," she said, her voice measured. Shu's lips twitched upward as she returned to her seat, convinced she had made an impression.

Next came Consort Xian. Her maids carried a silk scroll, its edges gilded and its surface painted with an ethereal scene of the Buddha under the bodhi tree, surrounded by serene disciples. The vivid colors and masterful brushstrokes drew gasps from the assembly.

"Taihuo niang niang (The Empress Dowager)," Xian said softly, "this painting is a humble representation of the peace and enlightenment you so value."

The Dowager's eyes lingered on the scroll for a moment longer than they had on Shu's vase. "Exquisite work," she remarked. Shu's fingers clenched on her lap, her earlier confidence beginning to waver.

The Empress followed, her maids presenting a meticulously crafted set of jade prayer beads, each bead carved with a symbol of protection and blessings. "Mother," she said, her tone warm, "these beads are meant to offer you solace during your prayers and meditation."

The Dowager smiled, genuinely touched. "You have always been thoughtful, Huanghuo," she said, clutching the beads lightly before placing them aside.

Noble Consort Ling came next, her offering a golden incense burner shaped like a lotus flower. The intricate design emitted a faint, calming aroma that immediately filled the air. "May its fragrance bring you peace, Niangniang," Ling said with a bow.

The Dowager's expression softened as she nodded. "You have chosen well."

As Noble Lady Yu and Concubine Hua presented their respective gifts—each impressive but overshadowed by the earlier presentations—the tension in the room thickened. Then came Consort Jia's turn.

Jia stood, her crimson gown shimmering as she approached the dais. Her maids carried a phoenix-handmade fan, its handle adorned with jade and its surface painted with golden phoenixes in flight. Inscribed in delicate calligraphy were verses from the Buddhist scriptures.

"This fan, Niangniang, is a representation of your unwavering grace and wisdom," Jia began, her voice steady despite the attention on her. "The verses on it speak of enlightenment, a journey that mirrors your own as you brought peace to the empire."

The hall was silent as the Dowager rose from her throne. Gasps rippled through the assembly as she stepped down, taking the fan into her hands herself. "Such a thoughtful gift," she said, her voice almost reverent. Her eyes met Jia's, and for the first time that evening, the Dowager smiled warmly.

"Tell me, Jia Fei," the Dowager said, her tone curious, "I had heard you were with child and excused from burdensome tasks. How did you find the strength to prepare this gift?"

Jia bowed deeply, her voice steady but filled with sincerity. "Niangniang, while I have been blessed with the Emperor's favor, I cannot let that diminish my duty to honor you. Your guidance and sacrifices inspire me daily. This small offering is the least I could do."

The Dowager's expression softened further. "Your heart is in the right place," she said, returning to her throne.

Shu's face turned paled, her earlier triumph completely overshadowed. Hua's eyes burned with envy, her nails digging into her palm as she forced a smile.

Just as the hall began to settle, Eunuch Liu's voice rang out again. "Announcing His Highness, Prince Lan!"

All heads turned to the entrance. Lingyi lost her breath for a second. There stood Prince Lan, dressed in a deep blue robe embroidered with silver cranes. His presence commanded attention as he strode confidently into the hall, a small, lacquered box in his hands.

He bowed deeply before the Dowager and Emperor, his expression sincere. "Niangniang, I apologize for my late arrival. I bring a gift I hope will bring you joy."

He opened the box, revealing a jade pendant carved in the shape of Buddha, its craftsmanship unparalleled. "This pendant, Niangniang, is a token of my respect and gratitude for the guidance you have shown us all."

The Dowager's eyes lit up as she accepted the gift. "You never fail to surprise, Lan. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated."

The hall erupted into murmurs of approval. Even Jia couldn't help but glance at Lan, her curiosity piqued. Lingyi, standing beside Consort Xian, felt her heart race as she watched him. Her sole aim of attending this feast was here, and now she was left with one question—How to approach him.