The eastern sky reveals the pale white of dawn, as the first light of morning spreads its glow and sketches the vast silhouette of the Imperial City.
Deep within the Imperial Palace, surrounded by vermillion walls, lies a luxurious palace.
Ningde Palace.
Inside the palace, ornately carved beams and painted rafters exude grandeur. The floor is paved with white jade, engraved with rivers and mountains; the walls use silk brocade as a base, embroidered with ruyi cloud patterns in gold and silver threads.
In the inner hall, palace servants light the octagonal palace lamps.
Behind the sheer curtains, a graceful figure is faintly visible.
"Your Highness, it's almost time."
Sun Senior Palace Lady stands with royal garb in hand, bowing deeply.
"Ah, it's time for court again..."
"Just thinking of those old faces gives me such a stifling feeling in my heart, I really can't stand it for a moment..."
The Empress's voice is tinged with displeasure and laziness.
