3rd Prince Yang Qui scoffed silently and walked the length of the throne room. Light came in all possible directions from its huge windows that lined the wall. Drawings of cranes (the national animal of the Empire) ran down the pillars which were painted in blue and white (the Empire's national colors).
The prince could see his siblings on either side when he got close enough to the throne. He bowed to his father. "I have returned with victory, Your Imperial Majesty."
The Emperor let out a deep laugh. "No need to address me like you're a general. Do it again."
The Prince stared at the granite floor. "I'm home, Father."
"Rise, my son," said the Emperor.
"Welcome home, Brother," smiled the Crown Prince, who was standing on the side of the throne.
He nodded back.
"Oh, my son!" said Empress Li Xiu (The Empress, first wife of the Emperor), rushing and holding both of his cheeks. "Have you been well?"
