Western Liang, The Imperial temple.
Empress dowager Zhao knelt silently on the prayer mat in the middle of the small room. She rubbed her palm together and bent forward until her forehead touched the ground.
She ignored the beads of sweat that rolled down her face and back as she prayed. It was a lot hotter in this part of western Liang and the Lit incense and candle all over the room did not help.
There was only one window and door which was the only source of air. It was a good thing that the dowager Empress had long switched the heavy palace ware for lighter clothes.
The palace clothes were not suitable for the weather in this area. She took out her handkerchief and wiped off her sweat mid-chant.
Minutes later her throat suddenly got itchy. Her hand flew to her neck and she runner gently hoping to somehow soothe her throbbing throat. When that did not help she slowly clear her throat.
