Cining Palace.
The residence of the Empress Dowager, the palace was filled with the scent of sandalwood, and as Zhao Quan was led along by the eunuch, he felt as if he had come to a temple.
But what temple could be so luxurious and magnificent?
The Empress Dowager was offering prayers to the Buddha.
She was dressed plainly, in a simple white robe embroidered with Sanskrit characters, with her hair coiled up and adorned with no jewelry. Although she was in her fifties, she did not seem old but instead emanated a sense of holiness.
An old maid came to report: "Your Highness, the Grand Commandant has arrived and is waiting in the front hall."
The Empress Dowager was sitting on a cushion, with her fingers flicking prayer beads and silently reciting the sutras.
Upon hearing the report, she stopped, opened her eyes slowly, and her slightly cloudy eyes revealed a sharp and alert gaze.
She ordered, "Bring the Grand Commandant in."
Her voice was cold and her tone was calm and steady.
