In the rising sun, all the gold in the courtyard flamed with scarlet shimmering light, like the whole place was being filled with a beautiful, fierce fire.
So this was why this was called Huo Palace.
Abrial had hardly had time to take all this in when she was already being pushed into the next courtyard, which was even more extravagant. This one was filled with scarlet bridges and pools of glittering golden and blood red fish that blew bubbles in the diamond water and stared up at her innocently.
They passed through courtyard after courtyard, revealing riches after riches, until Abrial actually began to drool from amazement. How rich was the Emperor?! Did he actually come out to appreciate all this stuff? How unfair was it that a murderer like him could have all of this? But she had to admit, he sure had style, and he sure knew how to use his wealth…which he must have unimaginable amounts of…
