The lotus flowers on the pond had all fallen, leaving only dry, black, and yellow branches tangled on the water's surface. A desolate autumn breeze stirred ripples on the lake, as Tata Kai leapt out of the lookout with the rope in tow, forming a large loop mid-air before landing on the deck. He raised his paw, directing the crew to load boxes of treasure into the cabin.
The officials moved across the gangplank, unruffled and orderly.
Of course, this was not the credit of Tata Kai.
On the other side of the moving crew.
An eunuch waved a horsetail whisk and pulled open the grand cabin doors, speaking in a sing-song manner, "Walk slowly, be careful not to knock against anything; this is a gift from His Majesty to Lord Xingyi. Do it well, and there shall be rewards; mess it up, and I cannot bear the consequences."
"Life is precious, and should be enjoyed; no need to resent the withered and worn..."
Liang Qu leaned against the ship's rail, shaking his head.
