Night had fallen, and a full ten minutes passed after the lighting of the lamps before the emperor finally arrived, late as usual.
"This humble consort greets Your Majesty, may the Emperor live forever."
The flickering candlelight, stirred by the breeze, emphasized the frail silhouette of the woman, who seemed as if she could be swept away by the wind at any moment.
"My love, have I not said this before? From now on, all such formalities are to be dispensed with. You are with child now, do take more care of yourself."
"Thank you for your gracious affection, my Emperor," said Xiu Yang, rising from her half-kneel, glancing shyly at the Emperor with a smile.
Dugu Han affectionately took her cold hand, assisting her to the dining table replete with dishes she loved, nodding with satisfaction.
"My love, if I am late in the future, you must eat first. Do not wait for me. We mustn't starve our royal child," he said, caressing her now slightly rounded belly.
