The autumn weather was clear and cool, filled with refreshing air and clean water. The wind blew unimpededly and fruits grew abundantly on the trees. At such a good time for relaxing outside, the Sumptuous Fruits Banquet finally arrived.
Meng Qi and Su Ziyu did not directly take a carriage to the Jade Forest Garden in the outer cities like most court officials and aristocrats. Instead, they followed Su Li and Su Yue to the imperial city. Even though Su Li was temporarily suspended from his duty as the Vice Commander of the Imperial Guard, he had not lost the trust of the Emperor and was still required to accompany him. On the other hand, Su Yue was the intermediate force to protect the Emperor.
The massive door with dragon carvings, the deep and seemingly endless doorway, the oncoming wind through the hall, and the chilly and unforgiving air in the imperial city reinforced its majestic demeanor and made Meng Qi feel alienated.
