The Apothecary Diaries - Garden party

The Imperial Garden Festival was one of the most anticipated celebrations at the palace. Silk lanterns illuminated the gardens, musicians played traditional melodies, and tables laden with delicacies filled the pavilions, where nobles and members of the imperial family conversed.

Among the concubines, Wei Xinyue seemed especially lively. Dressed in an elegant pink hanfu, she chatted with some of the ladies, making sure to maintain her delicate smile.

"I always say I don't need gifts to win someone's affection," she commented, adjusting one of her hair ornaments. "My master is the one who insists on spoiling me. Sometimes, I even feel embarrassed!"

One of the women raised her eyebrows.

— How curious. You spent the whole morning asking when you would receive your next gift.

Xinyue chuckled, pretending not to have heard the teasing.

Before the conversation could continue, the eunuchs announced the arrival of the emperor.

His Majesty the Emperor has arrived!

Immediately, the guests interrupted their conversations and took their positions respectfully. The emperor appeared, accompanied by his servants and guards, advancing along the central path of the garden.

As he crossed the space between the tables, nobles and concubines bowed before him. No one dared obstruct his passage, and even the musicians fell silent to await his arrival at the main stage.

Xinyue tilted her head elegantly, casting a discreet glance in her direction, hoping to be noticed.

The emperor ascended the steps of the dais and took his place on the throne. The servants positioned themselves around him, while all remained bowed before His Majesty.

Then, his voice echoed through the garden:

— You may stand up.