Emperor Guangxi has been bedridden since being struck by a stray arrow during last year's autumn hunt, a fact known throughout the court and the country. However, since that hunt, no one but Song Wei has seen the true extent of the Emperor's illness.
Today, his sudden appearance shocked everyone.
This was because Emperor Guangxi was carried in by eunuchs, not in an imperial carriage, but on a soft bed, with a canopy, and bright yellow curtains hanging down all around, though one could vaguely see the scene inside.
The Emperor was lying down.
As the imperial presence entered the hall, all officials knelt to the ground.
Zhao Xi knelt right in the center of the hall, bowing remotely to Emperor Guangxi.
Listening to the officials shout long live, Emperor Guangxi only found it ironic. His feeble hand moved slightly, lifting the curtain, and he gestured to Mr. Cui.
