Amidst the wisping incense smoke rising from the table and the fragrance of the pastries and fruit platters laid out as offerings, the official from the Ministry of Rites began to read the Holy Decree in a stern, formal manner.
That's right, a Holy Decree. His Majesty the Emperor was delighted that the Queen's Seal had been returned, and he had specially issued this decree to lavish praise upon Zhao Jing, Chen Wanqing, and Chen De'an.
The decree's elegant and refined wording clearly conveyed the favor and high esteem in which the three were held.
Although there were no direct appointments to official posts, nor were any noble titles conferred, the Emperor and Empress had bestowed upon them priceless treasures, worthy of being passed down as family heirlooms.
The brocade boxes, large and small, filled an entire carriage. Though shut tight, a fine, subtle fragrance still drifted from them, making it impossible not to wonder what lay inside.
