The hall was vast, its high wooden ceiling disappearing into shadows above rows of carved beams. Massive pillars supported the roof, each carved with winding dragons, flowering vines, and clouds. Crimson, ivory, and gold silk draped from the ceiling in long flowing layers, separating different sections of the room while leaving the center open.
Hundreds of lanterns hung from the beams and stood along the walls. Their light passed through thin silk screens, filling the hall with a warm golden haze. The glow reflected across the polished wooden floor, where not a single speck of dust disturbed its dark shine.
Low tables surrounded the edges of the hall. Each was covered with dark lacquer and arranged with porcelain cups, wine jars, delicate teapots, and plates of fruit. Peaches, grapes, pears, and small pastries were arranged with almost excessive precision.
