At dawn, an atmosphere of peace and stillness enveloped Fu'an Palace. The only sound was the chirping of birds from the eaves—sweet and melodious, the calls of the fledglings so faint they seemed afraid to wake those still in deep slumber.
As the sky began to gray, the Chancellor and several high-ranking officials arrived at Fu'an Palace, clutching their memorials in haste. They waited a short while before the gate; once Your Majesty had risen, dressed, and completed his morning ablutions, they were admitted to report on several urgent state matters.
By midday, after Your Majesty had addressed the pressing political affairs, the ministers hastily withdrew.
Chapter 48