In the Chuigong Hall, fresh tribute mint from the Qiushan mountains burned on the Emperor’s drafting desk. Coiled dragons were intricately carved into the beams, wrapped in red-gold chains, and the hanging drapes were of the bright yellow exclusive to the Emperor. On the east wall behind the throne hung a massive "Map of the Myriad Territories," while the west wall directly opposite was lined with a floor-to-ceiling display shelf for curios.
Zhao Yan and Ran Hongzhen stood outside the hall for a short while before Dexi led them in with a fawning smile.
Upon seeing Ran Hongzhen, the Emperor set aside his vermilion brush and asked, "When did you arrive in the capital, Elder Ran?"
Chapter 55