The East Garden was vast. The area near the center of the lake was the most prominent spot, offering the best view and the location where Emperor Youning would preside over the dragon boat race.
A three-story viewing pavilion had been constructed there, providing shelter from the wind and sun while offering an unobstructed, panoramic view of the entire lake and the upcoming competition. The imperial family and the Emperor’s closest confidants were invited to sit on the top level alongside him. Seating for others was assigned further down based on official rank. Two long galleries flanked the pavilion, with tables and chairs reserved for those of appropriate status. Those without titles were relegated to the smaller pavilions scattered around the grounds.
While not everyone enjoyed the formality of sitting through the entire event, the difference between having a seat and having nowhere to sit was significant. For instance, although Princess Wuyang and Lingshu had arrived at the venue separately from State Duke Xiao's Estate, Wuyang could join Noble Consort Zhou on the third floor of the viewing pavilion, while Lingshu, despite having entered the inner grounds with Prince Rui and the Princess Consort, could only sit in a pavilion below.
Chapter 55