After running for about the time it takes half an incense stick to burn, Eunuch Wei suddenly halted. Zheng Fan naturally stopped as well, beginning to catch his breath.
"Lord Zheng, take a moment to catch your breath. We wouldn't want you to accidentally offend His Majesty when you meet him."
"Thank you, Eunuch Wei."
The two began to walk at a steady pace. They passed by a small garden, similar in size to the imperial garden in the Forbidden City. In any case, it was far too small for consorts to play games like hide-and-seek or orchestrate "accidental" encounters.
The Imperial Study was situated behind the garden, with a small pond separating them. After they crossed a covered walkway over the pond, Eunuch Wei signaled Zheng Fan to wait outside while he entered first.
A palace with a master felt entirely different from one without. Standing at the entrance, Zheng Fan felt a distinct chill.
