The final feast of the imperial hunt was a vision of opulence and desperation. The fifth and sixth days of the hunt didn't offer anything new.
In fact, this entire week seemed to have been a never-ending Groundhog Day. I think I was almost looking forward to going home tomorrow and dealing with Lady Yuan. She was like a breath of fresh air when compared to these nobles.
And that is saying something.
But back to night's seventh and the final feast.
Silk lanterns dangled from tree branches like hanging fruit, casting flickering shadows over lacquered tables and gold-threaded robes. Musicians plucked soft melodies in the background while nobles chattered with fake ease, all too aware that tonight marked the end of their chance to impress the court and in turn, the Emperor.
