After the Lantern Festival, Shangjing welcomed the first rain of spring.
A fine, drizzling rain fell from the sky, enveloping the entire Imperial Palace in a misty veil.
Two little eunuchs in straw raincoats hurried to the entrance of Moon Viewing Pavilion.
The Yulin Guards standing watch at the entrance raised a hand to block their path.
One of the little eunuchs took out his waist token and said politely,
"We are from the Imperial Kitchen, here to deliver lunch to Princess Consort Zhen."
A Yulin Guard took the token and inspected it. After confirming it was authentic, he opened the gate and let them pass.
The two little eunuchs entered Moon Viewing Pavilion carrying food containers.
A moment later, they came back out.
Their wide straw raincoats completely enveloped them, and they wore bamboo hats. With their heads lowered, only the tips of their chins were visible.
The two Yulin Guards at the entrance glanced at them but didn't notice anything amiss.
