A Ascensão das Damas de Companhia na Corte

Year 3 of the Zhaocheng Era, March 15th.

At dawn, Chang’an had just been dusted by a shower of peach blossom snow, which ceased by evening. Now, the full moon was about to rise above the treetops, its silver light spilling brightly across the land. A spring breeze swept through the night, chilling to the bone.

Sang Qingyun carried a palace lantern as she stepped out from the women's quarters where the female attendants resided. The cold made her instinctively draw her cloak tighter around herself.

Spring had already arrived in Chang’an, and the palace was abloom everywhere—a splendid scene, perfect for welcoming the new beauties entering the palace. Yet this sudden peach blossom snow seemed to pull everyone back into winter’s grasp.

Regardless of the weather, tomorrow was the grand day of the palace selection, and surely the young ladies of the harem would find no peace tonight.

She withdrew her gaze calmly and slowly made her way toward the side entrance of the Hall of Diligent Governance, for it was her turn tonight to serve before His Majesty.

As she neared the door, she happened upon Zhao Yuyan, the fellow female attendant who shared her room, coming off duty.

Zhao Yuyan’s expression was uneasy, likely due to troubles with the duties before the Emperor, but she said nothing. She only glanced sideways at Sang Qingyun, hesitated as if to speak, then wordlessly departed.

Seeing her face, Sang Qingyun’s suspicions were confirmed, and she quickened her steps.

Indeed, no sooner had she entered the hall than the sen