Morning sunlight spilled over the street like melted gold, warming the stone path that led to Whisper Bowl. By the time Empress Lian An stepped outside with her sleeves rolled up, the entire neighborhood was already awake.
Hammers clanged.
Saws screeched.
Workers shouted measurements from one room to the next.
The renovation of the second shop — the new TWB main branch — was entering its final three days.
Dust clouds drifted every time a wall was knocked down, but the excitement in the air kept everyone energetic.
Today was the first full day after returning from the barbaric camp.
Five days remained before the Empress had to pretend to "recover" and return to the palace.
She had no time to waste.
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1. Morning Assembly — Training Begins
Yao Qing clapped loudly.
"Everyone, gather! Sister Lian wants to speak!"
