Returning to the Imperial Palace for an audience, Ying Rushi was surprised to find... the air was very fresh.
The skylights and doors were all open, allowing soft sunlight to stream directly into the great hall, illuminating every corner through the reflective structure of the building. The cross-breeze dispersed the oppressive heat, and upon entering the hall and looking up, one could see the majestic and solemn dragon carvings. Although the supreme solemnity and gravity could still be felt, there was no sense of oppression in her heart, only reverence for imperial power.
But when Ying Rushi saw clearly the silhouette on the throne, her mind went blank in an instant, almost unable to contain herself. By the time she came back to her senses, she was already kneeling before the Sumeru Throne.
Sitting on the throne was, naturally, the Emperor of Qi, Ying Le.