Ever since the imprisonment of the Noble Consort, the Emperor turned to work, refusing to even step foot into the harem quarters, or pay the Empress a visit. Once he was done with morning court, he would take requests to see him. After that, he would promptly hide away in his study, working on a diet of only fruits and wine.
At night, he would stare at the pond in his quarters, drinking heartily, but not enough to leave him impaled. This rigours cycle continued for days, and with each passing second, everyone worried for him.
"Emperor, consort Yunru has invited you to come listen to a poem she composed by the cherry blossom trees…." The Emperor's Eunuch attempted to pass the invite letter to his Majesty, but without even taking a look he waved his hand away.
The Eunuch nodded and took the invite away, trying again he said, "Consort Xiaofan has made a new dish and wants you to…"
