Wei Yuan had barely settled into the posthouse when Zhao Tong arrived. He welcomed the eunuch into the courtyard and invited him to take a seat in the main hall. Looking around, Zhao Tong said, “His Holiness the Holy King holds you in high regard, Lord Wei. In the past, the Serenity Courtyard was reserved exclusively for kindred kings[1] and dukes returning to the capital for an audience. Ordinary people could never stay here.”

Wei Yuan immediately put on an alarmed expression. “Then I’d better move to another courtyard. Overstepping one’s rank is no small matter!”

Zhao Tong laughed heartily and said, “His Majesty has already granted you the right to pay half-ceremonial respects in court. Naturally, your status should be elevated accordingly. You are already a second rank official, so it is only fitting that you receive a first rank official’s treatment. Just stay here with peace of mind!”

Wei Yuan rose and bowed respectfully in the direction of the royal palace. Only then did he sit back down and say, “This one is deeply humbled.”

Zhao Tong nodded slightly and said, “The reason I’m visiting today is to discuss arrangements with you, Lord Wei. You wouldn’t want to be caught off guard and act out of line, would you?”

“Please enlighten me, Eunuch Zhao.”

Zhao Tong continued, “The first major matter is of course, the audience with his Majesty. He has heard that you have arrived in the capital and is overjoyed by your presence. In fact, he’s scheduled the audience with you for tomorrow’s morning court session! Haha, His Majesty is quite eager indeed!”

“What will be discussed during this audience, and what preparations...