Why Have You Gone so Pale Once Again?

Shangjing was lively today, as the envoy’s arrival had been greeted by the presence of several hundred people. In the midst of these proceedings, the Northern Qi Kingdom’s officers and fellow Brocade Guard had to step aside to clear a passage, and with great respect, kneel to the discourteous walk of one woman in particular. "Greetings, Lady Haitang."

Haitang’s eyes were swollen and it looked as if she had not slept much the night before. With her hands tucked into her large pockets, she yawned and brazenly asked, "What the hell are you guys doing here?"

An officer, with great haste, stood up and ran toward her to say, "In accordance with the decree, we have gathered here to welcome the arrival of the southern Qing Kingdom’s head diplomat, Fan Xian. But a guard in the employ of Fan Xian will not inform his master of his allowance to enter the palace."