In the peaceful days at the Funeral Shop, even though the nearby Paper Mache Shop had been quieter lately, Xu Qing maintained his spirited scholarly pursuit.
With a scripture in his hands, incense burning, and swallows chirping under the eaves, the shop had cats, chickens, and a silent maid busy with housekeeping duties.
This tranquil life was so precious that even an emperor would hesitate to exchange places!
Contrary to Xu Qing's serenity, the heir apparent at the Jinmen Changting Royal Mansion was in a treacherous situation.
Ever since Prince Changting, loyal to the state, took his own life at the mouth of the Baishui River following the late Emperor's passing, many 'rumors' had spread among the people.
In the eyes of the populace, the death of the late Emperor was of little consequence, and they might even celebrate with an extra chicken leg for dinner if he had indeed died.
