Chapter 57

• Ril’m surveyed Concubine Harrishen’s residence. It was cozy and womanly, with soft red carpet under her boots, and the warm colors of orange, yellow, and red on the walls were displayed by the paintings of sunsets and sunrises. The atmosphere was quiet and elegant. The hint of sweet floral scent gave the residence an obvious feminine air. She believed the scent came from the special winter flowers that were placed in huge gold-colored jade vases placed at intervals near the walls.
• The concubine’s maids hastily prepared drinks and snacks for the general and her men. But the latter were served outside the residence. Only the general was allowed to enter with the other concubine, so it was the three of them in the reception hall of the second concubine.
• There was a special stand with a drape that covered the general’s table from the two concubines that sat side by side with their own tables across from her.