Prologue
not have been surprised if Prince Shou had approached her over its marble walk, arched gracefully toward the doorway. Real flowers blossomed in large pottery jars near the bed, roses, carnations, chrysanthemums and azaleas. The golden bed was surrounded by a canopy of gauze, forming a small square shelter, with a gauze ceiling exquisitely embroidered with flowers, trees, butterflies and an occasional white bird flying.
As Yuhan gazed upon the room enraptured, the old Amah arrived with her clothes and treasured possessions. Yuhan was overjoyed to see her, and threw her arms about her, for the Amah was all that bound her old life to this strange new, breath-taking world.
The old Amah seemed well-pleased at this mark of affection. She smiled in her heart. As long as this child she adored so utterly needed her, life was rhythmic. She was glad that the apartment was so exquisite, but she was sure it was Yuhan's presence that gave it color and warmth.
8.
The day passed quickly. A eunuch came and escorted them to a small room across the court where a sumptuous meal of endless courses was set before them. As a mark of extraordinary respect, the old Amah was permitted to sit at the table with Yuhan. But there was no one else. From a hidden position near by a musician played gentle melodies upon a lute.
Yuhan's curiosity regarding Prince Shou heightened.
