Rui lifted her chin, meeting the Emperor's gaze directly. "The Scholar Sect has been teaching at the palace since before my time here. Twice yearly, their disciples arrive to educate everyone - from the lowest kitchen maid to the Empress herself."
The cave's dampness seemed to recede as she spoke, her clear voice filling the space. "That's how I first met Shi Ming, during one of those lectures. Minister Wan helped arrange for books from Azure Mind Academy to reach me in the imperial harem."
She gestured gracefully with one hand. "I may not cultivate qi, but I've studied its theory extensively."
The Emperor shook his head, but Li Shen noticed the fondness in his expression. "I knew you were clever, but this..." He trailed off. "Right under my nose."
