return from lanling

[shangba]

A full moon, unblinking.

You did not sleep, to see?

Comments

[shangba]

Then, let us work toward it. Together.

[emperorssmile]

Maybe you’ll let me watch sometimes?

If I still have trouble sleeping after this, maybe I’ll take the second husband for a ride.

[shangba]

My husband lacks patience and discipline.

[emperorssmile]

I might need to tire myself out somehow. Usually, I just take care of the front when I’m doing it to fall asleep.

[shangba]

Wei Ying. No harm.

He exists to please you.

[emperorssmile]

A shadow in comparison to the first husband.

If I do decide to use the second husband, how should I use him?

[shangba]

First, ready your body to receive him.

A slow intrusion, well-oiled. Wei Ying tightens like a vice.

[emperorssmile]

Tell me how I should ready myself.

Don’t you like it when I’m tight around you?

[shangba]

I do. But the intrusion of pliant flesh is not that of jade.

Shall guide, if you conclude the ride inevitable.

[emperorssmile]

I’d much rather have my first husband inside me, but that has to wait until tomorrow.

My wine’s almost gone. Do you feel like you can sleep?

[shangba]

I apologise.

[emperorssmile]

What for?

Anything I can do to help you fall asleep?

[shangba]

Apologies for failing to sleep, disciplined.

Unnecessary. The time is soon to break fast.

[emperorssmile]

We’re a mess when we’re apart, aren’t we?

You’re sure you don’t want my company for a little while longer? I won’t be able to sleep until I warm up my hands and feet.

[shangba]

The sooner Wei Ying sleeps, the quicker his rise.

The more efficient his journey to me.

[emperorssmile]

That’s true.

I still don’t like leaving you alone to insomnia, but I don’t think it would be a good idea to go another night without sleep.

I’m going to check on the kids and get into bed.

[shangba]

Write upon flight.

Shall collect Wei Ying flowers throughout travel.

[emperorssmile]

[At mid-morning:]

Lan Zhan, why did you raise Sizhui to be so cruel?

I’m still tired!

[shangba]

A wise son.

Wei Ying, indolent. You have eaten?

[emperorssmile]

I should have known you’d be on his side

Sizhui made some rice and I’m eating it with some dried meat. He’s having dried fruit instead.

[shangba]

Add a second bowl to his tray. Egg and pickles. Three are permitted.

[emperorssmile]

3 eggs or 3 pickles? Or do you mean the usual 3 bowls of rice?

[shangba]

Three bowls, beloved.

To hear you, he has only taken one. Feed him more.

[emperorssmile]

Right, right. Don’t worry, I’ll nag him to take more food.

Did you get anymore sleep last night?

[shangba]

Rested with meditation.

Will not be a risk to others in flight. At ease.