Lo pi's walled-off section is small and quaint, divided by rice paper screens that soften the lantern glow into warm squares.
Across the royal family's sleeping floor, shipped wood blocks serve as traditional pillows beside neat sleep rolls and thin mattresses, fitted closely to save room.
Behind several screens, Lo pi's aunts kneel while their maids move swiftly around them. Shadows bend, lift arms, and turn as hair is tied and faces are prepared.
Brushes whisper against painted skin. Ribbons pass from hand to hand, and the faint scent of powder mingles with straw, cedar, and morning incense.
The compact rooms make every motion visible in outline but conceal each aunt's finished appearance, preserving the family's quiet privacy behind the paper walls.
Lo pi
The rice paper carries every shadow, but no face is clear.
Beyond the screens, the royal household continues its swift preparation, leaving Lo pi within his small chamber and the next moment entirely open to him.
“I get my self ready so that i can greet and warmly say goodmorning to my aunts and maids soon”
Lo pi dresses in his all-black garments, settling each fold neatly beneath his short dark hair and the small horns above his brows. He smooths his sleeves and checks his appearance in a bronze mirror.
He steps beyond his rice paper screens as morning light gathers through the wooden lattice. The household's incense burns gently, mingling with cedar and fresh powder.
Lo pi
Good morning, my aunts, and good morning to all the maids. It is good to see you.
The nearest screen slides aside. An elderly elf woman with silver hair, warm brown skin, and layered plum robes inclines her head, while a young woman in a cream-and-green servant's robe pauses beside her.
The Elderly Aunt
Good morning, Lo pi. You are ready before the household has even finished arranging itself.
The Young Maid
Good morning, my lord. The morning suits you.
Soft laughter passes behind the remaining screens. Ribbons are gathered, sleeves are straightened, and the close royal chambers settle into an easy rhythm around his greeting.