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Rumors had spread through the various departments in and out of the palace, down the alleys of Donglou Street, and even reached the emperor's desk via the Imperial Censorate, naturally, they also made their way to the Grand Preceptor's Mansion at Vermilion Bird Gate.
In the courtyard of the Grand Preceptor's Mansion, by the pond and rockery, groups of fish leisurely swam about—golden helmets, ink eyes, brocade coats, plum blossom patches...At a glance, the waters shone with a glinting golden twilight, murmuring rhythmically.
The literary officials of the present court were particularly fond of raising cranes and admiring fish, with the refined scholars of the Liang Dynasty following suit, often nurturing these creatures within their courtyards and studios. Yet, the fish and cranes in the homes of others paled in comparison to the rare specimens found in the Grand Preceptor's Mansion; when it came to such treasures, the Grand Preceptor's garden was unparalleled.