It had been over half a month, half a month without rain and continual high temperatures. The capital was already rife with talk of a severe drought, and grain prices had risen somewhat. If economic control hadn't been tightened, the prices would have increased even more.
Zhulan's foot had improved, the swelling had gone down, but she still couldn't walk. There was ice in the room, keeping the indoor temperature reasonably low.
Xue Han, heavily pregnant, complained, "The weather is too hot, uncomfortably so."
Zhulan cautioned, "Stay away from the ice, you are pregnant!"
Xue Han, uncomfortable from the heat, said, "Being pregnant only makes me hotter. I sweat with any movement. Mother, will we still celebrate father's birthday?"