When the night wound down, the grand hall began to empty. Ministers departed in clusters, their laughter fading down the polished corridors. The lanterns dimmed one by one until only the golden glow from the dais remained.
Fu Ling stood from his seat, smoothing his robe. The air was heavy with the lingering scent of wine and sandalwood.
"Let's go," Wei Tingche murmured beside him.
Fu Ling nodded, following him out through the towering doors. Their boots echoed across the marble as they stepped into the courtyard where moonlight bathed the white jade steps in silver.
But halfway down, Fu Ling paused.
"Wait for me," he said.
Wei Tingche turned, brows furrowing slightly.
"Where are you going?"
Fu Ling answered vaguely.
"I won't take long."
Before Wei Tingche could ask further, Fu Ling turned and disappeared down a side passage. Wei Tingche sighed and found a spot to sit down.
