The Bai Clan Estate was silent.
Elders dispersed efficiently, some moving to reinforce defensive arrays, others sending silent messages through jade slips.
After the assassination attempt on Bai Zihan, it was natural for them to be more vigilant.
Bai Zihan lead Xi Yu to somewhere they could talk privately.
Xi Yu followed without hesitation.
She didn't seem surprised by the grand appearance of the Bai Clan's estate; rather, it almost looked like she was looking down on it.
Bai Zihan led her into a secluded courtyard deep within the estate.
A small pavilion stood at the center, understated yet elegant.
Moments later, servants arrived silently, setting down spirit tea that released a soft, calming fragrance.
The two of them sat across from each other.
For a time—
Neither spoke.
Steam curled lazily from the porcelain cups.
Night insects chirred faintly in the distance.
Xi Yu lifted her cup, took a small sip, then set it down with precise movements.
