The morning sun rose golden over the Duke's estate, warm light spilling through the veranda and glinting off the lacquered carriages lined before the gate.
Lian An stood with her mother and sister in the courtyard, her travel cloak wrapped loosely around her shoulders. Her eyes drifted toward the blooming plum trees—white petals falling like snow. It felt too soon to leave.
The Duchess clasped her hands gently. "You've grown thinner in the palace, my child. Don't forget to eat properly. Take this pouch—it has some herbs and calming tea."
"Thank you, Mother." Lian An smiled softly. "Your tea is better medicine than the palace physician's."
Her father, the Duke, stepped forward next, his usually stern face softened by pride. "The Emperor sent his men early. You'll have escort until the city gates. Don't worry about anything here—we'll handle the estate."
Lian Hua sniffed loudly, clutching her sister's sleeve. "Write to us! Or better—sneak out again next festival!"
