The door opened no wider than a hand's breadth with warm light spilling across the threshold, brushing against Li Wei's sandals before fading into the corridor. A lined face appeared in the gap, framed by graying hair pulled back with care.
The emperor's eyes were clear despite their age, measuring the darkness beyond the door with practiced restraint. "I am not expecting any visitors at this hour," Emperor Hui Tong said. His gaze drifted briefly to either side of the corridor, then returned to the empty space before him. "Nor do I entertain foolish games or antics"
Li Wei stepped forward just enough for his voice to be heard, as his form leaned in closer. "Then I will be brief." The emperor's brow creased as he studied the space again, this time he took even longer almost as though listening for something more than a voice.
His hand remained on the door, knuckles pale beneath the skin.
"Close the door," Hui Tong said at last. "Am short for time."
The latch turned.
~thunk~
