Shen Yao stood alone in the portico.
The lanterns swayed overhead, casting warm pools of light across the stone floor. From inside the hall came the muffled hum of conversation—laughter, the clink of cups, the rustle of silk. He could smell roasting meat and spiced wine, even from here.
He did not move.
"It should go in. It's getting colder" he thought as he rubbed his cold hands together "No, I'll wait a bit longer."
He needed a moment. Just one.
Then footsteps approached.
A man walked toward him, smiling. Eunuch Tan—the same imperial eunuch who had delivered the emperor's concern after the failed ambush. His purple robes were immaculate; his hands tucked into his sleeves.
"Young Master Shen." Eunuch Tan bowed. "It is an honor to see you again."
Shen Yao bowed in return. "This servant is honored by His Majesty's concern."
He straightened. Eunuch Tan did the same, his sharp eyes doing a quick once‑over of Shen Yao.
"You seem better than the last time," the eunuch observed. His smile deepened.
"It is all thanks to His Majesty's care," Shen Yao replied.
Eunuch Tan's smile widened. Everyone appreciated dealing with smart people who did not complicate matters. And indeed, the eunuch knew that his assessment of the young general had been correct.
" If you'll join me, His majesty will see you now" he said making a welcoming gesture toward the hall.
"Shall we, Young Master?"
Shen Yao nodded, and they walked forward together.
---
From amidst the cluster of nobles standing near the entrance, Shen Yiyi watched.
She had seen everything from beginning to end. And from beginning to end, her cousin had not looked in her direction once. All his attention had been on Shen Miao. That orphan. That nobody.
She gritted her teeth.
Then a burst of laughter caught her attention. She paused and glanced toward the source.
Young Master Ling.
He was standing near the center of the hall, cup in hand, laughing too loudly at something a companion had said. His robes were rich but slightly disheveled, his face flushed from wine. He looked harmless. Foolish, even.
Shen Yiyi's lips curved.
"Perfect."
She smoothed her robes, arranged her expression into one of pleasant composure, and walked into the main hall.