Dusk scatters in pale purple and blue through the tall windows, draining the lanky shadows from the late afternoon. A lone warbler sings the last notes of its high-flung, teetering song, and a pleasant tranquility weaves through.
The bath has worked its wonders on my body, infusing it with a refreshed vigor to face the evening ahead. My legs stride through the corridor, but my thoughts amble behind. As much as the lengthy soak smoothened my weary muscles, the conversation with Lanying frayed the edges of my already fragile mind.
Even before the door swings open, merry voices welcome me into the room. Servants swish around, decking the table with copious dishes and colorful fare. Mouthwatering aromas of sweet and sour, and savory blend in the air. Dendup clenches a glass filled to the
