Chapter 013 · The Agent Returns
205 Words
Long before noon, rumors filtered into Orchid Pavilion by rattling carts, through whispered couriers, and even by street criers in mockery: “The Jade Lady scorned us all!” Guided by Prince Chu’s secret orders, guards had rescued Crown Prince Qi’an from his dungeon—yet now open war loomed on both borders.
But Qingxia cared for none of it. She sat amidst broken porcelain and spilt feast, her crimson robes blazing in sunlight as she overturned vases and hurled trays to the floor. Guards and maids scurried out, stomachs knotted by her fierce grief. Demand for an audience unmet, she retreated behind the carved doors—and silence fell.
Prince Chu had not set foot in the pavilion since their last reckoning, and Envoy Zhuang journeyed west to parley with Qi. Time was short.
Qingxia crossed to the chest by the inner alcove, retrieved a length of silk sash, and knotted it tightly. The midnight bells would soon strike—and she must slip away.“Your Highness returns!” a sentinel cried at the front gate. Cavaliers in silver cuirasses galloped down Lotus Avenue to stand before Orchid Pavilion. Armor gleamed beneath a waning moon, yet their lord’s calm dread chilled the air.
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