Their young miss, usually composed to the point of coldness, wore a brightness on her face that many of them had never seen before. There was an unmistakable spring in her step, a barely restrained eagerness that spoke volumes.
Han Yu noticed it all, saying nothing, but feeling an unexpected warmth settle in his chest.
They entered the main hall together and took their seats opposite one another. Servants moved swiftly and quietly, soon returning with trays bearing high quality spirit tea. The aroma alone was enough to dispel lingering fatigue. Han Yu took a sip and let out a soft breath.
"Good tea," he remarked. "I missed this."
Qing Luan watched him closely, then leaned forward slightly.
"You have been gone a long time," she said. "Tell me what happened."
Han Yu nodded and began recounting his journey.
