That Flew
The Duke's estate burst to life that morning.
Carriages rolled into the courtyard one after another, their wheels grinding against cobblestones as horses snorted and servants shouted greetings.
The air shimmered with energy, perfumed with sandalwood and the faint scent of southern spices.
From the first carriage stepped a tall, broad-shouldered man with sun-darkened skin, laughter in his voice, and dust from a long journey still clinging to his boots.
Lian Ruo, nephew to the Duke, beloved son of the Duke's younger brother, and known throughout the provinces for both his sword and his charm, had finally come home.
---
A Grand Return
"Uncle! Aunt Xiu!" he called, bowing deeply as servants began unloading crates behind him. "Father sends greetings from the southern province and these humble gifts. Mother insisted I bring half the coast with me—she said Aunt's tea tasted lonely without proper company."
