As he did every day, Fang Yun went to bed at four in the morning by military time, woke promptly at six, and stepped out of his bedroom.
Fang Daniu had been waiting at the door for some time. He wore a neat blue silk robe, and the mustache he had grown made him look steadier and more mature.
As soon as Fang Yun emerged, he began earnestly reporting on the household's affairs.
"Everything was packed overnight, and anything we no longer need has already been loaded onto the carriages. Only a few things we still need to use, such as bowls and chopsticks, remain. The mistress said not to take those. We checked the things in your study three times. They were all ordinary books and writing implements. Everything else should be in your River-Drinking Shell..."
Whether Fang Yun was listening or not, Fang Daniu kept rattling on, holding several sheets of paper covered with notes.
Fang Yun looked up at the sky. The early winter sun had yet to appear in the east. Only the Literary Star hung high overhead, bathing the city in silver light.
Outside the city, dark clouds massed, and cold winds howled.
After having breakfast with Yang Yuhuan, Fang Yun walked a circuit of the rear residence with her, their hands clasped and Nunu in their arms.
Fang Yun stood at the entrance to the rear residence and gazed at the place where he had lived for nearly a year. Then he turned and walked away.
"My lord, will we ever come back?" Yang Yuhuan asked softly, reluctant to leave.
"If we have the chance, we'll come back for a visit."
"Mm."
Yang Yuhuan glanced back once more, tucked her neck slightly against the cold wind, and walked with Fang Yun toward the county