While unrest stirred in the Outer Court, Fang Qianyuan sat alone in the private courtyard, his eyes lightly closed as he quietly rested his mind.
He seemed to have forgotten all official business, and even the Demon-Slaying Assembly at which he was to receive the heroes of the Northern Frontier that day. Like an old man basking in the warm winter sun, he was leisurely and content.
Two kittens, one black and one white, sat quietly side by side on the armrest of his chair, tilting their heads as they watched their master. From time to time, Fang Qianyuan stroked their backs, savoring his pets' sleek fur and gentle obedience.
Behind him, Lin Xiong and Lin Bao stood solemnly like iron towers, equally silent.
Only when Wang Ran entered from outside was that stillness broken.
"My lord, it is already half past nine."
"Mm." Fang Qianyuan gave a mild acknowledgment, but continued stroking the kitten beneath his hand without any other response.
Seeing this, Wang Ran understood his wishes and silently withdrew to one side to wait.
A long while later, other Personal Guards from the Warrior Administration entered and reminded him, "My lord, it is almost noon."
Before they knew it, nearly three hours had passed.
"The guests seem somewhat impatient. Quite a few are clamoring to leave, and some have said they want to come in and take a look, though it is only talk. None have actually acted on it."
Only then did Fang Qianyuan scoop up the little white cat, who had grown so comfortable that she had fallen asleep, and say mildly, "It seems the time is about right."
Hearing this, Wang Ran and the others hurriedly formed ranks and filed out.
Startled, the little black cat leaped forcefully from the armrest and vanished into