When the steward came knocking, Shen Fei was sitting at the table, leafing through the Basic Inscription Manual.
He folded down the corner of a page, closed the book, and rose to open the door.
The old steward stood outside empty-handed, his expression solemn. In a hushed voice, he said, "Young master, the master wants you in his study. Right away."
Shen Fei's gaze lingered on the steward's face. The old man had served in the household for decades and always delivered messages with composure, but today he seemed more cautious than usual.
Shen Fei nodded, his tone unchanged. "Understood. I'll go now."
He went back inside to put on an outer robe, then followed the steward through the covered corridors toward the main courtyard.
It was afternoon, and most of the servants were taking their midday rest. The corridors were nearly deserted, with only the wind chimes hanging from the eaves occasionally stirring in the breeze, giving off faint, scattered tinkles.
Shen Fei walked half a step behind the steward. He did not ask why Shen Hong wanted to see him, and the steward showed no inclination to explain. They continued one behind the other, their footsteps sounding in turn along the bluestone path.
As they passed through the moon gate, Shen Fei looked up toward the main courtyard.
The window of Shen Hong's study was half open. A blurred silhouette showed through the window paper, too indistinct to make out. He withdrew his gaze without slowing his steps.
When they reached the study door, the steward stepped aside and bowed, gesturing for him to enter.
Shen Fei raised his hand and knocked on the doorframe. Shen Hong's voice came from inside. "Come in."
He pushed the door open and entered. The study was dimmer than outside. Though the