Jinghe Year Fifteen, Fourth Month, Twentieth Day. Clear skies.
The main gate of the Southern Capital, the third quarter of the Horse Hour.
The city gates stood wide open, and lush green willows lined the official road. Beneath the gate, however, stood a youth in a scarlet robe.
A Silver Fish Pouch hung at his waist, the imperially bestowed Jade Balance at his belt. His Black Gauze Cap sat straight, and his expression was composed.
At the sight of his official robes, passersby took detours, lowering their hands respectfully and keeping their distance.
Wei Nisheng stood outside the city gate with his hands clasped, his gaze fixed on the far end of the official road, his bearing serene.
Today was not a day off. He had merely arranged matters with Qiu Heng.
He had hurried over during the midday meal break, which was why he still wore his official robes.
By now, he had waited nearly an hour.
The previous night, Feng Yan had instructed him, "Qin Yan returns today. Go welcome him in my stead."
Illness prevented Feng Yan from going out to welcome his old friend himself, but a friendship spanning decades demanded that he send someone in his place.
He sent Wei Zi partly so that his disciple could observe the courtesies on his behalf, and partly to show Qin Yan that his mantle had found an heir.
Before long, a blue-cloth carriage came slowly into view at the far end of the official road.
It was an unassuming carriage, with no banners or accompanying guards-only an old servant driving and two lean horses pulling it.
Qin Yan had always lived frugally. Even after several years spent traveling and studying, he had merely hired an ordinary carriage for his return to the capital, without alerting anyone.