Ningyan had no intention of going to dinner.
It was a tempting offer, very tempting, but he still hadn't spoken to Wuhen since the attempt to hurt Lan Meishan, to drag out his wild side.
He didn't return to the fox manor either.
As the sun dipped toward the horizon, painting the mountains in hues of amber and violet, Ningyan made his way up the long stone stairs leading to the Azure Dragon Manor. The golden sigil Haoxuan had given him rested cool and heavy in his palm, his flute tucked securely into his belt, notes hidden within his robe.
By the time he reached the gates, dusk had fully settled.
Two dragon guards stood watch, tall and unmoving. Their reptilian eyes tracked his every step. Ningyan cleared his throat softly and raised the sigil.
The guards exchanged a glance.
Slowly, the gates opened.
Ningyan stepped into the manor grounds and made his way toward the entrance only to nearly collide with someone rushing past.
