The Empress returned from the hill just as evening fully settled across the inner palace.
Mist still clung faintly to the hems of his robes, pale silk carrying the scent of incense and mountain wind. The servants who accompanied him maintained their usual respectful distance, though several cast discreet glances at the broken and burned necklace now tucked safely within the folds of his sleeve.
By the time he crossed into his residence courtyard, the atmosphere had shifted.
He was not alone.
"Mother."
Tai Yang stepped forward first.
Behind him stood Tai Xing, posture straighter than usual, expression arranged into something almost disciplined.
The Empress paused.
For a brief moment, something warm and unguarded brightened his face.
"You're both here."
There was no royal restraint in his tone... only genuine happiness.
