The road leaving the capital curved gradually upward toward the hill.
Behind them, the city still rang with celebration. Drums rolled across rooftops, and the distant echo of horns drifted through the afternoon air. From this distance, however, the noise softened into something indistinct...like waves breaking far away.
Jin Yue walked ahead along the stone path without hurry.
The slope was gentle but steady, winding between tall cypress trees and pale gray boulders worn smooth by centuries of wind. From time to time the branches parted enough to reveal glimpses of the capital below. The rooftops shimmered beneath hanging lanterns, red banners moving slowly in the breeze.
Jun Kai walked half a step behind him.
His gaze moved often...not across the view, but toward the quiet figure in front of him.
Jin Yue had not spoken much since they left the river.
