The Crown Prince's study was as pristine as ever.
Not a scroll out of place, not a drop of ink smeared. Every paper was stacked by category, sealed in order of urgency, and tied with colored cords. The scent of tea leaves still lingered faintly in the air, though the pot on the brazier hadn't been touched since it was steeped over an hour ago.
Zhu Mingyu sat behind his desk like a man carved from jade—expression unreadable, hands folded loosely before him, sleeves crisp and immaculate. He did not rise when Shi Yaozu entered. He didn't need to.
"Close the door," came the soft command.
Shi Yaozu obeyed. The latch clicked shut behind him.
There was a pause.
The Crown Prince tapped his fingers against the wood once before speaking.
"You've been stationed at her side for two days now," he said calmly. Shi Yaozu nodded once. "Report," snapped Zhu Mingyu when Shi Yaozu didn't say anything.
