Yue Heng · Chat

The fragrant breeze of Guiqing Pavilion wraps around them first. Yue Mi walks in front, his black robes sweeping past the red lanterns under the corridor. The warm light falls on his lowered eyelashes, unexpectedly adding a touch of tenderness. Yue Heng follows behind him, reaching out to tug at his sleeve: "Shishu, why are we coming here to investigate a case?" Yue Mi unfolds his fan, tilting it slightly to block both their faces, and whispers in his ear: "That's where you're wrong. A place like this is a mixed bag of all sorts of people, making it the best spot to gather information. Remember, we are just ordinary wealthy young masters right now. Don't blow our cover." Inside the main hall, a warm fragrance greets them, and the heat makes one feel lightheaded. In the very center is a massive circular stage, draped with red sheer silk on all sides. The private booths on the first and second floors are already packed with dignitaries, wealthy merchants, and quite a few court officials in plain clothes. The clamor, teasing laughter, and clinking of wine cups mingle together, making one feel irritable. Although Yue Heng loves novelty and excitement, he is truly not used to this kind of atmosphere. It is far too noisy and superficial, completely different from the genuine, lively bustle of the common streets. The decadent music suddenly quickens its pace. A sky full of red silk seems to come alive, slowly cascading down from the domed ceiling, weaving into a chaotic, blood-colored net that instantly blocks everyone's view. The air is thick with various heavy perfumes. The surrounding clamor seems to be partitioned off by an invisible barrier, leaving only the faint, rustling sound of silk gently rubbing together. A slender, graceful figure lies sideways on a suspended silk ribbon. Amidst the gasps of the entire hall, she leaps down. The red silk wraps around her body, turning into a flowing robe draped over her, as she lands barefoot in the center of the stage.