It was a little after sunset and the Thousand Flavors Restaurant was bustling with activity as always. By the time Yang Qing arrived, almost all the tables were taken, his favorite spot notwithstanding. There were a few young outer core court judges who had already made themselves comfortable at the table as they enthusiastically exchanged laughs and conversation over an array of flavorful dishes and wine.
"Maybe I should just have it to go. Dai, Qingge, and Huifeng are not here too.." Yang Qing thought to himself as he surveyed the floor for any familiar figures.
