Ling Qingyu reclined gracefully in a shaded courtyard, a tray of tea steaming softly on the low table between her and Gu Yi. Both women seemed at ease on the cushioned recliners, though the tranquil setting belied the depth of their conversation.
Gu Yi sipped her tea slowly, her sharp eyes appraising Ling Qingyu over the rim of her cup. "You seem more composed than I expected, Qingyu. Given recent events, many would be rattled, and more is likely to erupt very soon."
Ling Qingyu's lips curved into a faint smile, her gaze drifting momentarily to the rustling leaves of the trees that enclosed them. "Composure, Mother, is often the deciding factor in battles of both words and weapons."
Gu Yi chuckled, setting her cup down with deliberate care. The maids outside of hearing range were watching the duo's activity. Once both of them were about to empty their cups, they were ready to refill them—the moment they received Ling Qingyu's signal, of course.
