The sun had softened by the time they stepped out onto the main road again. The afternoon heat was still thick, but the shadows were longer now, giving the streets a little breath. The Empress walked beside Yao Qing, the twins skipping in small excited circles ahead of them, while Wei Jie followed behind, steady and silent as always.
But the Empress's mind was somewhere else entirely.
Her brows were slightly furrowed.
Not at Yao Qing's ramblings…
Not at the crowded street…
Not even at the fact she was walking openly, dressed like a normal town girl while the palace believed she was dying.
No.
Her worry was about her ghosts.
Li Shen. Wei Rong. Fen Yu.
Usually, they were beside her constantly—arguing, teasing, fighting, complaining, giving advice, or scolding her for doing something risky.
But since morning…
Not a glimpse.
Not even a whisper.
Her steps slowed unconsciously.
