Yun Ling halted, her breath catching as if a colossal stone had plummeted into the depths of her heart. She turned her head, eyes widening. Tears welled up, poised to spill, yet they remained suspended.
"Ah Xian," she called out.
Ah Xian seized her hand with urgency, pulling her into the Yun Palace. The opulent room enveloped them, its walls adorned with rich tapestries and silk curtains in deep blue and gold. Intricately carved wooden furniture, embellished with mother-of-pearl inlays, graced the space.
Against the wall, Yun Ling stood, and Ah Xian positioned himself before her.
"You've returned?" Yun Ling inquired.
"Hm," Ah Xian replied, his eyes brimming with unshed tears.
"How long has it been?" Yun Ling pressed.
"I apologize. I couldn't arrive in time and had to loyal to His Majesty," Ah Xian confessed.
"Hmph! Thank you for your tardy return, but does that mean the seal is broken? Is he free?" Yun Ling challenged.