Their eyes met in the dim light, shadows casting an ominous veil over Qiao Cong's aged face. No light was lit in the room, and the expression on Gu Ling's face was devoid of warmth.
The atmosphere was tense for a moment, and Qiao Cong's hand twitched slightly.
The next moment, Gu Ling's lips parted slightly, "I have something to take care of."
Qiao Cong's eyes narrowed, anger in his voice, "Are you actually not going?"
Before he could finish speaking, Gu Ling had taken the letter and walked out of the room, avoiding Qiao Cong's hand that tried to grab his shoulder, "Wait a moment for me."
Qiao Cong watched as Gu Ling disappeared from his line of sight, snorted coldly, "Just one moment. If you're late, I'll head back and let Su Liang leave you behind!"
...
Nighttime fell, and the small courtyard became quiet and serene.
Qiao Cong sat in the courtyard with his package, long sword, and straw hat by his side, ready to leave at any moment.