Who Is the Pawn? Who Is Orchestrating the Game?

The night shimmered like flowing silver light, blanketing the Immortal Palace in its gentle glow.

Yet, it could not suppress the ethereal melodies and the sounds of laughter and song drifting from the Hundred Flowers Palace.

These beautiful melodies floated through the air, falling upon Zhong Chi's ears outside the Junior Aurora Hall, and reached inside, where Xu Qing sat, listening.

Xu Qing raised his head, his gaze settling on the figure standing just beyond the hall's entrance.

"Zhong Chi is acting a little strange…"

A hint of contemplation appeared in Xu Qing's eyes.

Normally, this study companion would leave once night fell, unless specifically instructed otherwise. It was rare for him to stay so late without being asked, which made tonight's behavior unusual.

Xu Qing took out a chessboard and calmly spoke.

"Zhong Chi."