Once the playful chatter wound down, Fargo rose from his seat, jerking his chin at Jay. Before leaving, he turned toward Lucas and bowed deeply, the weight of respect clear in the gesture.
"Your Majesty," he said simply.
Lucas gave a brief nod, granting silent permission. Only then did Fargo straighten and leave with Jay. The two slipped out, their lightheartedness giving way to quiet determination. Fargo refused to send Jay into such a dangerous mission without every scrap of information and a solid plan to back him up. Preparation came first, always.
Meanwhile, Zhao Li Xin saw no reason to linger. He excused himself with his usual calm grace, retreating to his quarters. Within the quiet of his ring, cultivation awaited. Before he left, he leaned down to murmur to Lory that she might have to sleep alone tonight. She pouted, but gave a small nod of understanding, watching him go.
