It takes a few weeks, and yet somehow it feels as though it all happens at once. Huaisang communicates back ideas, arranging to have the coffin trapped with poisons and preparing an ambush.

He leaves Jin Guangyao in Jiang Cheng's custody while everything unravels. There's still much to do, ending the war and transitioning the Jin Sect into Jin Rulan's teenage hands. For now, at least, he can simply... rest.

Meeting Doul in the library, Huaisang risks a shy little smile. He's not quite sure whether he wants to tackle him with a hug or if he should keep all of this professional.

To begin with, he has a jar of Qinghe honey wine and a platter of roasted meats and vegetables, a feast just for them. "You helped make this happen. You deserve a reward."