Zhao’s invitation arrived in a folded envelope carried by an attendant from the experimental wing. He found Yan in the candidate hall, where Ning was sorting the medicine schedule Qinghe had just given her.
“Elder Zhao asks you to dine with him tonight,” the attendant said. “He sends congratulations on your advancement to Foundation Establishment. He also promises to arrange a private physician for your sister.”
Ning put the schedule down. “A clinic as a reward for Yan’s examination score?”
The attendant kept his expression neutral. “The elder’s message says he can make the physician available soon.”
Yan took the envelope but did not open it. “I’ll read it with my family.”
The attendant bowed and left. Bai came over from the supply table, wiping flour from his hands. Yan passed him the envelope and asked him to check for a hidden seal or second page.
Bai held the paper toward the window. He felt along the fold and examined the stamp. “One sheet. No concealed leaf, no second seal.”
The invitation bore Zhao’s laboratory mark and a time for the meal. It promised a private physician, but it did not say what treatment would be given or who would pay. No contract was attached.
