The courtyard was nearly empty when the official courier arrived. A narrow red seal crossed the envelope in his hands. Luo asked him to stop at the entry table while Tao checked the seal against the court register.
“It is from the Heaven Registrar office,” the courier said. “For Shen Yan. It requests his attendance at a review in the capital.”
Yan stepped closer but did not touch the envelope. “What does the review concern?”
“The Ashfall examination records. The office also offers a travel stipend and access to a medical institute for your sister’s evaluation.”
Ning looked from the courier to the sealed letter. “Does the institute choose the physician?”
“The invitation says you may request an independent evaluation. It does not guarantee a specific treatment.”
“May I read the terms before we agree to travel?”
“Yes. The full terms are in the envelope.”
