Feng Ling's brow was deeply furrowed as she paced back and forth in the courtyard, unable to stand still. The night air seemed thick with killing intent. Tonight, Penzes New City was silent. Even the common folk knew a great upheaval was at hand.
Yisha knelt reverently in the middle of the courtyard, hands clasped as she prayed to the heavens. Watching her, Feng Ling felt her own agitation swell. She strode over and stood beside Yisha, looming over her without a word.
Though Yisha's eyes were closed, she could feel Feng Ling's gaze. She slowly opened them but remained kneeling, her voice soft. "What's wrong? Do you want to pray for Ling Xiao with me?"
"What good will praying do! Forget it… Just get up and talk to me, alright?"
Not taking no for an answer, Feng Ling grabbed Yisha's arm and pulled her to her feet. She led her under the courtyard's dense grapevines, where two simple wicker chairs sat. This small courtyard had been prepared specifically for the two of them.
