The figures were not human.
They were taller, thinner, and covered in dark crystal.
Bai Li's expression sharpened.
"The energy is coming from them."
The nearest creature opened its mouth.
A beam of green light formed inside.
Bai Li stopped the motorcycle.
Yan Cijin stepped off.
The creature fired.
Bai Li raised one hand.
The blast split around her.
One half struck the pavement.
The other half passed over Yan Cijin.
She did not move.
When the light disappeared, the two women stood untouched.
Yan Cijin looked at Bai Li.
"I suppose that is your idea of a warning."
Bai Li looked at the mall.
"No."
"What is it?"
"An invitation."
The mall doors opened wider.
The darkness inside seemed almost deliberate.
Bai Li got back on the motorcycle.
Yan Cijin climbed behind her.
"Then let us accept it."
Bai Li started the engine.
The Kawasaki moved forward.
Behind them, far down the avenue, a line of headlights appeared again.
The convoy had returned.
