nearby buildings, carrying laundry and small supply bags.
The sight made the whole city feel less dead.
Yan Cijin looked around.
"It looks almost peaceful."
"Don't say that."
"Why?"
"Because every time someone says the word peaceful, something attacks
us."
Yan Cijin laughed.
"Fine. It looks suspiciously quiet."
"Much better."
They passed a group of survivors standing near a barricade.
One recognized Bai Li immediately.
"They're back!"
Another person looked up.
"Bai Li! Yan Cijin!"
A few people waved.
Bai Li raised one hand from the handlebar.
Yan Cijin waved too.
They did not stop.
The motorcycle rolled farther into the courtyard road.
The building entrance was ahead.
Bai Li finally brought the Ninja 400 to a smooth stop near the usual
spot.
The engine idled for several seconds.
Then she switched it off.
Silence.
The two women sat there for a moment.
Neither moved immediately.
It was strange how quickly the noise of the road had become distant.
