The little blue bird flew higher and higher, disappearing beyond the towering walls of the Supreme Citadel. No one noticed it, not even the Shadow Guards. It was an ordinary spirit messenger, one of countless birds that traveled freely between the mountains every day. Only its destination was anything but ordinary.
Back in the western gardens, Lin Wan slowly stood up from the lakeside. The cold stone had numbed her legs, causing one of the younger Shadow Guards to step forward instinctively. "Lady, the ground is slippery."
Lin Wan looked at him in surprise, and the young guard quickly lowered his head. "I only meant that you should be careful."
She gave him a small nod. "Thank you."
The guard blinked, having not expected an answer. He hurried back into formation, his ears turning slightly red beneath his helmet while the other guards exchanged silent glances.
