Morning arrived in a sky covered by thick gray clouds. Snow drifted gently across the cold mountains as the Supreme Citadel slowly came to life.
Inside the palace, Lin Wan had just finished her breakfast when Sister Yun entered the room with a warm cloak folded over her arm.
"Lady Lin," Sister Yun called out softly.
Lin Wan looked up from the book she had been pretending to read. "Sister Yun?"
"The weather is quite calm today," the older woman noted.
Lin Wan smiled faintly. "So can I go walk in the garden again?"
Sister Yun nodded with a smile. "If you are willing, of course."
Lin Wan immediately stood up from her seat. "I have been ready to go out since yesterday."
The older woman laughed softly. "I know you have."
One of the younger maids, Lian, hurried forward to help Lin Wan put on the thick cloak. "You should wear this extra layer, Lady Lin. The wind is a bit stronger today."
