Lin Wan forced herself to turn away from the northern sky, taking a deep breath as she resumed her slow, painful walk toward the warmth of the palace.
High above them, perched quietly on the cold stone edge of the grand palace roof, the small black cat sat watching the entire scene.
Its bright golden eyes followed Lin Wan's moving figure until she completely disappeared through the grand wooden doors of the eastern wing.
Then, the small creature slowly turned its head to face the northern sky.
For the very first time since it had appeared at the Citadel, its sleek black fur stood slightly on end, and a low, silent hiss escaped its small throat.
Inside the main bedchamber of the eastern wing, Physician Alaric was already waiting beside the large, padded daybed, his sleeves rolled up, his medicine boxes fully opened and organized.
"Lay down flat, My Lady," Alaric commanded gently, assisting Sister Yun as they helped Lin Wan ease her heavy body onto the warm mattress.
