The following afternoon, a bird's shadow flew into the courtyard of Gu Ning's hotel room.
Philinos, lying beside Gu Ning with his sword in his arms, sensed the movement and opened his eyes. All trace of sleepiness vanished as he instantly became combat-ready.
Recognizing Ah Mo's scent, he relaxed his tense posture slightly.
After a glance out the window, Philinos's gaze fell upon the mound of blankets in the middle of the bed.
'Ning is still asleep.'
"CHIRP." Ah Mo made a small sound in the courtyard.
Philinos frowned, rolling gracefully to his feet and padding silently into the courtyard.
"What is it?" he asked, standing on the steps and looking at Ah Mo.
Ah Mo sized him up, looking him over from top to bottom. The young bird looked the same as always, but there were subtle changes.
He was a little more relaxed, his complexion rosier, and he carried the scent of Little Gu Ning. 'Looks like the young bird finally managed to give himself to her last night,' Ah Mo thought.
