Kapitel 23: Nightly Adventures

(The following chapter contains scenes not for children. If content of this kind offends you, please skip the chapter after the Prince carries Ling to his bedroom.)

I waited until the house went completely quiet before standing up and walking to the door.

I couldn’t feel anyone’s presence, but that didn’t mean there could be anyone keeping watch beyond the limit of my perception. I remained unmoving for a full minute, concentrating on my senses until I could pinpoint every single guard and servant on the grounds. I took my time to learn their patterns, and when I was sure that I wouldn’t be caught, I cautiously stepped outside the room. Opening and closing the door in complete silence.

I went first to see Fa Min, who was snoring loudly. I knelt beside his bed while I entered the meditative state I had used to perceive the poison. Once I felt ready, I transferred my awareness to Min’s body, and sure enough, found the same substance polluting his Chi.