Bab 118: A Tempting Offer

Another night descended upon Shenci Island, dragging the temperature low and awakening the crickets which filled the air with loud buzzing noises. Occasionally, thunder rumbled in the far distance and dark clouds loomed ominously across the sky, foretelling an impending rain. 

Unlike the shore area down below where the villagers were bustling about to prepare the funeral rites, the solitary cottage atop the hill was shrouded in a tense, anticipatory silence. 

Blazing flames danced in the fireplace, casting a warm glow that illuminated the dark house. All the furniture had been pushed aside, leaving an open space in the middle with only a pair of chairs.