"Ah-Ying," she said quietly, "if anyone asks anything concerning me, you saw nothing tonight. You know nothing. Do you understand?"
The girl nodded quickly understanding. "Yes, Miss. I… I understand."
"Good." Yueshuang carefully refolded the cloth and tucked it into her own sleeve. "You should go. Get some rest."
Ah-Ying bowed and slipped out as silently as she'd come.
Alone again, Yueshuang stood and moved to the window. The courtyard below was lit by torches, and guards patrolled in pairs. She could see the dark stains on the stones where Lian had fallen, where she had knelt beside him and felt her world fracture.
Her reflection stared back at her from the glass, pale and hollow-eyed, wearing the face of a sheltered girl who should know nothing of bonds and ancient powers, and the terrible weight of a love that could destroy her.
But behind that face, her mind was already turning, and planning.
She needed information. Maps, trade routes, and safe houses.
