Woman in the Wind

No matter what had happened before, the sun rose as usual on a new day.

Chang Nian sat up in bed, her gaze unfocused. She looked at the empty pillow beside her, and awareness gradually returned to her eyes.

Last night, she had gone to the World Heritage Museum again to visit Tong Guan.

But the Supernatural Location had been sealed off, and the statue on its door had disappeared after the last rescue attempt.

She had returned late yet woken early, sleeping only four hours. Perhaps that was why her mind felt so foggy.

Chang Nian got out of bed, straightened the covers, picked up the comb on the table, and began brushing her hair.

The dressing mirror reflected a haggard face, pale and drained of color, even at the lips.

Her head ached and her limbs were sore. Her gaze drifted across the mirror, where everything seemed faintly doubled.

It was as though two Chang Nians stood in the reflection.

The doorbell rang.

Chang Nian stood frozen for a moment before remembering what she was supposed to do today.

When she and Ji Li had parted last night, they had agreed to leave at five this morning.

It was already 5:05.

Chang Nian walked unsteadily to the door and opened it. Ji Li stood outside, fully dressed, looking at her without expression.

"Pull yourself together. We're leaving soon."

A veteran who had survived multiple missions had not only lost track of time but had forgotten the plan entirely.

Chang Nian rubbed her forehead and went to the bathroom to wash up.

Cold water splashed against her face, jolting her frayed nerves. Only then did she feel a little better.

A few minutes later, she gathered her equipment and came downstairs. Ji Li stood straight-backed, smoking.

"What are we