Behind Osmanthus Fragrance Studio, the scent of tea had faded, leaving only the grim air of clashing steel and galloping warhorses.
Li Tingyun rolled up the bright-yellow writ bearing the character "Kill" and tucked it close to his body. His gaze swept across everyone's faces before settling on the calendar hanging on the wall.
"February fifteenth is a good day. Auspicious for breaking ground, laying the dead to rest, and driving out evil."
Li Tingyun did not raise his voice, yet it carried the steady weight of a pillar pinning the sea in place. "We'll gather at Heaven-Reaching Gate, at the foot of Bell Mountain. It's the only way into the mountain, and the terrain is treacherous. Perfect for setting a trap."
"Good. That settles it."
Third Master Cao nodded. Though his walnuts were gone, his fingers still rubbed together out of habit, and a cold glint flashed in his eyes.
Lu Xingmin tapped out his pipe and looked at Qin Geng. "Xiao Wu, if Abacus Song sends you any new word, true or false, tell us at once. The old bastard may have come over to our side, but he's soaked in the Dragon King Society's dye vat for years. He's got plenty of tricks up his sleeve. We need to watch out for him betting on both sides."
"Don't worry, Senior Brother Lu."
Qin Geng spoke gravely. "I've kept an eye on things over there. At the slightest stir, I'll let everyone know."
"And your aunt," Lu Xingmin added. "I've sent a few capable men to keep watch around the Su Residence day and night. Focus on preparing for the fight these next few days. Don't let anything distract you."
"Thank you, Seventh Senior Brother."
Qin Geng clasped his fists, his mind settling at last.
With his senior