It was just past midnight.
The sudden arrival of troops had left the once-peaceful Baisu Town in shambles. Only large patrols of soldiers remained in the streets and alleys, while martial artists who had failed to escape crouched on the ground with their hands bound, waiting to be questioned.
A great fire had broken out in Moon-Bearing Alley. The estates of the three great Lineages had been secured, and all the remaining disciples of Moon-Bearing Pavilion had been gathered in a large courtyard under guard.
Under the threat of armed troops, Baisu Town's common folk had put themselves under curfew, shutting their doors and windows and staying home. Apart from a few barking dogs, not a sound could be heard.
At an inn on the edge of town, Ye Jingtang used his Black Bureau badge to send away the soldiers who had come to search the premises. After shutting the inn's front door, he went upstairs.
The sudden outbreak of fighting had sent even the innkeeper fleeing. The little inn stood deserted, without a soul inside.
Ye Jingtang entered a room upstairs and appeared at the window, gazing toward the distant hills while listening to the sounds from the room next door.
The neighboring room was much busier. Several candles stood on the table, illuminating every corner.
Dressed in a snow-white gown, Perfected Person Xuanji lay facedown on the bed, her cheek against the pillow and her face turned outward. Her closed eyes looked peaceful and gentle, her cheeks slightly flushed. She lay completely still.
Luo Ning wore a constable's robe with her face thoroughly covered. Sitting beside her, she carefully checked her pulse, clear distress and concern in her eyes.
Pei Xiangjun had not concealed her face. She carried in a basin of hot water, set it beside the