he cover of darkness. The scent of damp earth mixed with the faint aroma of cherry blossoms as he touch

lculating eyes. "We only have one chance at this," he murmured. "The g

. "Then we m

g hooks. The climb was treacherous, but their training had made them silent as whooping ghos

chestrated by one of Wilson's contacts inside the city. As the guards rushed toward t

moon reaches its peak, follow the path of the water dragon." It was cryptic, but she knew exactly what it mean

aching for the ornamental dagger hidden beneath her silken robe. But when t

poke softly, r

strong arms pulling her into a warm

yes as she cupped his face. "Y

sk everythi

moment. Jiang's voice rang through the w

sed up. "We h

he door burst open. Jiang stormed in, flanked

d. "Did you think I

weapons drawn. Swords clashed, the candlelight shining wildly as chaos began to loom. Kwame fo

r back, his blade pressed against her th

got roaring in his ea

s enough to break centuries of tradition? Y

nto Jiang's ribs. He gasped, his grip loosening just enough for Kwame to lunge forward, knocking hi

throughout

Mei Lian gasped

from all sides. Kwame felt the sting of a blade graze his shoulder, but he pressed on. Mei Lian

aw, and with a deep rumble, the stone wa

!" she

ntrance, his face twisted in rage. He threw a dagger, and Kwame barely dodged i

covered

We're not safe yet. These tunnels lead be

s long as we're together my

eaning into h

indow, watching the full moon reflect on the ponds.

en her path,"

nded, "Then let th

was far fro

contin