For an instant, a sealed cavern became visible to spiritual perception. At its center lay an old stone platform surrounded by twelve sword-shaped pillars. A narrow path stretched beyond it, leading toward a vast chamber whose ceiling resembled a night sky.
On the stone platform, an inscription appeared. It was not a prophecy. It was a direction.
"The Moon-Mirror Cave awaits those who stand at the end of the mortal road."
The inscription shone once and then went dark.
In the residence below, Yan Cijin opened her eyes. She had felt the change before the light disappeared. Bai Li was already awake, watching her. They looked at one another, and neither needed to ask whether the other had sensed the disturbance.
Yan Cijin smiled faintly. "It seems our day will begin earlier than expected."
Bai Li drew her close and kissed her forehead. "Then let the heavens wait until breakfast."
Yan Cijin laughed into her shoulder.
