responded to one another with a sudden clarity that neither expected. The faint currents gathered into a single point. For an instant, the sanctuary seemed to vanish around them.
They saw a peak that neither recognized. It stood beneath a dark sky scattered with unfamiliar stars, its summit rising above a sea of clouds. A magnificent gate hung in the air beyond it, built from pale stone and glowing lines that reminded Bai Li of the pathways of sword intent. Yan Cijin saw the same gate, but she also saw a long stairway running toward it, the steps disappearing into light. The scene was so clear that she could almost feel the cold air against her face.
Then the vision vanished.
Bai Li lowered her hand. Yan Cijin's fingers remained linked with hers. The elders had seen the energy around the bell brighten, but none had seen the image. They watched the Matriarchs with open concern, waiting for an explanation neither woman could yet give.
"What did you see?" Lu Wenshu asked.
