The journey from Unit Fifty to Bao Li's residence was far quieter than any of them had anticipated.
The closer they drew to their destination, the more the streets swelled with people. Ox carts loaded with fresh vegetables rolled slowly across the uneven road while merchants hurried toward the market, heavy baskets balanced on their shoulders.
Families walked together carrying brightly wrapped gifts, and groups of guests dressed in their finest silk robes laughed as they made their way toward the exact same destination.
Today was supposed to be a joyous occasion. None of the ordinary people walking those streets could have guessed that hidden among the countless servants and arriving guests were individuals preparing to bring down one of the most feared organizations in the entire Barren Lands.
