The following morning began differently from all the rest.
Lin Wan woke well before dawn, while the cold sky outside was still a pale, bruised dark blue.
Her very first thought was the mysterious black cat that had guarded her bed.
She turned her head toward the wooden chair beside the bed frame.
It was completely empty, the cushion smooth and cold.
She frowned, pulling herself up slightly against the pillows.
"You left without even saying goodbye again."
Sister Yun entered the chamber a moment later, carrying a heavy stack of fresh, light cotton clothes and a porcelain bowl of steaming hot water.
"Who are you talking to so early in the morning, My Lady?"
Lin Wan quickly looked around the empty, shadowy room.
"No one."
Sister Yun gave her a sharp, suspicious look as she set the warm water on the washstand with a clatter.
Lin Wan offered her a completely innocent, bright smile.
"Really. Just talking to myself to wake my brain up."
