The atmosphere inside Lotus Pavilion was quite eerie. The doors and windows were covered with paper spells, and incense ash littered the floor. A cold breeze blew some fallen leaves into the courtyard, intensifying the ominous, cold mood.
Xie Ying's bedchamber smelt strongly of herbal medicine. The moment Ji Yuxian stepped through the door, he heard Xie Ying's weak coughing.
Ji Yuxian pushed aside the drapes and entered the inner chamber. He sat down on the edge of the bed and spoke gently. "Ying'er?"
Xie Ying slowly turned her head. She looked much thinner. Days had passed, but the imprint of Su Jiu's hand could still be seen clearly on her left cheek. Her face, usually radiantly beautiful, looked more delicate than usual in her fragile state. Her eyes filled with tears the moment she saw Ji Yuxian. Teardrops rolled down her face pitifully.
"Young Master, you've finally come to see me!"
