Chapter 9 - A Swift Departure.

Ying Lan rose with the first light of dawn, eager to slip away before the Marquess and his followers stirred from their beds. She thanked old physician Lin and his wife for their generosity and bade them farewell.

She led her horse out of the village and reached the main road, which was worn by the passage of countless travelers. She swung her leg over the saddle and settled into a comfortable position. She urged the horse into a swift run, leaving behind a trail of dust and a fading village.

She relaxed her pace when she was sure that it would be impossible for the Marquess's procession to catch up with her. She felt the cool breeze caress her face and watched the sun climb over the horizon, bathing the land in a warm glow.

She hoped to reach the river by midday and return before dusk. She would lodge in the same village again, but this time she would enjoy the comforts of the inn and a hot bath. The Marquess and his people would be gone by then, and she would have nothing to fear.