Chapter 12: Shadows of the Phoenix
Mei Xiao swallowed hard, her mind racing. "Knows what?" she demanded, stepping closer.
Murong Jing He's gaze hardened. "The secret of the Phoenix Bloodline — something the clan has guarded for centuries."
She glanced toward the scorched sigil, barely visible against the stone wall. "And if outsiders discover it?"
"Chaos. War. The clan's destruction."
A cold wind swept through the courtyard, lifting Mei Xiao's dark hair. She felt an odd mix of fear and excitement. This was no longer just about survival — it was about something far bigger.
"Then we need to find who did this. Before they come again."
He nodded grimly. "I will call the guards. But you must be careful. They suspect the new Madam is weak."
"Good. Let them underestimate me." Mei Xiao smiled, the bruises on her arms forgotten for a moment.
As they moved back toward the manor, she thought about Mei Lin — the obedient, silent girl she once was supposed to be. She was gone now.
It was time to dance with danger.