Fic Update Thread: 56th edition

[Mamorien]

Threads of Destiny (the other OEX meat) 424-Shenglu 3.

Lin Hai slid from his horse(')s back to land gracefully before her, sketching a small bow. "I do apologize for the sudden arrival, Lady Ling, but I was quite certain you would want my delivery as soon as possible."

"I understand, and thank you for your speed. Why did you not fly?"

"Because my friend here has not gotten out in ages." Lin Hai stroked his stallion’s mane, and the stallion tossed his head proudly. "And also, I knew from Lady Cai's missives that you are beginning some spiritually delicate work. I did not want to cause any disruption."

An indigo realm flying toward Shenglu at full speed would disrupt the preparations for the lake ceremony going on.

"I thank you for your consideration as well," Ling Qi said. Despite herself, she was feeling antsy. Her dress. This delivery could only be her dress, right? "Would you like to come inside?"

"Please." Lin Hai inclined his head. "After all, I suspect you will want a room to change in once I have made my delivery."

Ling Qi supposed that her excitement, to her tailor, could only be obvious.

"Yes. Please, let’s go inside. I will call for some refreshments, and then you can make your delivery," Ling Qi said sheepishly, turning and beckoning for him to follow. "Welcome to Shenglu, Sir Lin. I hope life at the sect has been well…"

Small talk established, she led their guest through the town and into the manor. She might have walked a touch faster than was polite.

Soon, Lin Hai was ensconced in the dining hall and served their best tea and light refreshments. Indulgently, he had handed over a simple, silver chased, dark wooden box a few handspans wide and smiled as she rushed from the room for the privacy of the chambers Cai Renxiang had granted her, the box clasped to her chest. She would apologize to the servants and bureaucrats she had startled in her wraithlike rush through the walls and floors later.

https://www.royalroad.com/fiction/21188/...-shenglu-3

EDIT: "Apologies! Something strange happened with the order of the posted chapters 424 and 425 have been reposted and should read properly now"