reserved for rainshadowck
Kneeling upon a flattened cushion, Lan Bao let the sounds of the garden wash over her as she meditated. She pushed out the sound of traffic and their irate drivers honking for other people to get out of the way, she cast away the chatter of humans outside the walls and focussed only on what lay in it. The sighing of trees, the rustle of leaves, the patter of insects, the whistle of birds and the soft lapping of water. She smelled the vibrance of nature around her in the open shelter - four pillars and a roof. After a moment she heard the soft steps of Wang Qui Min, who bore a tray with a teapot and two steaming cups.
Leave it, Bao instructed, watching as Qui Min set it down carefully before moving away, though at the door she cast a curious gaze back.
Will you call for me when he comes?
No, I will pour the tea. Go, find your brother. Bao sent, her eyes still closed.
He will not know the respect you offer him, Qui Min said, sending a tendril of regret and a request for forgiveness for speaking after having been dismissed.
Perhaps not, but I will know it, Bao sent sharply, a frown upon her brow. Qui Min bowed and left Lan Bao before she risked insulting her again. She still had the matter of discovering where her brother had disappeared to, and if he needed help. His thoughts were garbled, like he'd consumed alcoholic blood. It would be the second night he stayed away from the family unit and it was bringing attention and shame to them. She had to find him, fast.
Qui Min was approaching the front gate when she felt his presence - the powerful shadow demon who had been asked to visit. His punctuality would be noticed and regarded as respectful.
"Good evening," she spoke to the air, unsure if Zeus would take a form near to her, but there were shadows all around. "Lan Bao waits for you in the sanctuary. You are invited to make your way there," she said. Signposts in Mandarin and English showed the way. They did not usher their guests, trusting them to look around if they had time, or to go directly to where they were required. Their choice would tell Lan Bao much.