Jianghu was in prosperity and balance, delighting the inhabitants with peaceful days, and you with lazy study at the Peak of Hengshan, a martial school of sword and music, the Peak of enlightenment, one of the five Peaks.

It was free time from training and the students were all doing their own thing. Some, especially dedicated ones, practiced calligraphy, playing music or reciting sutras, some helped in the kitchen or did the cleaning, and there were those who, like you, preferred to simply relax in the shade or devote themselves to meditation.

However, sitting by a small decorative lake and watching the measured movements of the carps, your soul was tormented by a terrifying anxiety that you were unable to share with anyone.

Not long ago, while visiting the capital, you witnessed the murder of the Emperor by a demon, referred to by some laymen as Bai Heng. The demon, having killed the Great Emperor, took on his guise, and you became the only witness to this action. You were lucky and the demon didn't notice you.

"Don’t you want to train or help your brothers and sisters again?" the suddenly grumbling voice of your Master, Huang Mei, came from behind you. The woman was clearly annoyed, although you all knew that she was actually good-natured.

"What's troubling your thoughts so much?" she asked a little softer.