53 Boluo’s Challenge

Wuyi left Boluo's loft, grabbed food from the kitchen — avoiding the dining hall — and retreated to his room. It was cold, dark, and reeked of fouled reeds. He lit a fire and a lamp, then scrubbed the room with hot water and tarragon-flavored vinegar. The room smelled of the herb when he was done. Exhausted, he collapsed on his bed, pondering which one was the hidden door to Chao's quarters now that he was a Qi initiate — he could figure it out. Then he decided not to bother — he knew Chao would visit when he wanted to; before that, he could not contact him unless Chao desired it.

But that same night, he was jolted awake by the sight of Chao's face, illuminated by lamplight. "You've just enough time to wash and eat before heading to the tower top," Chao said, setting down a kettle of warm water and fresh buns he had from the kitchen.

"I'm not going," Wuyi declared, surprising even himself that he was going to defy both his guardians.