The sun had long since dipped below the horizon when Gang Xing burst through the Golden Blade Palace gates. His heavy breathing and thundering footsteps echoed through the empty courtyard where protesters had stood mere hours ago. Sweat dripped from his round face despite the cool evening air.
Whispers of an assassination attempt on Lady Jiao had spread through the city's tea houses and markets. Tales of the sect leader pursuing a mysterious figure across rooftops circulated among merchants and guards alike. Gang Xing's thick fingers clenched into fists as he cursed under his breath - for all his connections in the Tomb Raiders Guild, he'd been the last to learn of the threat to his half-sister's life.
Two stern-faced guards crossed their spears at the entrance to the main chamber. "The Lady is not receiving visitors at this hour."
"Out of my way," Gang Xing growled, his bulk filling the doorframe.