CHAPTER 6: A VARIATION IN THE NIGHT

1. HONG CHEN PASSAGE

In a secluded corner of Chang Le District, where narrow streets twisted like a labyrinth, crimson lanterns cast shimmering reflections on the misty glass windows of tea houses and taverns. The air carried the rich scent of strong liquor, mingling with the dampness of the evening rain.

Inside Qing Yun Pavilion, one of the most renowned establishments in the area, the sound of a guzheng resonated—clear and melodious, yet tinged with an unspoken sorrow. Beneath the flickering lantern light, a young woman dressed in crimson robes leaned against the window frame, her fingers gracefully plucking the strings while her gaze wandered toward the bustling streets outside.

Her name was Mo Yan, a celebrated musician, though few knew she also served as an informant for the Black Lotus Society. Every melody she played was more than mere entertainment—it was a coded message, a whisper in the underbelly of the city.

2. UNDERCURRENTS

Xuan Xingli stepped into Qing Yun Pavilion. She was not clad in her usual black-and-silver attire but had instead chosen something simpler. Her long hair cascaded down, obscuring much of her face, yet the aura she exuded still made heads turn in quiet intrigue.

[Scanning the environment…]

[No immediate threats detected.]

A hostess approached with a polite smile. "What may I serve you, honored guest?"

"A pot of Tian Mu Spring and a seat by the window."

The hostess nodded and swiftly departed. From the corner of the room, Mo Yan's fingers subtly altered the rhythm of her music—a slight variation, an encoded signal.

In response, a shadowy figure quietly slipped away from the premises.

3. A SILENT MEETING

Mo Yan set her guzheng aside and approached Xuan Xingli with unhurried steps. "A traveler from afar?"

Xuan Xingli lifted her cup, watching the liquid swirl under the lantern light before answering, "Just passing through."

Mo Yan smiled faintly. "Chang Le is a place where fate flows like an untamed river. Some find their way, while others vanish forever."

"What do you wish to ask me?" Xuan Xingli placed her cup down, her crimson gaze steady.

Mo Yan lowered her voice. "Recently, someone has been searching for a woman matching your description. The Faceless Organization has taken interest."

Xuan Xingli's expression darkened slightly. "They already know of me?"

"Only rumors, for now. But when the Faceless Organization takes notice of someone, escape becomes… difficult." Mo Yan sighed. "If you wish to disappear, this may be your last chance."

"I'm not interested in running."

Mo Yan studied her for a moment before chuckling. "Then prepare yourself. A greater game is about to unfold."

4. THE SHADOWS STIR

Outside, the lanterns swayed in the night breeze, resembling watchful crimson eyes awaiting the curtain to rise on an impending drama.

Behind Qing Yun Pavilion, a cloaked figure silently departed, merging into the darkness of Chang Le. He navigated through the narrow alleys with feline grace, his fingers gripping a small parchment. The inked words upon it were brief but decisive.

["The target has surfaced."]

He halted before an old wooden door, knocking thrice in a deliberate rhythm. A sliver of light gleamed from within before the door creaked open, revealing a dimly lit chamber scented with burning incense.

Inside, a man garbed in black sat motionless, his gaze sharp and calculating as he examined the message laid before him.

"Xuan Xingli... At last, she reveals herself," he murmured, amusement laced in his voice.

Back in Qing Yun Pavilion, Xuan Xingli had already sensed she was being watched. Pouring herself another cup, her gaze drifted toward Mo Yan's guzheng.

"Do you believe in the variations of fate?" she mused.

Mo Yan smiled. "I believe in the musician more than fate itself. A melody can change depending on the hands that play it. Fate, too, bends to its wielder."

Xuan Xingli tilted her head slightly. "Then let's see who holds the tune tonight."

Beyond the window, the distant chime of a midnight bell echoed. A cold gust swept through the streets, carrying the scent of looming danger.