Kang the Mad laid the Marvelous Dragonfly down carefully on the same campsite that it rested twenty years ago at the edge of Tien's Landing. Kang made doubly sure to land the flyer in an area that was surrounded by trees to cover their position from anyone they did not want to detected by, most notably the Lotus Assassins. Before they exited, Dawn Star told everyone that she adopted the name Sun Wei.
"I think it fits perfectly, that you could take up that name in your mother's honor," Kin showed his approval.
"Oh, I see," Silent Star said. "So that was your mother's name?"
"What's with all the name changing all the sudden?" An irritated Sky scratched his head. "First Sing, now you, Dawn Star. Did you guys decide to give each other affectionate pet names or something?"
"None of your business, Sky!" Wei retorted. "I happened to like that name and I would appreciate it if you would call me that from now on."
Sky playfully bowed. "Alright, your highness. Whatever you say."
Wei rolled her eyes and pushed the entrance ramp open and everyone moved out. For most of them, save for Silent Star and Kin, being back in Tien's Landing brought back memories. For Silent Star, this was where the omen that marked his destiny occurred twenty years ago.
Kang was the last one to exit. He had three crystals in his hands. "Umm…before you leave, there is something I want to show you all," he said as he displayed the three green-hued crystals; each was laced in the form of a necklace.
"What is it, Kang?" Silent Star asked.
"These are special crystals, for communication purposes; 'comstals' as I proudly call them. With it, you can communicate with another who has a comstal. A transparent display of the person you are talking to will show up on the crystal. They used to only work when they are stationary and would require a pile of these to work, but I recently found a way to make them portable. I think these would come in handy during our ongoing escapades."
"I remember those!" Wei blurted out. "I saw Inquisitor Lim used one of those to communicate with Grand Inquisitor Jia years ago when we were investigating Gao the Greater's operations."
Sky cringed at the mention of Gao the Greater, the man who was responsible for the enslavement and murder of his daughter. Even though he was dead, he could never forget that name, nor could he get over the loss of his daughter. But he decided not to say anything.
"Yes, the very same device, only this is smaller," Kang replied to Wei. "These were originally essence gems which were enchanted by the best sorcerers during Emperor Sun Hai's rein. These crystals are magical and all you have to do is call another person with a comstal and it will respond. However, there is a small drawback to this miniature version: the communication can only be possible within a certain distance. If two people were too far apart, it would not work."
"Understandable," Kin said. "I have used these before when I was Death's Hand. We made sure we could communicate with Lotus Assassins stationed all over the Empire. It was a means of monitoring the Empire to ensure that the will of the Emperor could be projected everywhere he wished."
"Indeed," Kang continued. "We can use these to communicate with each other. Unfortunately I only have three. I'll stay here with the Marvelous Dragonfly so I'll keep one. Silent Star, you should have one as well. Who will have the third?"
"If no one objects, I would like the third one," Hou said. Everyone looked at him warily. "While the rest of you are in the Great Southern Forest, I would like to gather supplies in town for when we depart. Since I am not a combatant, I would be a burden to you all."
"What kind of supplies are you referring to?" Kin asked.
"Well, there is a blacksmith in Tien's Landing. I could collect weapons for you. But more importantly, I want to go to the local teahouse and stock up on wine."
"Wine? In a serious time like this, you want to relax over a bowl of wine?" Sky said in disbelief.
"Sky, don't you remember?" Hou said defensively. "I used to be the best fighter in all of Phoenix Gate, until I was married my charming wife. My style requires that I drink. If I can get enough wine, I could help you all fight. I don't have my wife to order me around any longer, so I'm a free man!"
"Well, I guess we could use the supplies," Silent Star conceded. "But be careful, the Lotus Assassins may be in town. They don't recognize you as one who opposes the Emperor, so you should be fine, just don't do anything suspicious. While you're at it, see if you can get any information as to why the Lotus Assassins are here in Tien's Landing."
"Alright, let's go then," Hou said.
Save for Kang, the group moved out. Silent Star and Hou took the comstals and placed them around their necks. The forest was silent for the most part except for the occasional chirping of birds. The Marvelous Dragonfly was lucky to have found an open space among thick canopy of trees. Wei walked beside Wild Flower.
"Wild Flower, there's something I've been meaning to ask you," Wei said.
"What is it?"
"What happened to Ya Zhen? Is he still dwelling inside you?" Wei asked.
Wild Flower blinked. "That's what I can't figure out. Since the Bureaucracy granted me life again, the Other just stopped appearing. My only guess is that they removed him. Maybe that was a way of them showing their gratitude for my services."
(I believe that possibility as well,) Chai Ka spoke from within Wild Flower. (The heavens do not forget those who come to their aid. I am delighted that Ya Zhen seems to have vanished from her body.)
Wei smiled warmly. "Well, that is wonderful news. No longer do you have to suffer from that horrible creature, Wild Flower."
They went back to walking in silence. After a while, Silent Star walked beside Wild Flower.
"You knew all along, didn't you, Wild Flower? About Master Tong being a god and my destiny?" Silent Star whispered.
Wild Flower lowered her head, then nodded slightly. "I'm sorry, Silent Star. Master Tong asked me to keep it from you until the time was right."
"But why?" Silent Star asked; there was a hint of resentment in his voice.
Wild Flower sighed. "He didn't want you to be burdened by it before you were ready. He wanted to make sure you were fully trained before you took on the task. He wished that your mind be focused and not be distracted with such thoughts of burden. But due to the circumstances, he had no choice. We were going to tell you eventually, Silent Star. We only wanted to do what was best."
"It's all right, Wild Flower. I understand now. But where do you think Master Tong is, and why would he just disappear on us like that?"
Wild Flower shrugged. "I don't know. There was much about Master Tong that even I don't know about. I am almost certain he is still alive. I guess we just have to trust that he is our master and that he will show himself when the time is right."
"I guess you're right," Silent Star conceded. "I just can't believe that out of everybody in this world, the Bureaucracy would choose such an ordinary person like me to carry out their work. It's a task that I feel is almost too much of a burden to bear. But then the Emperor did die by my hand. I suppose I should trust in the heavens."
Wild Flower placed a hand on his shoulder. "I know it must be hard for you, Silent Star. I felt the same way when the Guardian chose me to be his anchor. I was just a little girl back then and was lost in a large world. But I had the Guardian with me. The Bureaucracy made sure I was in good hands. I'm sure everything will turn out fine for you in the end."
"Yes, you're probably right," Silent Star said to his childhood friend. "So, this place is where you found me twenty years ago, Wild Flower?"
"Yes, you were just a baby when we found you," Wild Flower responded. "Your parents were already dead when we found you and the Rat Demons were about to kill you, but Master Tong and I drove them away."
"Oh," Silent Star said, looking glum. He remained quiet for the rest of the way until they reached the entrance to Tien's Landing. Even after twenty years, not much has changed. The town was still quiet and the people went about their business, though they didn't seem like happy common folk. The sea was still dry as a result of the damaged dam from many years ago. Life in Tien's Landing just looked dull.
"Well, this is my stop," Hou said. "Just reach me on the commustals if you need anything."
"Alright, take care of yourself," Kin said.
With that, Hou went his own way into town. Silent Star was in deep thought as he looked at the town. He turned to Wild Flower.
"Wild Flower, do you know if my parent are buried here?" Silent Star asked.
Wild Flower looked uncomfortable. "Well, um…I…ah, think they were buried somewhere near Tien's Landing."
Silent Star narrowed his eyes at Wild Flower; he could sense something was not right with her tone. "Really? Well, before we go to the shrine, I want to stop by Tien's Landing. I want to see their grave, you know, pay my respects."
"Um…I don't think that such a good idea," Wild Flower said hastily.
"Why not?" Silent Star raised an eyebrow
"Because…because there may be Lotus Assassins in town, and they'd recognize you." Wild Flower sputtered, grabbing Silent Star's arm.
Silent Star smiled slyly. He gently brushed off her arm. "I'll take my chances, I just want to see the parents that I never knew."
"Wait! No, Silent Star!" Wild Flower panicked.
"Wild Flower, what's wrong with you?" Wei scolded. "Silent Star simply wishes to pay respect to his parents. It's important to him."
"But…"
"What's wrong, Wild Flower?" Silent Star loomed over Wild Flower. "Is there something else that you're hiding from me?"
Wild Flower avoided his eyes. She was cornered with nothing to say anymore. Silent Star stood there for a minute, waiting if Wild Flower had any other objections. She didn't. He looked at Wei, who nodded and smiled.
"Well then, I will try to keep it short. I haven't forgotten why we are here but I just want to see my family. I'll be as quick as I can." Silent Star told the rest of them and began walking into town. He moved quickly to avoid any further objections.
Wild Flower sighed and followed the rest of the group into Tien's Landing. They walked past the small path that led them in front of the teahouse. This was where most of them met Hui the Brave who was being harassed by sailors. They stopped for a moment to look at the teahouse. People who exited tended to look drunk, though at least they looked considerably happier than the rest of the miserable faces in the town. They figured Hou was already inside stocking up his wine.
They continued walking. Dawn Star, Sky and Wild Flower failed to recognize anyone since everyone was either twenty years older or not living here anymore. Silent Star looked around for someone who looked like they may have lived in Tien's Landing for quite a long time. In short, he was looking for someone who has lived in the town for at least twenty years. He searched around through the sea of people, overlooking middle-aged peasants and children playing. Then Silent Star caught a glimpse of an old woman with a cane who was seated on a wooden chair. She looked like she was just passing time watching people pass by. The others followed closely behind as Silent Star walked towards the old lady. He gestured a bow.
"Excuse me, ma'am," Silent Star addressed politely. "May I ask you a question?"
"Certainly, child," The old woman croaked, getting up. "It is not like I have anything else better to do."
"Very well, then, how well do you know the people in this town?" Silent Star asked.
"Oh, I've lived in Tien's Landing all my life."
"Then would you happen to know the household name of Han?" Silent Star asked, hoping she would say yes.
The old woman wrinkled her forehead in deep thought. Then she relaxed her expression. "I'm sorry, but there is no one here in Tien's Landing with that surname. I've lived here all my life and people hardly move out or in. This town is small enough where everyone knows everyone else. I'm sorry, son."
Silent Star was dumbstruck. He didn't know whether to believe the old woman or take her as senile. But wasn't about to give up. He was determined to make sure.
"Wait a moment," Sun Kin whispered in Silent Star's ear. "Ask her about the falling star incident. Perhaps the town may have recovered your family's bodies but were unable to identify them because they were from out of town."
Silent Star nodded and relayed the question to the old woman. Her face lit up.
"Yes, I remember that day," the old woman replied. "There was a speeding bolt of light that fell from the sky and hit the ground. But no sound was heard. That was oddly strange. But to answer your question, we searched the area of the impact and the surrounding forests but nothing was found."
"Are you absolutely certain?" Wei pressed.
"Yes, we searched several times and found nothing."
Wei looked at Silent Star, who was equally stunned. No! There must be some mistake! My parents had to have been there. Unless…unless Wild Flower lied… Silent Star thought. But he suddenly cursed himself for thinking such a thing. He had known Wild Flower all his life and he trusted her with his life. He was sure it was just a mistake. Still, he wanted to confirm that with Wild Flower. He turned to face Wild Flower. He searched all around and among his friends with him. Wild Flower was nowhere to be seen.
"Where's Wild Flower?" Silent Star demanded to the group.
The rest of them looked frantically around them, for they had just noticed that she was missing.
"She's gone!" Sky exclaimed.
"Wait! Look!" Wei pointed off into a direction. The others looked to where she was pointing and they could see Wild Flower off in the distance. They barely caught a glimpse of her running off until she disappeared from sight into the woods. The others ran after Wild Flower.
"Wild Flower, stop!" Silent Star called out, but he knew it was futile.
"She's heading for the Great Southern Forest!" Wei shouted while running as fast as she could.
Damn it! What does she think she's doing? Silent Star thought with frustration. They worked hard to avoid any common folks as they made their way through the town and into the forest entrance. They stopped when they were well into the forest and Wild Flower was nowhere in sight. They stopped to catch their breath. The only way to go was a path that led to a flight of stone stairs at the other end of the open area.
"What…has gotten into…Wild Flower?" Wei gasped between breaths.
"I do not know, but I am certain that there is something she is hiding from us," Kin replied.
"Wild Flower," Silent Star hissed in a deadly voice. "She knows something about my parents. Why would she keep that from me?"
"Wait, Silent Star. Try talking to Kang, maybe he could fly over the forest and locate Wild Flower from above," Sky suggested.
"But what if there are Assassin patrols over the forest?" Silent Star pointed out.
Sky dismissed it with a wave. "I doubt that will be a problem. While you were talking to that woman, I overhead some people say that the Lotus Assassins all relocated to investigate the area where we were attacked. Kang should be fine."
"Alright," Silent Star grabbed the comstal necklace and spoke Kang's name. A minute later, a transparent image of Kang was visible on the crystal.
"What is it, Silent Star?" the image of Kang asked.
"Kang, we need you to fly around the Great Southern Forest. Wild Flower just ran off on her own and we can't find her," Silent Star explained hastily.
"Ran off? Why the heavens would she do that?" Kang wondered.
"I think she's hiding something from us, but for now, please find her," Silent Star said.
"Fine, if I find anything, I'll contact you," Kang responded and then his image faded.
Silent Star turned to his friends. "We should keep looking until Kang gives us an exact location on Wild Flower. Let's go!"
The four of them headed for the stone stairs and delved deeper into the forest. All around them was nothing but greenery of trees, bushes and the like. The occasional forest creatures would be seen then scurry off. For some reason, the Great Southern Forest looked more brown than green as Wei and Sky remember it.
"This forest seems like it is defiled by some great power, Sky," Wei sounded grave in her voice as the four walked through the thick forest.
"Yeah, and we all know who was responsible for this. I bet Kun must have killed the Forest Shadow in the last twenty years. The Empire has gotten a lot worse while we've been locked away," Sky added.
"Are you saying the Forest Shadow is dead?" Kin asked, shocked.
"I'm sure of it. He must have entered its heavenly realm and killed her himself," Wei replied.
"What is this Forest Shadow?" Silent Star asked with curiosity.
"The Forest Shadow was a Fox Spirit who guarded this forest. The entrance to her realm is here in the Great Southern Forest." Wei explained. "I bet Kun came here sometime during his reign and disposed of the Forest Shadow himself. Without her, this forest is susceptible to evil energy."
"Wow, I can't believe I've been so sheltered all these years from everything going on in this world," Silent Star said sheepishly.
"I'm sure that was the intent of your master," Kin offered. "It would be essential to guard you from anything that could potentially threaten your task for the Bureaucracy."
"That's right, Silent Star. They only wanted to protect you," Wei concurred with her uncle.
He narrowed his eyes at Wei. "When you say they, I assume you mean Wild Flower too? I'm sure Wild Flower knows something about Master Tong. Something that they don't want me to know about."
"Don't tell me you don't trust her now?" Wei scolded. "I've known Wild Flower for a long time and she is good person. So should you. The both of you grew up together."
Silent Star sighed. "I know, but more and more questions keep coming up and my mind is about to explode from trying to figure them out. Nothing seems to make sense."
Before anyone could say anything else, Silent Star a glow from under his nose. He looked down and saw his comstal light up. He grabbed it and Kang appeared.
"Silent Star, I've found her!" Kang beamed, he looked like he was trying to talk and fly the Dragonfly at the same time.
"Great, Kang. Where is she?" Silent Star asked.
"I spotted her in the ruins, where the gate to the heavenly realms is." Kang said.
"Okay, thanks! Just don't let her see you, we'll go apprehend her ourselves." Silent Star let his crystal drop on this chest. Since he had never been to this forest before, he had Sky lead the way to the ruins.
The four once again raced through the forest, with Sky in the front leading the way. The group took rights and lefts every so often as they navigated to a seemingly maze of a forest. Silent Star secretly prayed that nothing has happened to Wild Flower, though he was reminded that Chai Ka was with her. But he still wanted answers from her. The four ran for several more minutes before coming to a final group of steps that led up to the ruins. They slowed down and walked quietly to keep themselves from being spotted by Wild Flower. The four crept softly up the stair until they could just barely see Wild Flower from behind.
The ruins around them looked like some sort of abandoned monastery. In front of Wild Flower was an altar that had an impression of a gem, the same altar that Kun used to get into the Forest Shadow's realm. It was also the same location where Kun met the Black Whirlwind.
Concealed from sight, the four could see Wild Flower pulling out a gem of her own. She looked back and around to make sure no one is watching her. She then placed the gem into the impression on the altar. Across from the altar was a small building with two sets of stairs leading to portal that was created in the wake of Wild Flower's gem. She took it out and placed it back into her pocket. The four were naturally wondering where she was going. Wild Flower looked around one last time, before heading up the stairs that led to the portal. Silent Star couldn't stand by anymore. He jumped from his hiding place and ran after his childhood friend.
"Wild Flower, wait! Where are you going?" Silent Star shouted as he ran towards Wild Flower.
Startled, Wild Flower wasted no time is fleeing up the stair as fast as she could, attempting to elude Silent Star. As Silent Star got to the foot of the stairs, Wild Flower was already at the top. She stopped to give Silent Star a look that appeared to beg for forgiveness.
"I'm so sorry, Silent Star…" Wild Flower sounded she was going to break into tears. With that, she jumped into the portal.
Just as Silent Star reached the top, he stopped dead in his tracks as he saw the portal, as well as Wild Flower, disappear into thin air. His eyes were glued to where the portal used to be a second ago.
Silent Star dropped to his knees as the rest of the group reached the top at his side. "Wild Flower…why are you doing this…?"