Tales of the mystic love

#30 Defying Destiny

Xiao, Lian, and Ming sat together, discussing recent events and how they had inadvertently become involved in solving various murder cases. Like fate itself, lead them to solve different cases and improving their detective skills and knowledge. Lian was also having great help in knowing human's nature.

Suddenly, a sharp screech pierced the air. All three looked up to see a hawk soaring above. On one of its legs was tied a small bamboo tube, from which red smoke was blowing out. The hawk hovered above shop No.26 for a few moments before climbing higher into the sky and disappearing.

Xiaobo's eyes widened in alarm. "That's the signal!" he exclaimed, quickly rising to his feet. "I must return to the palace immediately. There's trouble."

He turned to one of the servants standing nearby. "Bring the carriage, now!" he ordered urgently.

Ming, recognizing the gravity of the situation from his brother's reaction, started securing the ledgers and other important documents in a cupboard. "We don't have much time," he said, glancing at Lian who looked bewildered by the sudden chaos.

"What's happening?" Lian asked, her voice tinged with confusion.

Ming paused for a moment, then explained, "That signal means Xiaobo is needed at the palace right away. Something serious has happened."

"I will also come with you" Says Lian sternly.

Xiaobo was already changing into plain white clothes, his face etched with worry. "Lian, it's dangerous," he said, looking at her seriously. "Once you enter the palace, it's not easy to get out. I don't want to put you in harm's way."

But Lian was resolute. "I want to help you, Xiaobo. Whatever it is, we face it together. I've entered the palace before disguised as a maid servant. I can do it again."

Xiaobo hesitated, his concern for her evident, but time was against them. He finally nodded, seeing the determination in her eyes. "Alright, but stay close to us and be careful."

Within minutes, the carriage arrived, and Xiaobo, Ming, and Lian hurriedly boarded it. As the carriage sped towards the palace, the three sat in tense silence, each lost in their thoughts.

Xiaobo broke the silence first. "We must be prepared for anything. The palace is full of intrigue and danger. We don't know what we're walking into."

Ming nodded. "I've got the documents secured in our shop. No need to worry about that. Whatever happens, we need to stay united and watch each other's backs."

Lian, sitting between them, looked from one brother to the other. "What exactly are we facing?" she asked quietly.

Xiaobo sighed. "It could be any number of things. Political unrest, an assassination attempt, anything... The palace is a hotbed of schemes and power struggles. Our family has always been entangled in these matters."

Ming placed a reassuring hand on Lian's shoulder. "Don't worry, Lian. We'll protect you. Just follow our lead. And don't tell anyone about the shop or anything about Xiao. Please think before you speak. A small mistake in the palace leads to big problems."

The carriage raced through the streets, the clatter of hooves and the creak of wheels blending with the distant sounds of the city. As they neared the palace, Xiaobo's mind raced with possibilities. He knew they had to be ready for anything.

The carriage sped through the city, finally stopping behind the palace. Xiaobo quickly thanked the servant, pressing a few coins into his hand. "Close the shop for a few days," he instructed. The servant nodded, understanding the urgency, and hurried off.

Xiaobo led Ming and Lian through the dense bamboo trees and thick bushes, moving with practiced ease. Hidden behind the foliage was a cleverly concealed wooden cover, blending seamlessly with the surroundings. Xiaobo lifted the cover, revealing a small tunnel. "Follow me," he said, disappearing into the hole.