Chapter Three: Letting the Tiger Return to the Mountain (III)

III. Distance

It was only when the sky had fully darkened that Xiangbao finally found the tomb of Helü. All around was pitch black, without a trace of moonlight. Xiangbao gazed about for a long time before spotting a faint glow in the distance—likely the lamplight from the tomb keeper's hut, the place where Goujian resided.

Hoisting her cumbersome long skirt, Xiangbao hurried forward. She knocked on the door, calling, "Your Majesty." For a long moment, there was no response; unease and doubt crept into her heart. She had just stepped back when the door suddenly swung open and a dozen black-clad men, all bearing the air of death-bound warriors, surged out, encircling her. Xiangbao stood stunned for a moment before realization dawned—this was a trap set by the Lady of the King.

There was no time to think. One of the men stepped forward, reaching for her. Steadying herself, Xiangbao raised her voice, "Why does the Lady wish to kill me?"

Hearing her utter "Lady," the man paused, seeming surprised for an instant before sneering softly. "You’re not as dim as you seem."

"What have I done wrong?" Xiangbao clenched her fists.

"You're a beauty that brings ruin—what use is there in keeping you alive? Better to let us brothers enjoy you..." He laughed.

Xiangbao instinctively stepped back, a pang of grief stabbing her heart. So, the poison this time had been administered by Goujian. Times had changed; after years of rest and recuperation, Yue was now impatient to resolve the matter of Fuchai. But... Was the Lady so certain Fuchai would die? So certain Xiangbao was of no further use? So eager to dispose of her without delay?

Who did her existence threaten so much that they sought her death with such urgency?

A gleaming sword flicked, slicing her sash; her cloak fell to the ground, and even her outer robe was cut open, revealing the white undergarment beneath. A rush of cold pierced her, and Xiangbao shivered. The men laughed boisterously; another sword thrust at her. Xiangbao stepped back, but this time the blade meant to tear her clothes instead stabbed directly into her shoulder.

Pain seared her shoulder, and Xiangbao bit her lip.

"Ah, your swordsmanship is rather poor," someone jeered.

"What are you dodging for? Dodge again and don’t blame my sword for not having eyes..." The swordsman, humiliated, yanked his sword back.

Dark red blood quickly welled up. Xiangbao pressed her hand to her shoulder.

"Let me try!" Another man laughed, thrusting his sword.

Biting her lip hard, Xiangbao