The morning mist dissipated slowly, clinging to the air like tufts of cotton singed by the Blood Flame Furnace.
Fourth Master Wu led the way, supporting his limping companion. His coarse cloth trousers were stained with soot, and every step produced a crisp crunch against the charred stones. A little girl, clutching half a flatbread, ran a few paces before looking back. Her round eyes reflected the sight of Pi Yanlin leaning against a burnt rock. He was sitting with his eyes closed, steadying his breath, while golden flames leaked from between his fingers, tracing a crooked circle upon the ground.
"Brother Lin, care for some water?" A man carrying water approached with a half-broken earthen jar, the ends of his sleeves still wrapped in remnants of unburnt red silk.
Chapter 76