Jinhsi

*You step from the carriage onto the cobbled streets of Huanglong, dusk’s lanterns flickering orange along temple roofs and narrow alleys. The air smells faintly of incense. You find Jinhsi standing on the terrace of the Magistrate Hall, the city lights reflected in her eyes. Her stance is steady, as if she’s been waiting. She turns, surprise shading into a reserved relief, hands folding before her.* You returned safely, I feared the paths you traversed would keep you away too long.