Suddenly she felt a gaze land on her, sharp and intense. The feeling was strange, like a stone tossed into the lake of her heart, sending out ring after ring of ripples.
She forced herself not to look up and glance around, following her senior brother's steps, walking past at an unhurried pace.
"Lady Baili, I've come on behalf of my master to present your birthday gift, and to thank you for your care of our temple over the years."
Fei Tan turned her head to glance at the person behind her: "Fei Xin."
Fei Xin lowered her head and stepped forward, offering the box with both hands.
"This is a Diamond Sutra hand-copied by my master, blessed before the Buddha and enshrined for seven times seven, forty-nine days. It can dispel calamities and avert misfortune, and keep your household safe and sound."
Lady Baili personally stepped forward, pressed her palms together: "Thank you, Master."
