Beginnings were troublesome. They attracted people, burdens, debts, expectations, and idiots who suddenly believed they deserved a vote on matters they did not understand.
She preferred clean rooms, sharp weapons, organized supplies, and Sir Edmund.
As though summoned by his own importance, Sir Edmund appeared at the farmhouse doorway.
The tuxedo cat stepped onto the porch with the grave dignity of an emperor inspecting border officials. His green eyes moved over Major Lin, Lu Chengran, Xu Ren, Chen Qiao, the damp chihuahua, and finally Tang Li Yue.
Then he meowed.
Tang Li Yue immediately softened.
"Your Grace, why are you awake?"
Major Lin stared at her.
Chen Qiao whispered to Xu Ren, "Why does the cat outrank everyone?"
Xu Ren whispered back, "Because Li Yue said so."
"Should we record that?"
"It may be safest."
Tang Li Yue bent down and picked Sir Edmund up, carefully keeping him away from the chihuahua. Sir Edmund looked at the dog with profound disgust.
