Little Inklings 2022

Teng Xie’ao. The leader of the rebels in the Qing Province, the Blood Dragon. Rumors of him and his name, whispered low under breath, haunt every household and market in Xiayang. Xie’ao smirks. “I can see you have heard of me, Empress Wu. And to answer your question, the people’s authority. You have been deemed too extravagant a ruler for the citizens, and we have come to take over.” A single tear runs down my face as I come to a realization. If I leave the Jade Palace again, it will be with my head on a stake. The Blood Dragon laughs. “Did you think this lifestyle would not catch up with you? To think you, the Empress Who Raised Herself from Rags would live this audacious lifestyle!” I shut my eyes tight as more tears fall from my eyes. “Please,” I beg. “Is it money you want? I have money to give.” “I’ll have money to give, too, when I am Emperor. Goodbye, Wu Chusi.” THE DRAGONS OF IRON PATRICK KEEDY BROWN ❜ 26 LAEL SANDERS ❜ 26 73