Breaking Bamboo by Tim Murgatroyd

Author:Tim Murgatroyd [Murgatroyd, Tim]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Science Fiction, Sci Fi, Steampunk
Publisher: Myrmidon Books

‘It seems I must be plain,’ he said, heavily. ‘If I cannot continue as Dr Shih’s apprentice then I must find another master.

A master with influence, who can protect me.’

Had fear shaken his mind? What other doctor would be so forbearing as Shih? Who else would ignore Chung’s lazy ways and half-learned lessons?

‘Such a one might be hard to find,’ she said, cautiously.

‘Hah! Not so, Madam! You see, there are those who would offer me a position in return for. . . certain information.’ Breath quickening, he rubbed his forehead. ‘I do not want any of this!

You know how I honour Dr Shih. You have been a mother to me. And he a father. But I love my life and making poison bombs will kill me as surely as it did Dr Liang’s apprentice. Can you not urge Captain Xiao to intercede on my behalf? Then we shall live as we did before.’

Cao’s head remained low.

‘You refer to something I once confided in you,’ she whispered. ‘Thinking you a friend.’

Chung could not meet her eye.

‘I do refer to the circumstances of your marriage,’ he muttered.

‘And I give you until this evening, Madam, because I have been ordered to report to the Bureau of Righteous Fire by sunset.’

The familiar shop blurred through tears.

‘Very well, I shall ask Captain Xiao today,’ she said, wiping her eyes. ‘This afternoon I shall see him. Yes, I shall.’

Chung bowed and walked stiffly to his room. Yet she glimpsed a look of triumph on his once-dear face as he left. It frightened her more than his words.

*

Cao hurried towards Swallow Gate. Many noticed her sorrowful expression, but in that she was unremarkable.

Who did not grieve as they wandered through these days?

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