Expectation conceals the truth.

Noblewoman and cultivator Li Yao is called to a small village to investigate a mysterious illness that has drained residents of their chi. Accompanying her are her suitors Xiang An and Shen Wei, both more trouble than they're worth in Li Yao's eyes.

Perhaps not all is as it seems. In the village and her suitors.

This is a short story set in the A Thousand Li universe. Does not need to be read to follow the main series.