The Choice

You are thinking too long, old Mr. Hu said, and there was almost kindness in it. A young man should not have to choose between his life and a house in the rain. Go back to your uncle's school. We will manage, as foxes have always managed, or we will not, and either way it is not your debt.

I have a question, Feng said. And he surprised himself by how steady his voice was. When the hunter comes, will he come to this house, or will he come for the girl first?

Old Mr. Hu was quiet for a moment. He will come for the girl, he said. The line runs through her now. I am old, and I am not what I was. She is the one the charm will name, if he can.