Nearby, Qiao Zhi mirrored the practice. Her eyelashes rested lightly against her cheeks as she drew in a measured breath, imagining pale-green qi flowing into her body like a cool, nourishing spring. She felt it cascade through her arms and legs, filling every cell with invigorating clarity. Occasionally, she shifted her posture, straightening her back or adjusting the position of her hands in her lap, ensuring an unobstructed flow of energy.
Above them, the sun traced its arc across the sky, sending dappled light dancing through the leaves overhead. Shafts of golden sunlight warmed their robes and illuminated drifting specks of dust, turning them into tiny flickers of light. A gentle breeze wove through the garden, carrying the heady fragrance of jasmine blossoms and the crisp scent of pine needles. The air seemed alive, humming in quiet harmony with their slow, methodical breathing.
