Fantasy novella. A world reminiscent of imperial China. A cleric from a monastic order devoted to preserving history arrives, along with their talking bird-like companion with perfect recall, at what had been the late empress’ home while she was in internal exile many years before. They encounter an old woman who, as they catalogue the contents of the villa, tells them stories of the empress’ time there. The trajectory of an entire epic in short, wonderfully crafted moments. Great writing, great story.
Originally posted by Scott on Goodreads.