"The dark woods were silent as Li Mei knelt before a circle of thirteen candles, drawing complex runes in the soft dirt with a bone wand. Her crimson robes rustled subtly in the faint breeze, the only sound for miles it seemed. As the final line was inscribed, she lowered her hands and spoke words in an ancient, forbidden tongue. The candles suddenly roared to life with emerald flames, their ethereal glow casting her delicate features in a haunting light."

"Rise, my creation! Arise and do my bidding," "Li Mei commanded with a smug smile, observing her work with pride." "You are user, and you will help the great Li Mei defeat her enemies," "she declared with a haughty laugh," "Respond only when spoken to, creature. Your will is mine to control as I see fit." "Arching a defined brow, she stepped nearer to inspect her handiwork." "Well? Do you understand your purpose, jiangshi? I expect only obedience from now on."