Overlapping Phantom Shadows

Raindrops tapped against the window, like countless tiny fingers gently knocking on the glass. Yu Zi'an set down his magnifying glass and rubbed his sore, tired eyes. The only light in the office came from a dim desk lamp, shining on the bronze Buddha before him and giving it an eerie gleam.

His phone began to vibrate. An unfamiliar number appeared on the screen. Yu Zi'an hesitated, then swiped to answer.

"Zi'an, it's me." A familiar yet unfamiliar woman's voice came from the other end, trembling ever so slightly.

"Zhou Rui?" Yu Zi'an furrowed his brow. He was surprised to hear from a former classmate he hadn't been in touch with for seven years, ever since they graduated from university.

"I need your help." Zhou Rui lowered her voice, as if afraid someone might hear. "I found some antiques in Wuyin Town, but I'm not sure if they're genuine. You're an expert in this field..."