Li Wei and Leng Yue stepped out into the flickering torchlight. The provincial officials' eyes glinted with authority and suspicion. The villagers outside drew closer to the commotion, their faces pale, curious, fearful.
The elder official — robed in black trimmed with crimson — nodded slowly. "Very well. We shall verify your claims, in the guest hall. Place down all arms and relics."
Leng Yue's hand tightened on her inner sleeve, but she did not move. Li Wei inclined his head, expression respectful but unyielding. "So be it." The young master did not needlessly find trouble with the man, as he was carrying out the orders of his superior.
"Stay close…" He motioned to the boy, who trembled behind them. A flicker of torchlight caught the young one's wide, haunted eyes, and Leng Yue placed a steady hand on his shoulder, giving him what comfort she could.
