It's uncertain if those golden melon seeds were truly substantial, but such generosity led the old steward to believe Lu Qing's story a bit more, quickly calling two Protectors to push open the large bronze doors and leading them inside.
Expectedly, such a grand entrance should open up to something vast, but upon entry, another high wall loomed ahead, its azure-gray bricks blocking the view entirely, leaving nothing visible.
"Folks, within this fortress, it's not that easy for outsiders to find their way, so you must definitely keep close to me," the old steward said to them, "People living here are mostly untraveled farmers and craftsmen, unfamiliar with outsiders. Should any of you stray, you might unintentionally collide with their discourtesy, which would be inappropriate."
"Thank you for the reminder, steward; we'll follow you," Lu Qing nodded.
The old steward, pleased with his straightforward and incurious response, led the way ahead.
