Chapter 166
If audio player doesn't work, press Stop then Play button again
Chapter 166
Watching the trees rush by as he jostled within his carriage, Situ Jia Zian reflected on the horrid twists of fate which brought him low, cursing his foul luck and foolish dreams. That damned bastard Nian Zu, convincing him to accept the Token of Office against Mothers wishes. Given the chance, Zian would shove this cursed Token down his throat. Then there was the wily old Marshal and his half-beast bitch, deceiving him into thinking fame and fortune awaited him here in Sanshu. An entire month chasing shadows in the sticks, and what did he have to show for it? Nothing but tick bites and saddle sores, the cowardly bandits gone into hiding at the first sign of danger, neither hide nor hair of the Crossbone Corsairs to be found.
It was all Mothers fault. If not for her overprotective coddling, he wouldnt have found the need to escape her stifling embrace. Even here in the middle of nowhere, her presence could be felt from the looming bodyguards taking root in his carriage instead of his customary courtesans. That couldnt all be blamed on Mother, Uncle Yang had a hand in that, but having four burly men within arms reach at all times was less than ideal. Their foul stench aside, how was he to grow as a warrior without experiencing danger and peril?
Glancing at the sun hanging high in the sky, his stomach rebelled at the thought of another meal of cold meat and dried bread. Calling for a stop, his carriage lurched to a halt, almost throwing him from his seat. Normally, he would have gone with it and landed himself softly in the bosom of a lovely young attendant, but hed rather die than land in the chest of his bodyguards. Discipline and moderation, Uncle Yangs two favourite words, going so far as to make sure Zians retinue consisted of nothing but men. Burly, unattractive men at that, as if worried Zian would slip so far. Loneliness and self-discipline, such was the arduous path towards martial excellence according to Uncle Yang. No flowers to gaze upon, no music to appreciate, no poetry to analyze, Zian craved stimulation, both mental and physical.
Riding to the carriage window, his second-in-command Jukai clasped hands and bowed in the saddle, his salt and pepper hair emitting a cloud of dust and dandruff. Young Master, this lowly soldier awaits your command.
Ive told you before, you will call me Officer Zian. It was a pointless argument, but Zian was nothing if not stubborn.
Young Master, this lowly soldier cannot comply for he serves the Young Master, not a mere Warrant Officer. Head still bowed, the tone was unapologetic and if not for the mans rank and martial prowess, Zian would have him whipped for insubordination. A career soldier with the rank of Colonel, the man was without flaw, the perfect soldier aside from his sycophantic need to call Zian Young Master.
The old man was utterly transparent, volunteering for Zians retinue in hopes of ingratiating himself with the Situ Clan heir. An odd course for a man so near his twilight years, hed likely be dead before Zian took power, but itd be foolish to turn away an asset like Jukai. Break for lunch, its been days since Ive eaten a hot meal.
As you wish, Young Master.
Stepping into the light, Zian flicked his sleeves and clasped his hands behind him, head held high as his soldiers erected an awning. Taking a seat in the shade, he mentally composed a poem while his meal cooked, enjoying the peace and solitude. An impotent endeavour, for poetry was to be shared and discussed over fine food and wine. Instead, he had four uneducated blockheads watching his every move, far from the niceties of hearth and home. He craved the taste of soft-shell crabs, fresh from the Azure Sea, or a tender duck, marinated in soy and garlic, roasted to perfection. Instead, he ate some gamy salted bird and buckwheat noodles in watery broth, the epitome of luxury here in the woods.Read latest chapters at nov(e)lbin.com Only
After finishing his meal, Zian found Jukai already mounted, his retinue ready to leave. Waving him down, Zian ordered, Come, spar with me, I grow weary of travelling. Not only was he an expert who fought in the same style, he was one of the few men in Zians command with the courage to risk injuring the Situ Clan heir.
Leaning over, Jukai spoke softly. Young Master, as much as it would please me to guide your progress in the Martial Path, Major Yuzhen mandated we arrive with all haste. We are already well behind the other Warrant Officers and will be last to arrive.
Something snapped inside him, and he grabbed the older man by the lapel. Doddering old fool, someone has to be last, who cares if its us? That arrogant bitch sent me North to beat the grass while she curries favour with the Bekhai, and now she thinks she can whistle and have me come running like some trained-dog? She can go eat shit, this is an abuse of her authority! Now, I am ordering you, come down and spar with me.
Red-faced from his outburst, his anger quickly turned to shame as Jukai gazed in disapproval, his voice barely more than a whisper. Young Master, the reason is irrelevant. Major Yuzhen issued an order backed by Marshal Shing Du Yi's authority. We are but soldiers, to follow orders our lot in life. The same can be said for Clansmen and Society Adherent, so should you ever find the burden of rank, clan, or society too onerous for your tastes, then relinquish them. Until such a time, our orders must be obeyed, but whatever path Young Master chooses, this lowly soldier will serve at your side.
Left with no choice and no face, Zian stepped back into his carriage and suffered in silence. A disgraceful display, allowing his anger and frustration to get the better of him, throwing a tantrum like a child. He could only quietly thank Jukai for handling things quietly, without mockery or ridicule. Perhaps he was right, perhaps it was time for Zian to relinquish his ranking. Accepting it was a mistake to begin with, another childish tantrum born from the desire to adventure and escape from his shame.
As for abandoning Clan and Society... Impossible. The Situ Clan paid dearly for his failure and his life, in more ways than one. Loss of face, loss of status, loss of reputation, though Mother hid these tidings from him, Zian knew they were reeling from their defeat. Now, with Nian Zu and Du Yi publicly declaring Baatar and Yuzhen their successors, the Society was rife with dissension and discord, squabbling amongst themselves instead of uniting to face their enemies.
Ryong and ZhiLan glanced at him uncomfortably as BoShui sniggered. A blockhead who knows nothing but how to swing his swords. She avoids Shen Yun because she doesnt trust you or your Mother.
Enough. ZhiLan cut in before Zian could retort. She trusts none of us, which is why she sent us away to Eastern Prosperity. It was the correct choice at the time, with no support aside from the Marshals. Things have changed now.
So what now? We threaten her? Ive been dreaming of pulling the ice queen down from her high horse, the arrogant whore. Ryongs disgusting leer betrayed his intentions, almost drooling at the thought.
Dont be foolish. Zian put an end to this line of thought. You think the Marshal a paper tiger? Without support from Clan and Society, he took and held the highest position of authority in the North for nigh on thirty years. Not a man to be trifled with, no less dangerous than Nian Zu.
Wise words. Zhilan fluttered her eyes at him in teasing. And whos to say we need do anything? Her actions were brilliant, costing only the Council. Moreover, since her arrival in Sanshu, bandit activity aside from the Mothers Militia has all but stopped, earning the Society much-needed respect from the citizenry.
Much needed after your clans failure at the Bridge. Never one to miss a chance, BoShui delighted in bringing up Zians defeat. The great Zian, defeated by a nameless savage. For shame.
Taking a deep breath, Zian sat in silence as Zhilan and Ryong leaned back, removing themselves from the matter at hand. Realizing hed overstepped, BoShui paled and sat up straight, feigning confidence as he tried to resist Zians cold stare and suffocating Aura. His own Aura shattering beneath Zians assault, BoShui glanced away, shivering in fear as Zian spoke calmly, choosing to take the high road. Nameless savage no more. Since you think so little of him, Ill await your challenge to the Undying Falling Rain. I will be the first to thank you for regaining what face I have lost. The little runt would tear BoShui to pieces, laughing all the while. Even Ryong might not be a match for the ferocious warrior, to say nothing of Zhilan and BoShui.
Leaving his Aura to suppress BoShui, Zian reached for his teacup and drank slowly, placing it down with an audible clink before releasing his Aura. So, we are in agreement, the matter of Yuzhen and her indiscretions will be left untouched. His tone left no room for argument. What else?
Collecting herself, ZhiLan answered hurriedly. This must stay secret under threat of summary execution. Peering around the table for agreement, she took a deep breath before continuing, her voice a bare whisper. There's been a Demon sighting along with a band of Defiled. Our purpose in coming here is to aid in the Purge.
Breaking out in a cold sweat, Zians stomach flopped as his mouth dried up. How reliable is your report?
Beyond reproach. I received a sealed missive from my Sect Leader informing me the Purge has already been called and the Society has deployed the Shrike. We must all tread lightly.
The Shrike, the Sanguinary Priestess, the Painted Inquisitor, the Mad Dog of the Society, whatever name she went by, it brought to mind tales of brutal bloodshed and appalling atrocities. Responsible for overseeing three Purges in the last decade, once set on the trail of the Defiled she never stopped until the deaths numbered in the thousands, ranting all the while of carrying out the will of the Mother. Her rallying cry, Better Dead than Defiled, was often followed by a massacre, caring little for nuances like her victims backing and allegiances. Hiding his shaking hands, Zian calmed his nerves as best he could, clearing his throat before speaking. Might I impose on Sister ZhiLan for a drink? Something stronger than tea perhaps.
Ready for the request, ZhiLan poured out four measured cups herself, the harsh smell filling the pavilion and stinging his eyes. Raising the glass briefly, he tossed back the drink in one gulp before refilling it, saying a brief prayer for the citizens of Western Treasures Lake.
Poor souls, bear no grudges for you have nothing to blame but fate. May you find joy and riches in your next life.
Chapter Meme
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 166
Watching the trees rush by as he jostled within his carriage, Situ Jia Zian reflected on the horrid twists of fate which brought him low, cursing his foul luck and foolish dreams. That damned bastard Nian Zu, convincing him to accept the Token of Office against Mothers wishes. Given the chance, Zian would shove this cursed Token down his throat. Then there was the wily old Marshal and his half-beast bitch, deceiving him into thinking fame and fortune awaited him here in Sanshu. An entire month chasing shadows in the sticks, and what did he have to show for it? Nothing but tick bites and saddle sores, the cowardly bandits gone into hiding at the first sign of danger, neither hide nor hair of the Crossbone Corsairs to be found.
It was all Mothers fault. If not for her overprotective coddling, he wouldnt have found the need to escape her stifling embrace. Even here in the middle of nowhere, her presence could be felt from the looming bodyguards taking root in his carriage instead of his customary courtesans. That couldnt all be blamed on Mother, Uncle Yang had a hand in that, but having four burly men within arms reach at all times was less than ideal. Their foul stench aside, how was he to grow as a warrior without experiencing danger and peril?
Glancing at the sun hanging high in the sky, his stomach rebelled at the thought of another meal of cold meat and dried bread. Calling for a stop, his carriage lurched to a halt, almost throwing him from his seat. Normally, he would have gone with it and landed himself softly in the bosom of a lovely young attendant, but hed rather die than land in the chest of his bodyguards. Discipline and moderation, Uncle Yangs two favourite words, going so far as to make sure Zians retinue consisted of nothing but men. Burly, unattractive men at that, as if worried Zian would slip so far. Loneliness and self-discipline, such was the arduous path towards martial excellence according to Uncle Yang. No flowers to gaze upon, no music to appreciate, no poetry to analyze, Zian craved stimulation, both mental and physical.
Riding to the carriage window, his second-in-command Jukai clasped hands and bowed in the saddle, his salt and pepper hair emitting a cloud of dust and dandruff. Young Master, this lowly soldier awaits your command.
Ive told you before, you will call me Officer Zian. It was a pointless argument, but Zian was nothing if not stubborn.
Young Master, this lowly soldier cannot comply for he serves the Young Master, not a mere Warrant Officer. Head still bowed, the tone was unapologetic and if not for the mans rank and martial prowess, Zian would have him whipped for insubordination. A career soldier with the rank of Colonel, the man was without flaw, the perfect soldier aside from his sycophantic need to call Zian Young Master.
The old man was utterly transparent, volunteering for Zians retinue in hopes of ingratiating himself with the Situ Clan heir. An odd course for a man so near his twilight years, hed likely be dead before Zian took power, but itd be foolish to turn away an asset like Jukai. Break for lunch, its been days since Ive eaten a hot meal.
As you wish, Young Master.
Stepping into the light, Zian flicked his sleeves and clasped his hands behind him, head held high as his soldiers erected an awning. Taking a seat in the shade, he mentally composed a poem while his meal cooked, enjoying the peace and solitude. An impotent endeavour, for poetry was to be shared and discussed over fine food and wine. Instead, he had four uneducated blockheads watching his every move, far from the niceties of hearth and home. He craved the taste of soft-shell crabs, fresh from the Azure Sea, or a tender duck, marinated in soy and garlic, roasted to perfection. Instead, he ate some gamy salted bird and buckwheat noodles in watery broth, the epitome of luxury here in the woods.Read latest chapters at nov(e)lbin.com Only
After finishing his meal, Zian found Jukai already mounted, his retinue ready to leave. Waving him down, Zian ordered, Come, spar with me, I grow weary of travelling. Not only was he an expert who fought in the same style, he was one of the few men in Zians command with the courage to risk injuring the Situ Clan heir.
Leaning over, Jukai spoke softly. Young Master, as much as it would please me to guide your progress in the Martial Path, Major Yuzhen mandated we arrive with all haste. We are already well behind the other Warrant Officers and will be last to arrive.
Something snapped inside him, and he grabbed the older man by the lapel. Doddering old fool, someone has to be last, who cares if its us? That arrogant bitch sent me North to beat the grass while she curries favour with the Bekhai, and now she thinks she can whistle and have me come running like some trained-dog? She can go eat shit, this is an abuse of her authority! Now, I am ordering you, come down and spar with me.
Red-faced from his outburst, his anger quickly turned to shame as Jukai gazed in disapproval, his voice barely more than a whisper. Young Master, the reason is irrelevant. Major Yuzhen issued an order backed by Marshal Shing Du Yi's authority. We are but soldiers, to follow orders our lot in life. The same can be said for Clansmen and Society Adherent, so should you ever find the burden of rank, clan, or society too onerous for your tastes, then relinquish them. Until such a time, our orders must be obeyed, but whatever path Young Master chooses, this lowly soldier will serve at your side.
Left with no choice and no face, Zian stepped back into his carriage and suffered in silence. A disgraceful display, allowing his anger and frustration to get the better of him, throwing a tantrum like a child. He could only quietly thank Jukai for handling things quietly, without mockery or ridicule. Perhaps he was right, perhaps it was time for Zian to relinquish his ranking. Accepting it was a mistake to begin with, another childish tantrum born from the desire to adventure and escape from his shame.
As for abandoning Clan and Society... Impossible. The Situ Clan paid dearly for his failure and his life, in more ways than one. Loss of face, loss of status, loss of reputation, though Mother hid these tidings from him, Zian knew they were reeling from their defeat. Now, with Nian Zu and Du Yi publicly declaring Baatar and Yuzhen their successors, the Society was rife with dissension and discord, squabbling amongst themselves instead of uniting to face their enemies.
Ryong and ZhiLan glanced at him uncomfortably as BoShui sniggered. A blockhead who knows nothing but how to swing his swords. She avoids Shen Yun because she doesnt trust you or your Mother.
Enough. ZhiLan cut in before Zian could retort. She trusts none of us, which is why she sent us away to Eastern Prosperity. It was the correct choice at the time, with no support aside from the Marshals. Things have changed now.
So what now? We threaten her? Ive been dreaming of pulling the ice queen down from her high horse, the arrogant whore. Ryongs disgusting leer betrayed his intentions, almost drooling at the thought.
Dont be foolish. Zian put an end to this line of thought. You think the Marshal a paper tiger? Without support from Clan and Society, he took and held the highest position of authority in the North for nigh on thirty years. Not a man to be trifled with, no less dangerous than Nian Zu.
Wise words. Zhilan fluttered her eyes at him in teasing. And whos to say we need do anything? Her actions were brilliant, costing only the Council. Moreover, since her arrival in Sanshu, bandit activity aside from the Mothers Militia has all but stopped, earning the Society much-needed respect from the citizenry.
Much needed after your clans failure at the Bridge. Never one to miss a chance, BoShui delighted in bringing up Zians defeat. The great Zian, defeated by a nameless savage. For shame.
Taking a deep breath, Zian sat in silence as Zhilan and Ryong leaned back, removing themselves from the matter at hand. Realizing hed overstepped, BoShui paled and sat up straight, feigning confidence as he tried to resist Zians cold stare and suffocating Aura. His own Aura shattering beneath Zians assault, BoShui glanced away, shivering in fear as Zian spoke calmly, choosing to take the high road. Nameless savage no more. Since you think so little of him, Ill await your challenge to the Undying Falling Rain. I will be the first to thank you for regaining what face I have lost. The little runt would tear BoShui to pieces, laughing all the while. Even Ryong might not be a match for the ferocious warrior, to say nothing of Zhilan and BoShui.
Leaving his Aura to suppress BoShui, Zian reached for his teacup and drank slowly, placing it down with an audible clink before releasing his Aura. So, we are in agreement, the matter of Yuzhen and her indiscretions will be left untouched. His tone left no room for argument. What else?
Collecting herself, ZhiLan answered hurriedly. This must stay secret under threat of summary execution. Peering around the table for agreement, she took a deep breath before continuing, her voice a bare whisper. There's been a Demon sighting along with a band of Defiled. Our purpose in coming here is to aid in the Purge.
Breaking out in a cold sweat, Zians stomach flopped as his mouth dried up. How reliable is your report?
Beyond reproach. I received a sealed missive from my Sect Leader informing me the Purge has already been called and the Society has deployed the Shrike. We must all tread lightly.
The Shrike, the Sanguinary Priestess, the Painted Inquisitor, the Mad Dog of the Society, whatever name she went by, it brought to mind tales of brutal bloodshed and appalling atrocities. Responsible for overseeing three Purges in the last decade, once set on the trail of the Defiled she never stopped until the deaths numbered in the thousands, ranting all the while of carrying out the will of the Mother. Her rallying cry, Better Dead than Defiled, was often followed by a massacre, caring little for nuances like her victims backing and allegiances. Hiding his shaking hands, Zian calmed his nerves as best he could, clearing his throat before speaking. Might I impose on Sister ZhiLan for a drink? Something stronger than tea perhaps.
Ready for the request, ZhiLan poured out four measured cups herself, the harsh smell filling the pavilion and stinging his eyes. Raising the glass briefly, he tossed back the drink in one gulp before refilling it, saying a brief prayer for the citizens of Western Treasures Lake.
Poor souls, bear no grudges for you have nothing to blame but fate. May you find joy and riches in your next life.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 166Watching the trees rush by as he jostled within his carriage, Situ Jia Zian reflected on the horrid twists of fate which brought him low, cursing his foul luck and foolish dreams. That damned bastard Nian Zu, convincing him to accept the Token of Office against Mothers wishes. Given the chance, Zian would shove this cursed Token down his throat. Then there was the wily old Marshal and his half-beast bitch, deceiving him into thinking fame and fortune awaited him here in Sanshu. An entire month chasing shadows in the sticks, and what did he have to show for it? Nothing but tick bites and saddle sores, the cowardly bandits gone into hiding at the first sign of danger, neither hide nor hair of the Crossbone Corsairs to be found.It was all Mothers fault. If not for her overprotective coddling, he wouldnt have found the need to escape her stifling embrace. Even here in the middle of nowhere, her presence could be felt from the looming bodyguards taking root in his carriage instead of his customary courtesans. That couldnt all be blamed on Mother, Uncle Yang had a hand in that, but having four burly men within arms reach at all times was less than ideal. Their foul stench aside, how was he to grow as a warrior without experiencing danger and peril?Glancing at the sun hanging high in the sky, his stomach rebelled at the thought of another meal of cold meat and dried bread. Calling for a stop, his carriage lurched to a halt, almost throwing him from his seat. Normally, he would have gone with it and landed himself softly in the bosom of a lovely young attendant, but hed rather die than land in the chest of his bodyguards. Discipline and moderation, Uncle Yangs two favourite words, going so far as to make sure Zians retinue consisted of nothing but men. Burly, unattractive men at that, as if worried Zian would slip so far. Loneliness and self-discipline, such was the arduous path towards martial excellence according to Uncle Yang. No flowers to gaze upon, no music to appreciate, no poetry to analyze, Zian craved stimulation, both mental and physical.Riding to the carriage window, his second-in-command Jukai clasped hands and bowed in the saddle, his salt and pepper hair emitting a cloud of dust and dandruff. Young Master, this lowly soldier awaits your command.Ive told you before, you will call me Officer Zian. It was a pointless argument, but Zian was nothing if not stubborn.Young Master, this lowly soldier cannot comply for he serves the Young Master, not a mere Warrant Officer. Head still bowed, the tone was unapologetic and if not for the mans rank and martial prowess, Zian would have him whipped for insubordination. A career soldier with the rank of Colonel, the man was without flaw, the perfect soldier aside from his sycophantic need to call Zian Young Master.The old man was utterly transparent, volunteering for Zians retinue in hopes of ingratiating himself with the Situ Clan heir. An odd course for a man so near his twilight years, hed likely be dead before Zian took power, but itd be foolish to turn away an asset like Jukai. Break for lunch, its been days since Ive eaten a hot meal.As you wish, Young Master.Stepping into the light, Zian flicked his sleeves and clasped his hands behind him, head held high as his soldiers erected an awning. Taking a seat in the shade, he mentally composed a poem while his meal cooked, enjoying the peace and solitude. An impotent endeavour, for poetry was to be shared and discussed over fine food and wine. Instead, he had four uneducated blockheads watching his every move, far from the niceties of hearth and home. He craved the taste of soft-shell crabs, fresh from the Azure Sea, or a tender duck, marinated in soy and garlic, roasted to perfection. Instead, he ate some gamy salted bird and buckwheat noodles in watery broth, the epitome of luxury here in the woods.Read latest chapters at novelbin.com OnlyAfter finishing his meal, Zian found Jukai already mounted, his retinue ready to leave. Waving him down, Zian ordered, Come, spar with me, I grow weary of travelling. Not only was he an expert who fought in the same style, he was one of the few men in Zians command with the courage to risk injuring the Situ Clan heir.Leaning over, Jukai spoke softly. Young Master, as much as it would please me to guide your progress in the Martial Path, Major Yuzhen mandated we arrive with all haste. We are already well behind the other Warrant Officers and will be last to arrive.Something snapped inside him, and he grabbed the older man by the lapel. Doddering old fool, someone has to be last, who cares if its us? That arrogant bitch sent me North to beat the grass while she curries favour with the Bekhai, and now she thinks she can whistle and have me come running like some trained-dog? She can go eat shit, this is an abuse of her authority! Now, I am ordering you, come down and spar with me.Red-faced from his outburst, his anger quickly turned to shame as Jukai gazed in disapproval, his voice barely more than a whisper. Young Master, the reason is irrelevant. Major Yuzhen issued an order backed by Marshal Shing Du Yi's authority. We are but soldiers, to follow orders our lot in life. The same can be said for Clansmen and Society Adherent, so should you ever find the burden of rank, clan, or society too onerous for your tastes, then relinquish them. Until such a time, our orders must be obeyed, but whatever path Young Master chooses, this lowly soldier will serve at your side.Left with no choice and no face, Zian stepped back into his carriage and suffered in silence. A disgraceful display, allowing his anger and frustration to get the better of him, throwing a tantrum like a child. He could only quietly thank Jukai for handling things quietly, without mockery or ridicule. Perhaps he was right, perhaps it was time for Zian to relinquish his ranking. Accepting it was a mistake to begin with, another childish tantrum born from the desire to adventure and escape from his shame.As for abandoning Clan and Society... Impossible. The Situ Clan paid dearly for his failure and his life, in more ways than one. Loss of face, loss of status, loss of reputation, though Mother hid these tidings from him, Zian knew they were reeling from their defeat. Now, with Nian Zu and Du Yi publicly declaring Baatar and Yuzhen their successors, the Society was rife with dissension and discord, squabbling amongst themselves instead of uniting to face their enemies.Ryong and ZhiLan glanced at him uncomfortably as BoShui sniggered. A blockhead who knows nothing but how to swing his swords. She avoids Shen Yun because she doesnt trust you or your Mother.Enough. ZhiLan cut in before Zian could retort. She trusts none of us, which is why she sent us away to Eastern Prosperity. It was the correct choice at the time, with no support aside from the Marshals. Things have changed now.So what now? We threaten her? Ive been dreaming of pulling the ice queen down from her high horse, the arrogant whore. Ryongs disgusting leer betrayed his intentions, almost drooling at the thought.Dont be foolish. Zian put an end to this line of thought. You think the Marshal a paper tiger? Without support from Clan and Society, he took and held the highest position of authority in the North for nigh on thirty years. Not a man to be trifled with, no less dangerous than Nian Zu.Wise words. Zhilan fluttered her eyes at him in teasing. And whos to say we need do anything? Her actions were brilliant, costing only the Council. Moreover, since her arrival in Sanshu, bandit activity aside from the Mothers Militia has all but stopped, earning the Society much-needed respect from the citizenry.Much needed after your clans failure at the Bridge. Never one to miss a chance, BoShui delighted in bringing up Zians defeat. The great Zian, defeated by a nameless savage. For shame.Taking a deep breath, Zian sat in silence as Zhilan and Ryong leaned back, removing themselves from the matter at hand. Realizing hed overstepped, BoShui paled and sat up straight, feigning confidence as he tried to resist Zians cold stare and suffocating Aura. His own Aura shattering beneath Zians assault, BoShui glanced away, shivering in fear as Zian spoke calmly, choosing to take the high road. Nameless savage no more. Since you think so little of him, Ill await your challenge to the Undying Falling Rain. I will be the first to thank you for regaining what face I have lost. The little runt would tear BoShui to pieces, laughing all the while. Even Ryong might not be a match for the ferocious warrior, to say nothing of Zhilan and BoShui.Leaving his Aura to suppress BoShui, Zian reached for his teacup and drank slowly, placing it down with an audible clink before releasing his Aura. So, we are in agreement, the matter of Yuzhen and her indiscretions will be left untouched. His tone left no room for argument. What else?Collecting herself, ZhiLan answered hurriedly. This must stay secret under threat of summary execution. Peering around the table for agreement, she took a deep breath before continuing, her voice a bare whisper. There's been a Demon sighting along with a band of Defiled. Our purpose in coming here is to aid in the Purge.Breaking out in a cold sweat, Zians stomach flopped as his mouth dried up. How reliable is your report?Beyond reproach. I received a sealed missive from my Sect Leader informing me the Purge has already been called and the Society has deployed the Shrike. We must all tread lightly.The Shrike, the Sanguinary Priestess, the Painted Inquisitor, the Mad Dog of the Society, whatever name she went by, it brought to mind tales of brutal bloodshed and appalling atrocities. Responsible for overseeing three Purges in the last decade, once set on the trail of the Defiled she never stopped until the deaths numbered in the thousands, ranting all the while of carrying out the will of the Mother. Her rallying cry, Better Dead than Defiled, was often followed by a massacre, caring little for nuances like her victims backing and allegiances. Hiding his shaking hands, Zian calmed his nerves as best he could, clearing his throat before speaking. Might I impose on Sister ZhiLan for a drink? Something stronger than tea perhaps.Ready for the request, ZhiLan poured out four measured cups herself, the harsh smell filling the pavilion and stinging his eyes. Raising the glass briefly, he tossed back the drink in one gulp before refilling it, saying a brief prayer for the citizens of Western Treasures Lake.Poor souls, bear no grudges for you have nothing to blame but fate. May you find joy and riches in your next life.Chapter Meme
