The two Masters of the Fishery and Chai Market, along with the Sitting Hall Master of the Martial Arts Hall and several notable Third-Practice Experts, gathered around a table at the Rain Praying Platform of the Dragon King Temple.
They were the local bullies whose very presence could make Black River County tremble, the unrecognized "county magistrates" of the five-hundred-mile mountain path and eight-hundred-mile Black Water River.
Torches blazed in the front hall, illuminating the surroundings and dispelling the inky darkness of the night.
Wang the Temple Priest, respected by the villagers, watched as the Child and miscellaneous tasks brought the food and drink, ensuring everything was in order, before wisely stepping back without any disturbance.
Before closing the door, he looked up and saw Bai Qi standing out among the distinguished figures, sitting upright with an imposing presence.
