Blossoming Path

With Zhao Wen bound and gagged, slumped unconscious against the horse’s side, I mounted up and set out back to the village. My thoughts were a steady hum, all fixed on one purpose. Each passing mile stoked the fire inside me.

My fists gripped the reins even tighter, feeling the weight of the impending confrontation. I had sent letters through the Azure Silk Trading Company, informing Huan to be discrete and fast, but there was no guarantee they'd arrive in time—or at all.

"It's been three days since I sent the letters," I mused, gazing at the horizon. "If they received them, they should arrive today."

Still, today was the day Narrow Stone Peak would be exposed. Whether they arrive or not.

Hours later, the sky had lightened, casting a thin morning glow over the village square as I entered, Zhao Wen tied behind me like a heavy, irrefutable truth.

Villagers were already stirring, watching me in confusion, faces peeking out of doorways and windows, some beginning to follow as I made my way toward the center of the square.

I pulled the horse to a stop, hopped down, and with one strong tug, dragged Zhao Wen off the horse, dumping him unceremoniously onto the ground. The villagers gasped, inching closer. Some murmured, recognizing his face. Others stared at me, their shock mingling with concern, as they saw the quiet rage on my face.

"Is that my horse?"

I softened my expression, looking at Elder Wen.