Chapter 27: The Commanders Offer
Lin Shae's report arrived was what Commander Xu had expected.
Xu Meifen read it while grinding ink for her evening calligraphy, the brush was balanced on the stone beside her and her hair was still damp from her morning washing and it hung loose past her shoulders. The silk robe she wore was the color of sapphire with a loose and low cut and it was chosen for comfort.
"He asked to see the administrative district first," Lin Shae said, standing near the door. "Then the trade quarter. And then the communal gathering spaces."
Xu set down the ink stone. "He didn't want to see the markets?"
Lin Shae shook her head. "He showed no interest. He asked about governance, taxes, and administration." Lin Shae paused. "He also asked where people learned to read. I explained the military and administrative paths. He said it was a shame there was no school."
Xu Meifen cupped her chin. "What about you?"
Lin Shae understood the question. "His gaze met mine when I introduced myself but it didn't linger much. Then he looked away and asked about the administrative district. He didn't ask me any personal questions, nor did he attempt to isolate us." A small pause. "He treated me as a guide and nothing more."
Xu laughed.
Lin Shae blinked.