Chapter 041 – The Disappearances
When Li Yuan and Wen Xiaoqiao arrived at the central market, a squad of 60 menial workers bearing blades was already lined up on an open patch of ground near the market’s entrance.
This central market was somewhat special. If the entire black market island were likened to a fortress, then the central market was like a citadel within that fortress. It was surrounded by labyrinthine warehouses and high, gray walls, giving the whole area a somber look.
The only way in was through a narrow alley, the very same one where Li Yuan had heard women weeping when he first arrived. That alley was also where people were bought and sold. Past the alley, however, the space opened up dramatically into a broad clearing where the armed menial workers were waiting. Nearby stood rows of small buildings used for guard duty and temporary lodging for traveling merchants.
Li Yuan quickly surveyed the surroundings, then turned his gaze to the 60 menial workers. All of them were sturdy and stood at attention, each displaying a combat power of roughly 4~5.
“Young Master Li! Miss Wen!”
They greeted the two in unison before looking at them expectantly. Many onlookers around the black market also directed their attention toward the new arrivals.
Li Yuan glanced at Wen Xiaoqiao, noticing a spark of excitement in her eyes.
Wen Xiaoqiao spoke in a sweet, lilting tone, “How about we split these men in half—30 for you, 30 for me. Shall we?”
Li Yuan lowered his voice. “Miss Wen, have you thought about why there was an opening here in the central market in the first place?”
She paused, her smile fading into a more sober expression. Li Yuan continued in a serious tone, “Let’s not rush to divide anyone. We need to stick together until we figure out what’s going on.”
Wen Xiaoqiao chuckled, “You really do have good judgment, Young Master Li. I’ll do whatever you say...”
Li Yuan sighed. “If you call me Young Master Li again, I’ll start calling you M’lady.”