Chapter 48: Separated and Watched
Rong Ye awoke with soreness in his wrists and ankles. The ropes binding him weren’t thick, but they held tight enough to restrict his movement to just a few centimeters.
He sat on the floor of a narrow, weathered wooden shed, where the scent of dampness lingered in every corner. Rusty tools hung on the walls or rested on dusty shelves. The air was cold and thick, as if it hadn’t circulated for years.
The gag scraped the corner of his mouth. He breathed through his nose, forcing himself to stay calm, resisting the rising panic. He knew panicking wouldn’t help. He knew too many things, but none of them would help now.
Then the door opened.
A hooded figure stepped inside, carrying a wooden bowl. Though his face was hidden, Rong Ye caught the calm, dark brown eyes, as if this were just another routine.
The stranger crouched down in front of him. Careful not to be rough, he untied the gag and laid it aside. Then, without saying a word, he lifted a steaming spoonful of what looked like a thick stew of meat and root vegetables.
The aroma was warm and inviting, a mix of garlic, onions, and gentle spices. It reminded Rong Ye of homemade food, cooked with care. Still, Rong Ye pressed his lips tightly, refusing the bite. He turned his face away, silent in defiance.
The man insisted. Once more. Another time. Without aggression. But Rong Ye didn’t move.
He understood cooperation was necessary. To survive, he had to keep his head low. Yet he also knew he meant nothing to them. He wasn’t strong, or important, or privy to secrets worth anything. All he had was his face. And he didn’t want to live long enough for them to end up using that, too.
The man sighed in frustration and put the bowl aside. Then, finally, he spoke:
"You don’t need to worry. Your friends are safe."
His deep, masculine voice carried a hint of lightness, never truly threatening.