The gates of Sect Kaeryn swung open before anyone in Wei Liang's group made a move, and instead of guards pouring out to attack, a single figure walked calmly through the entrance alone, hands empty, posture relaxed.
"That's not a threat display," Xu said, wary. "That's an invitation."
"Could still be a trap," Garrow muttered, blade already loose in its sheath.
The figure approaching was younger than Wei Liang expected, maybe late twenties, plain robes without rank markings, face calm in a way that felt deliberate rather than natural. He stopped several paces out, bowing slightly, an oddly formal gesture given the tension crackling through the air.
"Wei Liang," the man said, voice mild, almost pleasant. "I've been looking forward to this."
"Bao Chen," Wei Liang said, more statement th
