Mineral Town.
After the execution ended, dusk had fallen once more.
Orange light intertwined with pale violet twilight, forming a sky as beautiful as an oil painting.
Only after thanking Karen for a long while did the townsfolk gradually disperse. Xian was preparing to leave as well.
"My lord, someone claiming to be the village chief of Fruit Basket Village wishes to see you."
At that moment, Black Wolf Castle's steward, Old Xiao En, stepped before him and spoke respectfully.
Robert. Had he come to watch the execution too? "Bring him over," Xian said.
"Lord Mingyu, may the gods bless you."
Robert greeted him as he bent down, preparing to kneel on both knees, but Xian stopped him in time.
"There is no need to kneel, Mr. Robert. It has been a long time. What brings you to see me?" Xian said, taking his arm and gently helping him up.
"Lord Mingyu, I wished to ask about the recent circumstances of Anlìyà and Berg. They are still young, and I worry they may not have served you well."
Robert looked hesitant, and a trace of concern flashed across his deeply lined face.
"Rest assured, they have both fulfilled their duties as maid and attendant admirably. On the contrary, I should thank you for raising these two capable aides for me."
Xian smiled faintly and gently patted his shoulder.
He still held great respect for this diligent old village chief. The man gave him the impression of a model worker who selflessly devoted himself to his post.
"That is good." Robert let out a long breath, as though a weight had been lifted from his heart.
"Lord Mingyu, the reason the lord executed so many villains and donated grain to the villages must have been at your instruction, correct?"
Xian nodded