Xie Yuan watched the escort team file out in a stream, men and horses like a dragon, then stood stunned for a moment before asking:
"Master Qin, was Head Zhao specifically waiting for me?"
"That's right. Before setting out, Head Zhao specifically told me that if you agreed, I was to bring you back directly so he could give you a few instructions. He said that with a new brother just arriving, it wouldn't do for him, as the head, not to be here."
Qin Hai answered with a smile.
Holding the Galloping Wolf Saber Art manual, Xie Yuan nodded and sighed.
"Head Zhao truly has the bearing of a bold and chivalrous hero."
"Right?"
Qin Hai chuckled and glanced at the booklet in Xie Yuan's hand.
"When newcomers join, they all practice the three basic saber forms passed down by the Chief Escort Leader. They accumulate merit, then exchange it for more advanced martial arts. Usually, they start with Fourth-grade techniques—
"The escort agency divides mission difficulty and martial art power into four grades—First, Second, Third, and Fourth—corresponding to the Outer Refinement Four Gates. Most escorts, once they've passed their adjustment period, can exchange for a Fourth-grade technique. That's about the level suited for First Level of Practice martial artists.
"But you followed Head Zhao, so you've got pretty good luck. This Galloping Wolf Saber Art is a Third-grade saber technique with considerable power. Plenty of escort masters, myself included, are practicing it. It's useful."
Third-grade? That meant it was a saber art corresponding to the Second Level of Practice?
Xie Yuan's spirits rose. He had gained something the moment he arrived. Coming here felt like returning home—he absolutely loved this place.
"Head Zhao said I could owe it for now. How much merit will I need to repay?"