After breakfast, Wei Xuanfeng reminded Jiao Xiaoxiao, "Be good. Don't disturb Jiao Yu's rest."
The three changed into clean clothes and walked through the corridors together toward the Northern Pacification Bureau's drill ground.
Along the way, Wen Shihan was unusually quiet. Wei Xuanfeng did not ask, assuming she was preoccupied with going home tomorrow.
Fox Murong, on the other hand, was still chirping away, as noisy and lively as ever.
Judging by her manner, she had probably recovered completely.
Only upon reaching the drill ground did Wei Xuanfeng realize there were far more people here than usual.
The steps around the drill ground were dotted with groups of people. Some leaned against weapon racks, while others squatted by the walls gnawing on steamed buns. When they saw the three enter, their gazes converged on them in unison.
Wei Xuanfeng swept his eyes over them. They were all demon slayers of the Northern Pacification Bureau...
Blade soldiers, Banner Officers, Chief Banner Officers—even several Hundred-Household Officers who rarely showed themselves on ordinary days were present.
After greeting Fox Murong, these people turned their eyes to Wei Xuanfeng.
Wei Xuanfeng noticed their hushed whispers as well, though he could not make out what they were saying.
But their eyes clearly said, "That's him."
"Xuanfeng, you're here."
Just then, a voice called out to Wei Xuanfeng.
Looking over, Wei Xuanfeng saw Wu Santong standing atop the three-foot-high stone platform in the center of the drill ground. Its surface was paved with bluestone slabs, and at each of its four corners stood a toothed banner with a black field and red lettering, their edges snapping and curling in the morning wind.
Below the platform stood four blade soldiers on each side, holding embroidered spring blades as they stood at attention, blade tips planted against the