No Blessings from Illicit Worship

Although political corruption in the late Great Wei had rendered the prefectural troops all but dispensable, their weapons becoming mere showpieces that might snap at the slightest knock, and private armies had taken their place, the present dynasty had been founded only thirty-odd years ago. Its soldiers were strong and its horses sturdy; the prefectural troops still possessed considerable fighting power and commanded fear.

Qi Hongxin said no more and rose to leave. An ox cart would have been perfectly appropriate under ordinary circumstances, but the urgency warranted horses. Several runners brought mounts over, then swung into their saddles with Qi Hongxin and rode through the streets and straight out of the city gates.

The Water Shrine where the trouble had erupted was more than a dozen li away. By the time he reached the Water God Shrine after galloping all the way with his men, night had fallen.

Qi Hongxin dismounted. Although some farmers had gathered, there were only a few dozen, which eased his mind somewhat. Then he saw a village head hurry over to greet him, bowing with a frightened expression.

"How are things? Where is everyone?"

"My lord, I drove away the people making trouble here earlier." The village head suddenly hesitated, but continued, "A young Master Su helped me reason with them. He appeared to be a scholar."

"Who would have thought they would go and summon more people? They've gathered over a thousand villagers now and are heading this way. My lord, it's no longer safe here. Perhaps you should withdraw for now. If they find out you're here, I fear they may try to harm you!"

Qi Hongxin ignored this and merely frowned. "Who is leading this disturbance? Have you explained the consequences to him carefully?"

"I have, but he insists on carrying