Purple candles sent up wisps of smoke, filling the spacious room with the scent of herbs.
As the burly youth spoke, faint golden light seeped from the intricate Ritual on the floor. Xia Lun glanced at it, then flicked his gaze toward White Line.
"No problem," White Line whispered with a blink. "This is the Duty Fixation Ritual."
"You're awfully suspicious." The burly youth yawned and glanced at Xia Lun and White Line. "The sooner we start, the sooner we finish. Stop dragging your feet. I'm not being arrogant, but you've struck it lucky. Changing your Fundamental Duty is worth more than a Perth Coin."
"Don't rush them. Choosing a new Fundamental Duty is important, after all." Old Scarface smiled as he cut in. "It's right to be careful."
"Teacher, I'm not impatient, but the Great Leader keeps urging me to reinforce the Green Wall near Ravenhold."
"Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast, Laun. Remember that. Caution and patience are the secrets to staying alive." As Old Scarface spoke, he glanced at the Dancer.
The Dancer blinked timidly and edged half a step back. White Line cleared her throat and stepped forward.
"I'll go first," she said calmly. "What do I need to do?"
"First, show us your identity—"
Before he could finish, a hoarse, rough male voice came from the corridor. "Why are you running the Duty Fixation Ritual? Old Scarface, when did you get back?"
Old Scarface's smile vanished, and his hunched back suddenly straightened.
"Great Leader." Old Scarface lowered his gaze. "I met several survivors in Evil Serpent City. Some of them want to join us."
Xia Lun looked over. Several spear-wielding soldiers in white robes entered the room, dressed somewhat like the Decayed Dead in Evil Serpent City. At their center stood a gaunt man