The afternoon in Lutai Town was bustling, likely because the residents believed the government office's announcement that the demon had been captured, so life had returned to its usual vivacity. Stalls lined the streets, jugglers and entertainers performed, and snacks were sold, springing up like bamboo shoots after rain.
Xuanji moved from one stall to another, one moment examining wooden toys, the next feeling various stone and root carvings, her leisurely demeanor not that of someone on a rescue mission, but rather of someone out shopping.
Zhong Minyan tugged at her sleeve from behind and whispered, "Hey, can we get to the important stuff first? There'll be plenty of time to shop later."
Xuanji stuffed a steamed cake into her mouth and mumbled unclearly, "I know, but you two look so tense, as if you're up to no good. Everyone is watching you."
The two quickly looked around and, sure enough, many people were staring at them, some even whispering among themselves.
