Xu Yuan disappeared, and ancient zithers still played in the Qifeng Pavilion, serenading the air with celestial music, yet the great hall was now shrouded in silence.
At dawn, many remained indulged in the comfort of their beds, but equally many had already dressed and descended to enjoy their morning meal. The grand hall wasn't only occupied by Xu Yuan and Li Junqing's party of three, but also by various wealthy merchants, young nobles, and their guards and bodyguards.
Those with experience had largely discerned the layout of the situation within the hall, yet none stepped forward to intervene in the brewing conflict, choosing instead to silently retreat and observe from the sidelines, watching with detached interest.
Assassinations and vendettas were common in these times.
None wished to play the role of mediator in situations of unclear circumstances, especially when the powers involved on both sides were unfathomably deep.
