Then memories answered his shocking confusion. He was standing in front of a character who defied many layers of logic. It would not be a surprise that the Clan Patriarch knew everything going on with the clan.
But the master had strictly instructed him to defend the fact that he was Lu Sheng, not a clone.
On the other hand, it was futile in front of the Clan Patriarch, so he was instructed not to resist. That was also in the instructions.
Two different, directly opposing directives warred within Abel's mind. Maintain the lie. Do not resist or disobey the Clan Patriarch. The conflict created a momentary internal stall, a flicker of uncertainty behind his usually vacant eyes.
Abel remained kowtowed, his forehead pressed against the cool metal floor. The heat from the forge washed over him, but the Patriarch's gaze felt far hotter, pinning him in place.
