Luting County, Drum and Bell Alley.
Fine salt-like snowflakes fluttered ceaselessly, within a courtyard transformed into a martial arts training ground.
Yang Ge, dressed in a thin, short outfit, held a wooden stick half a person tall and as thick as an arm, surrounded by six of his subordinates.
He circled warily without haste.
The six Embroidered Uniform Guards, armed with swords, shields, and crossbows, also took small measured steps as they encircled him.
"That's right, hold steady, look for opportunities, don't rush..."
Yang Ge expanded his awareness and adjusted his breathing as he spoke; no sooner had his words ended than he suddenly ducked, swinging the wooden stick in his hand to block a crossbow arrow devoid of its tip.
Timely, two bulky guards bearing half-person-tall cast iron shields stepped forward in unison, trying to enclose Yang Ge with one in front and one behind.
