The arrogant man's steps halted only briefly after Meng Bai's subtle warning.
He turned once more, fury in his eyes as if the mere notion of being challenged had scratched the polished surface of his ego. With a sharp flick of his wrist, a crimson-bladed sword slipped into his hand, the glint of its edge catching the light from a nearby Earth Flame lamp.
"You dare insult me and think to walk away unharmed?" he barked. "You think because you've got a few beasts and a mouth on you, you're untouchable?"
Meng Bai tensed. His hand subtly reached into his robes, fingers brushing against the jade slip tied to his inner belt. With a silent pulse of spiritual will, he sent a quick message to Daoist Chu: "He drew his sword. Should I run?"
