Ling Yu almost laughed out loud.
Safe?
Hope?
She had already seen through the gilded mask of this fortress. The divine anchor at its center. The soldiers are bound by runes. The quiet disappearances of the strong and able-bodied.
And here stood Xu Mochen, playing the part of the benevolent lord while tightening the noose around everyone's necks.
Looks like there is a reason for that ridiculous cosplay.
Did his divine sponsor demand that he wear ancient costumes like this?
[System Window:
Xu Mochen
Title(s): Lord of the Fortress City (A) – Charisma-based influence over civilians; grants loyalty bonuses among weak-willed refugees.
Beloved by the Masses (B) – Boosts reputation when acting in public speeches or symbolic gestures.
Serpent in Silk Robes (Hidden Title: S-) – When betrayed or betraying, gains temporary buffs to persuasion and manipulation.