Playing House

Lu Yao carefully dismantled the barrel of Barrett's gun and maintained it meticulously, while Liao Qe studied with keen interest by his side.

At that moment, the eunuch Zhang Jin arrived to convey a message from Li Pei about her imminent return to the Imperial City:

"The Commandery Princess will be staying in the Imperial City for a few days and made a special point of having me to come and inform you. The National Martial Arts Association hopes you will take extra care."

Liao Ya solemnly bowed with fists clasped and responded, "We will do our utmost." Then he asked, "Your Highness… she won't be in trouble, will she?"

In broad daylight and in front of everyone, Li Pei had delivered a fatal blow to her betrothed—the Young Master Xiang. The news had already spread far and wide.

Zhang Jin forced a smile and said, "Master Liao need not worry; the Commandery Princess will return soon. I should not tarry; please excuse me."