Meng stared down at the corpse for a long moment before finally turning back to Han Yu.
She didn't speak.
He stepped forward quietly, then gave her a small, approving nod.
"You did well."
Meng straightened up unconsciously. She hadn't realized until now how much she wanted his approval—but it was clear this man carried some hidden authority, and it affected her more than she liked to admit.
Han Yu looked at her more directly now.
"What's your name and designation?" he asked.
"Meng Jueyan," she replied. "Outer Sect Senior Disciple. I serve in the Discipline Hall."
Han Yu gave another small nod, as though cataloging the information.
Meng hesitated, then added, "May I… ask what I should call you?"
There was a long silence.
The wind rustled through the trees. The night was dark, but clear, and the scent of blood hung heavy in the air.
Then Han Yu spoke.
"You may call me Elder Yi."
Meng's eyes widened slightly. "Elder…?"
