Lin Mu remained standing before the village chief, his gaze lingering on the crest displayed upon the scroll.
The reaction from everyone present had already answered several of his questions. None of them had looked frightened and none had tried to hide the symbol. Instead their expressions had been filled with surprise and something else.
Respect mixed with gratitude.
That alone completely differed from what Lin Mu had expected. After a brief silence, he carefully rolled the scroll back together before looking directly at the burly man.
"I believe an explanation is in order."
The village chief remained silent for several breaths. The large man's eyes continued drifting toward the scroll as though trying to convince himself he had truly seen it. Finally, he spoke.
"Before I explain anything..." His voice remained calm, though traces of curiosity could still be heard. "...tell me how you obtained that crest."
