Shi Xiong carefully embraced the ancient instrument as he stepped down from the carriage, his hands trembling slightly, both out of reverence for the instrument and from the tension of the impending blood battle.
A dozen maids deftly and quickly moved the tables and chairs before Gong Simeng, setting up the instrument steadily and arranging the tea.
Their gazes were resolute, despite being women, showing no fear in this moment of crisis.
Liu Guihua hurried over, reaching out to take Gong Simeng's son from her arms, her movements gentle yet swift, allowing Gong Simeng to focus on playing her music.
Simultaneously, Liu Guihua retrieved the Spirit Snake Whip from her slender waist, it quivering slightly in her hand, like a poised spiritual snake ready to strike back at the bandits any moment.
