At noon, in the main hall of the County Magistrate's Office's rear courtyard.
Six Gang underlings sat on chairs, looking somewhat dispirited even after washing up. They stared nervously at Cheng Zongyang, who sat in the seat of honor.
"You've all worked hard."
Cheng Zongyang said with a warm smile:
"I know traveling has been difficult lately. But the Gang will not treat you unfairly. No matter the outcome, you will receive the promised rewards."
"Thank you, my lord!" the six men responded in unison, standing and bowing with cupped fists, their faces alight with excitement.
The original promise was that after they returned from their reconnaissance mission, they could become Martial Artists as part of the first batch of trainees.
Now, hearing Cheng Zongyang himself confirm it, they felt it was a sure thing.
Cheng Zongyang then pulled their excited thoughts back to the matter at hand, saying:
