Hu Ma went up first, not because he was determined to show off, but because he could see that the group of attendants was already scared out of their wits.
It was their first time accompanying Xu Ji, and ordinarily, they would have had some courage; they wouldn't have been so hesitant. But after such an unexpected event, their bravery had completely dissipated.
Even though they had lit the furnaces, the more afraid they were, the harder it was for the stove fire to burn. Forcing them to get closer would only make it easier for whatever was in the well to take advantage of them.
Once things get chaotic, I won't be able to control the situation, Hu Ma thought.
It was better to keep them farther away; at least they could stand firm and hold their torches securely.
Once they truly calmed down and their courage returned, the power of the furnaces would also become apparent.
So, he simply acted nonchalant, using the firelight from behind him to inch closer.
