The square was silent again.
Only the sound of the fountain water falling softly behind them could be heard.
All eyes turned toward the Monk.
Zhāng Yǔzé slowly stood up from his kneeling posture.
He folded his hands respectfully toward Miles before speaking.
"Apologies, Mr. Elias."
His voice was calm, but respectful.
"I remember something from my younger days."
Everyone watched him carefully.
"During the days of my training, my master took me across several provinces. We traveled to observe tournaments of ancient clans."
His eyes moved briefly toward Maddock.
"And during those visits… I learned to recognize certain movements."
He exhaled slowly.
"The move Master Maddock performed earlier at the gate…"
His gaze sharpened.
"It belongs to one of the ancient martial clans."
Several men looked at Maddock instinctively.
Maddock simply stood behind Miles, arms folded, expression unchanged.
The Monk continued.
"And if Master Maddock calls him Young Master…"
