Submission

However, when his gaze fell upon An Yao's face and he saw the pleading look in her eyes, the words he had originally wanted to say were swallowed back into his throat. She must have her reasons for suggesting this.

"I think An Yao has a point," Jīn calmly spoke up.

"Killing them outright would be too easy on them, especially when the city is in dire need of labor to rebuild. Let them help with the city's reconstruction before we carry out their punishment."

The city lord's face showed some hesitation, but when he met Jīn's resolute gaze, he bowed respectfully and said, "As you wish, my lord."

"Lord?" An Yao finally realized what had just happened and looked at Jīn with astonishment. She cautiously tugged at his sleeve and asked, "What's going on with the city lord? Why is he addressing you so respectfully?"

"Just as you thought," Jīn replied with a hint of amusement in his eyes. He took her hand and lightly squeezed it.