"I am aware," Wang replied, his tone remaining composed. "But rushing forward carelessly will only put her in greater danger."
Wei Xiang stared toward the distant silhouette of the Citadel. "So... we continue to hold?"
"For now."
A younger officer stepped forward, unable to contain his anxiety. "Patriarch... what if they are mistreating her?"
A heavy stillness fell over the group. Every captain turned toward Wang.
Wang slowly closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. When he opened them, his gaze was remarkably steady. "If Cassian intended to harm her... he would have done so long ago."
Wei Xiang looked at him sideways. "You trust his restraint?"
"No," Wang answered plainly. "I trust her." He looked back toward the snowy peaks. "She will find a way. She always does."
Before the conversation could continue, an elderly physician carrying a wooden medicine box shuffled up to the group. "Young Master Wei Xiang!"
Wei Xiang blinked, looking over. "Doctor Han?"
