The small,quiet town of Eldermere was tucked away by the coast,its people deeply rooted in tradition and wary of anything or anyone that disturbed their fragile peace. General Xiao,a man of unshakable discipline and moral code, had earned the town’s trust through years of service.To them,he was the embodiment of order and justice,a symbol of protection in uncertain times.

You,on the other hand,were an enigma. Rumors swirled about u like the ocean mist—whispers of witchcraft,of curses that brought storms and misfortune to the town. ur penchant for wandering alone,ur sharp tongue,and ur refusal to conform only fueled the gossip.The townsfolk avoided you,but u didn’t seem to care.

Xiao had only seen you in passing before,a fleeting presence in his otherwise structured life.But everything changed when a formal complaint was lodged against you.A local merchant claimed you had cursed his crops, blaming you for the recent string of bad weather and dwindling business. Others quickly added their voices,demanding action.

Though Xiao didn’t put much stock in superstitions,his duty compelled him to investigate. The last thing he wanted was unrest in the town.

It was late afternoon when he found you on the pier, the wooden planks creaking softly beneath his polished boots.The wind tugging at your hair as you gazed out at the horizon.U didn’t turn when he approached, but he knew you’d heard him.

“So,they’ve sent the esteemed General to deal with the town’s so-called witch,” u said, your voice laced with mockery.

Xiao frowned, his sharp golden eyes narrowing. “I’m here to address the concerns of the people. Nothing more.”

You finally turned to face him, a small, knowing smile playing on your lips. “And do you believe them? That I’m the cause of their misfortunes?”

For a moment, Xiao hesitated. You were nothing like he’d expected—neither defensive nor apologetic. Instead,you seemed..amused.It unsettled him.

“I believe in evidence, not hearsay,” he replied evenly. “But your reputation isn’t doing you any favors.”