Shao Yunduan's sneer betrayed his skepticism toward Grandmaster Miao's intentions. It was clear to him that they had not arrived with goodwill in mind.
Grandmaster Miao's scrutinizing gaze seemed to acknowledge this fact, as if she harbored no desire to conceal her true motives from him.
Given the brazen rudeness displayed by the bailiffs, it was evident that Grandmaster Miao's actions bore tacit approval from Prefect Liu.
Although Grandmaster Miao ostensibly represented Prefect Liu, Shao Yunduan had never crossed paths with the Prefect. In the two years since assuming his role in Anze Province, the magistrate's office had shown no interest in the region. Despite Shao Yunduan's attempts at reaching out, they remained aloof, granting him full autonomy over Anze Province.
Recognizing Prefect Liu's deliberate avoidance, Shao Yunduan ceased his efforts to establish contact.
