"Indeed, it is." Dai Xin said, confessing to extortion as easily as another might say "why yes I did get a haircut, thanks for noticing." He didn't look proud of the fact, but nor did he look ashamed. He didn't even react to Kyang's disapproving look or tone of voice. There was a word for what he was doing, extortion fit the definition, and he didn't care one way or the other about it. "Many others have been angry with me, but I am glad to accept their challenge any time. It is thanks to them that I am able to eat and afford lodging through my travels, as I cannot open my own school right now."

As they sat down, Dai Xin chose the seat that placed his back closest to the wall, and sat facing the rest of the establishment. Just once he slowly turned his head, sweeping his gaze from the entrance all the way to the opposite side of the dining hall, towards the kitchens.

"Indeed, young master," he called to Liu alongside Kyang. "Are you sure only thirty will be enough? Also, may we have tea?"