PD Xu Cui stared at the empty surroundings, every sense stretched taut. Soft midday light pressed into the narrow alcove between the buildings, casting short, sharp shadows against the rough walls. The quiet sounds of the village felt farther away than they should have.
"Show yourself," he commanded, voice stripped of warmth. His eyes swept the narrow space. Fists clenched at his sides, he pushed away from the wall and walked slowly toward one particular corner, bracing for whoever might step out. The soft scrape of his shoes against the packed earth was the only sound for a moment.
Soft rustling of fabric answered him. And a moment later, the hidden figure finally emerged.
PD Xu Cui's steps halted. He blinked rapidly, the cold tension on his face fracturing into pure confusion.
"Sir?"
