Kneel, A Supplicant Must Have the Posture of a Supplicant

The atmosphere in the West District courtyard was taut with tension, a spark away from erupting into violence. The City Lord of Night City made it clear to Serena Feng—he wasn't just bluffing. If she dared defy him, blood would flow through the courtyard.

Whether Serena Feng truly hadn't understood, or was simply fearless, she stood her ground, unmoving. She faced the City Lord of Night City head‑on, her chin lifted ever so slightly, stubborn defiance plain on her face.

Serena Feng's unyielding posture left the City Lord of Night City deeply dissatisfied. At his signal, a guard stepped forward, threatening again: "Serena Feng, didn't you hear the City Lord's order? Go fetch the medicine chest—if you delay Young City Lord Reid Yale's treatment, not even ten lives could pay the price."

"I have no intention of paying for your Young City Lord's life," Serena Feng replied coldly, a mocking smile on her lips.

"Serena Feng, don't refuse a toast only to drink a penalty!" The guard made as if to draw his sword, but the City Lord of Night City quickly played the peacemaker: "Enough. Show proper respect to Doctor Feng."

Hard, then soft—the City Lord of Night City wanted to cow Serena Feng with force, then soothe her with a few kind words, hoping she'd feel grateful for his mercy.

"Doctor Feng, Night City is not unreasonable. As long as you cure my son, your fee will be paid in full. I've heard your consultation fee is a thousand taels of gold. Bring in the payment!"

Ten chests of gold were carried in and arranged in a neat row before Serena Feng, each one gleaming temptingly. For anyone from ancient times, such a sight would be irresistible—but for her, it was nothing.

Though the Nine Provinces Realm used silver and gold as currency, Serena Feng was a modern woman—paper money would tempt her far more. If the City Lord had laid out ten chests of cash, she might've actually paused to consider.

Wealth can move hearts, and most people find it hard to resist. But Serena Feng wasn't short on money, and the City Lord's gold wasn't much of a lure. Add his arrogant posture, and she wasn't intimidated in the least—he was bound to be disappointed.