( there's no response to his actions from elsewhere, at least not immediately. wei wuxian had only stuck around enough to ensure he didn't hear any pained responses after a weapon draw, and then he was undoing locks and freeing 'tributes' who, at least in majority, swarmed forward and out. two come to a pause by moran, looking between him and the guard on the ground, fearful. is he a guard too? does he want something worse, or more immediate?

the third just walks right out and scampers away into the shadows, which isn't actually helpful, considering where in the area does this person expect to be going?

it's the final two that wei wuxian appears with, wrestling them forward and holding onto their collars with a wan expression on his face. )

The problem with a system of tribute is it doesn't stop the problem, and only keeps those paying tribute in line out of fear. We'll handle it, thank you, please stop trying to run straight toward death.