The two rode their magic artifacts low through the desolate mountains and wilderness far from the camp's usual patrol routes, deliberately taking several detours. Only when the sky began to brighten did they silently slip in through a secluded corner, relying on the faint resonance of their Identity Tokens to pass through the light screen of the camp's outer warning formation. Like drops of water merging into the sea, they attracted no attention whatsoever.
They did not go to the Hall of Affairs to report back, nor did they return to their respective alchemy rooms or residences.
"Alchemist Li, I'll find somewhere to hide and recuperate first. This time, the expenditure was truly no small matter, and I need to lie low for a while."
Li Sihai's face was pale and his breath weak. The successive battles, spiritual power depletion, and mental shocks left him wanting nothing more than to find a corner and lick his wounds.
"Brother Li, do as you please. Be careful in all things. Thank you for fighting by my side this time. Take care." Li Chengjie said solemnly.
Li Chengjie knew that their operation this time had been private. The gains were immense, but so were the risks. It absolutely could not be linked to an official mission; keeping a low profile and hiding themselves was their only choice.
Li Sihai waved a hand, forcing a knowing smile onto his face. "Why thank me? If it weren't for you, I'd have already met my end in that mine or inside the formation. If you ever need me, Li Sihai, come find me in the back alley of the Sundries Warehouse in Zone D!"
Having shared life and death, only to be betrayed by the same group of people, the two had formed a fragile trust