The Reason for the Rescue

"At last..." The chief jailer let out a breath. "Master, are you here to treat someone?"

"Indeed." The responder's voice was somewhat low. "Where is the victim?"

"Please follow me."

Then came the clank of chains being pulled free. Tsi Qing sensed two figures approaching her.

She struggled even harder.

Even though it brought excruciating pain.

Yet no matter what she did, she could not break free of her restraints. A wave of despair rose in Tsi Qing's heart.

"This person... I fear she cannot be saved." The man addressed as Master seemed to be examining her. "Continuing treatment would only add to her suffering, unless Master Ditian himself takes action—"

"I didn't ask you to cure her." Another person suddenly spoke, someone whose presence Tsi Qing had not noticed at all. "You only need to make sure she still has a breath left."

"A breath? How long must it be maintained?"

"..." The latter speaker seemed hesitant. After a while, he said impatiently, "At most seven days."

"My Buddha is merciful." The monk sighed. "This humble monk does not understand the meaning of doing this. It would be better to let her rest in peace sooner, sparing her further torment—"

"Enough. That is not your concern!" The man cut him off directly. "Lord Kaiyang Envoy hired you not to listen to this nonsense. You need only do as we say. Then the temple will not be short a single copper coin in payment. Otherwise... you should know the consequences."

The monk sighed again. "This humble monk understands."

Footsteps receded into the distance.

The cell door creaked shut as well, and the surroundings abruptly fell silent.

A hand rested on Tsi Qing's forehead.

The Green-faced Ghost realized that this person had not pledged allegiance to the new conquerors. This might