Were they being called together?
It was clear that, in that moment, Hao Ke's surging will to survive had finally met some kind of obstacle.
He didn't say a word. His first instinct was to stare at Fu Qian's face, as if trying to tell whether he was joking.
It was obvious that, though he feared death, dragging his acquaintances into this situation was still a difficult choice for him.
Unfortunately, Fu Qian's demeanor remained calm, his smile carrying a warmth that was almost despairing.
"Why?"
In the suffocating silence, Hao Ke finally failed to maintain his earlier enthusiasm. Before answering, he asked for confirmation.
"I can't see what purpose that would serve. I can almost guarantee they don't know as much as I do."
Of course, he also explained his attitude, shaking his head as he spoke.
"Lately, nearly every one of them has laughed at me for worrying too much. As for the current situation in the Western Plains, they're mostly happy to see how things are going. What valuable information could they possibly offer under the circumstances?"
"You're certainly not modest."
After Hao Ke's defense, he sat there as if waiting for a verdict. Fu Qian seemed at last to be somewhat moved, rubbing his chin and giving a slight nod.
"But you're not wrong. When it comes to sensing danger, you're clearly one of the best in the entire Western Plains... So, it's up to you."
After offering what sounded like unqualified praise, Fu Qian even stood up. He waved at Hao Ke, who couldn't believe he was getting off so easily.
"I'll come back at dawn. You can call them here, or wait here alone. Either is fine—"
He paused, his expression half-smiling.
"Or you can leave."
"Of course not! You can find me