After resting for a while, the two of them got up and left. Jiang Cheng didn't spot any signs of the Japanese following them nearby. He couldn't tell whether they'd let their guard down or shifted more of their attention to the other teammates.
To be safe, they hailed two rickshaws and took a long, winding route before returning to the teahouse. They listened to a dull local tune, and Jiang Cheng swayed his head along to the music. He even pointed out the elegant couplet on either side of the teahouse entrance to Fatty: "The tea's fragrance comes from misty mountain heights; the water's sweetness carries the soul of snow and frost."
Fatty knew the doctor was talking nonsense. In truth, he was watching to see if anyone was keeping an eye on them. A little later, when no one was looking, the two slipped through the alley behind the teahouse and went straight to Baomo Zhai.
They knew the way and didn't bother with formalities, slipping inside. To their surprise, the old gentleman they'd met before was standing by the table, eyes narrowed in a genial smile. He looked as if he'd expected them all along.
"Gentlemen, this way, upstairs. My master has been waiting for you." After speaking, the old gentleman gave them a respectful bow.
Jiang Cheng couldn't quite read the old gentleman, but he was an elder, so he returned the greeting politely. Fatty followed suit, copying him in a rather convincing fashion. Then the two went upstairs.
Upstairs was an old-fashioned room. As soon as they opened the door, the fragrance of incense greeted them. The shopkeeper they'd met before had changed clothes and was seated at the table.
Jiang Cheng didn't stand on ceremony. He sat down casually. "Shopkeeper, it seems you knew