Zhou You looked at Shengyuan. After a few moments of thought, he spoke.
"Then should I find an opportunity to kill him?"
He did not ask why, offer advice, or make excuses. It was a simple question.
That was how Zhou You was. He repaid kindness and settled grudges. Shengyuan had protected Wang Chongming earlier and had just helped him again. Those two favors were enough for him to take revenge on her behalf.
Of course, True Person Chang Qing was the leader of one of the Thirty-Six Sects. Killing him would require careful planning. Zhou You could not rush it.
But Shengyuan shook her head.
"No need. I told you before, I don't feel anything for that sect. What I said just now was only..."
After a moment's hesitation, she swallowed the rest of her words. Her expression returned to its usual look of utter indifference.
"Forget it. Pretend I never said anything."
Zhou You did not press her. Instead, he changed the subject.
"Then how do you think I should answer him?" Shengyuan waved a hand.
"Do whatever you like. But let me warn you: True Person Chang Qing is notoriously cunning. That earnest smile of his has fooled who knows how many people. My sect leader was the same. If you really intend to work with him, be careful."
Zhou You nodded.
Shengyuan said no more and headed straight down the mountain path.
That night.
So much had happened that day that everyone else was exhausted. They had all gone to rest early.
Zhou You, however, had not gone to bed. He sat in the little courtyard of the Monks' Quarters with several dishes he had brought back beside him and a jar of wine at his elbow, taking an occasional drink.
It was