Outside the Military Service Bureau.
Qin Zhonghai had just arrived. After taking part in the final discussion of the Genius Bait Plan alongside many of Red Cloud County's experts, he looked somewhat tired as he crossed the stone bridge outside the gate.
Suddenly, a terrifying presence drew near.
Qin Zhonghai's gaze sharpened. He turned to look and recognized the newcomer in the moonlight. He secretly relaxed and smiled.
"Pavilion Master, what brings you here?"
The newcomer was an old man dressed in fine clothes, imposing and dignified. He was none other than Lei Wanchun, Pavilion Master of the Heavenly Secret Pavilion in Red Cloud County.
Lei Wanchun appeared before Qin Zhonghai like a ghost. He glanced around and said:
"With the Earth Dragon Beast rampaging, it isn't just the young martial arts geniuses in the city who are in danger. Many experts could also draw its attention.
"Though you've all been cautious lately and haven't given the beast many chances, you should still avoid going anywhere alone.
"I have a faint feeling that something is watching me from the shadows. It could be the Earth Dragon Beast, lurking and observing us!"
Qin Zhonghai nodded. "The Pavilion Master makes a good point. I was supposed to leave with Feng Buping today, but Zhou Zhen called him away, so I ended up alone."
As they walked and talked, Lei Wanchun said:
"As a disciple of the Lingyun Sect, Zhou Zhen seems to have decided to retire in this little county. He's making a big show of things, gathering people and forming cliques. Hmph!
"But that's none of our concern. How did today's discussion go?"
Qin Zhonghai lowered his voice. "After several rounds of checking for oversights and plugging gaps, we've settled on the plan. We'll set it in motion tomorrow!"
"Good. We