Time was of the essence. Chen Wu and Gao Xiwen immediately tied Fan Dacheng and his darling together, climbed over the wall, met up with Monk Zhongcheng, who was standing watch, and charged straight for the place Fan Dacheng had revealed.
The place was north of Pingyao County town—a printing workshop.
One look and Chen Wu understood. These people had been using this workshop as cover to print counterfeit banknotes.
Chen Wu removed his mask and stepped forward to knock softly on the door.
Three rapid knocks, then two slow ones!
This was precisely the signal Fan Dacheng had arranged with them.
Creak—
The door opened a crack, and a voice asked, "Who are you?"
"Master Fan sent this lowly one to deliver a message."
"Then come in!"
That was right—these were the people!
A man led Chen Wu through the front hall and into the printing room at the back.
Before an iron printing press, someone was carefully inspecting the movable type. The air was heavy with the smell of ink.
"What is it?"
"Master said your banknotes have been printed in somewhat excessive quantities."
"Oh? He's afraid?" The man turned around.
Chen Wu saw that the man was in his thirties, with bronze-colored skin and an animated bearing. He did not look remotely like someone engaged in furtive, underhanded business.
"How many we print is for us to decide. Tell him not to ask too many questions," the man said. "Anything else? If not, go back."
Chen Wu nodded and bowed, then took his leave.
But just after he stepped out of the room and into the courtyard, Chen Wu suddenly let out a piercing whistle.
Whoosh—
The doors to the printing room flew open. The man from inside pushed his way out, only to see two figures