After bidding farewell to the Old Mountain Lord, Fang Shu lingered no longer outside the mountain gates and headed straight for the Five Viscera Temple.
He sent a signal outside the gates, and before a day had passed, members of the Jin Family appeared to escort him inside.
However, contrary to Fang Shu's expectations, entering the mountain proved far more troublesome than leaving it.
Even with the Jin Family providing cover, the inspectors not only took out Fang Shu's identity token but also made him demonstrate the Five Viscera Temple's inner disciple arts. They used some unknown method to sweep over his Storage Bag, though they stopped short of making him open it for inspection.
Although the inspector concealed his face, he was clearly an old hand from the temple's Household Hall. His eyes were sharp and discerning; he was certainly not someone to trifle with.
Once the inspection was complete, Jin Duobao offered up a weighty Storage Bag. The inspector hefted it a few times and tucked it into his sleeve before finally leading Fang Shu through the formation and back into the temple.
After successfully passing through the mountain-protecting formation, both Jin Duobao and Fang Shu breathed great sighs of relief.
Jin Duobao remarked with a smile, "Brother Fang, your steps have been light and your manner composed throughout the journey. I take it your visit home went smoothly."
Fang Shu immediately cupped his hands toward Jin Duobao.
"Your kind words have come true, Brother Duobao. Everything has indeed been settled."
He paused, then adopted a serious expression.
"This time, Brother Duobao, you vouched for me as a member of the Jin Family's main line and spent a considerable sum besides.
"I owe you a favor for this. If you ever need anything in the future, please don't