By the time the two returned from their mountain patrol, it was already noon.
Wen Ning's legs ached a little from all the walking, but Rabbit Spirit A was still full of energy, both ears standing straight up. He was still humming that song, singing it over and over without getting tired of it.
Before they reached their lodgings, they heard a noisy commotion coming from the clearing in the distance.
"What are you doing? Why did you bring us here?"
"Exactly! This is kidnapping! In broad daylight!"
"That's right! I'm calling the police on you!"
Wen Ning stopped and exchanged a glance with Rabbit Spirit A.
Rabbit Spirit A's ears swiveled toward the noise like two little radar dishes, curiosity spreading across his face.
"Well, well, what's going on here?"
They quickened their pace and rounded a row of wooden cabins. The sight in the clearing made Wen Ning freeze.
A crowd of more than a dozen people stood in the clearing, men and women, young and old. Some wore outdoor jackets, some carried backpacks, and a few had cameras hanging around their necks.
A textbook tour group.
At that moment, they were huddled in the middle of the clearing, looking utterly lost, their faces full of confusion and fear. Several suitcases lay scattered nearby, along with a tour guide's flag that had been tossed on the ground. Written on the flag was:
Everyday Travel Agency Northeast Scenery Three-Day Tour
Hedgehog Spirit stood in human form in front of the crowd, hands on his hips, shouting at the tour group with complete confidence.
"What's all the racket? What's all the racket? What have we done to you? We're not taking your money!"
Beside him stood a man in a thick padded coat, with a pointed face, narrow eyes, and