Hu Xiaotian said, "Grand General, can't you see that we're merely pawns of the Imperial Court? The real problem lies in the palace. Why should you and I wade into these muddy waters?"
A bitter smile touched Su Yuchi's lips. "I know nothing of what goes on in the palace, nor is it my place to ask." By now, he was certain that the man before him was indeed Hu Xiaotian.
Hu Xiaotian said, "If you truly understand that, Grand General, it may well be a blessing for the people of Great Kang." He lifted his teacup and took a sip. "I have absolutely no intention of harming you, Grand General. But since you're here, I would like you to stay in Eastern Liang Commandery for three days. After that, I will personally see you off, Grand General."
How could Su Yuchi fail to understand his meaning? "Are you placing me under house arrest, Lord Hu?"
Hu Xiaotian smiled. "Didn't you say that even if you had to stand beside my bed for two days, you would deliver His Majesty's words? This is our first meeting. Why not take the opportunity to deepen our understanding and trust? Sharing wine and pleasant conversation-wouldn't that be a delight?"
Qin Yutong sat in her room in a thick padded robe, hugging her knees. As soon as she had seen Hu Xiaotian return unharmed, she had gone back to Tong Ren Tang. Yang Fanxu's martial arts were far from ordinary. He had sent his Mystic Nether cold energy into her meridians, and since her martial arts were ultimately a notch below his, she had suffered an injury. Upon returning to Tong Ren Tang, she had immediately prepared a medicinal bath and circulated her energy to expel the cold poison. Even so, she remained weak.