Hu Xiaotian knew he was still grieving over Xiao Rou. He sighed inwardly and did not press him further, but said with a smile, "For now, everyone should settle in without worrying. I hear the Red Yi Tribe takes Fast Day very seriously. Killing is strictly forbidden during this period, so even if their leader Baheer bears us ill will, he won't make any moves over the next three days. We can rest easy. Liang Yinghao, you and Xia Changming will be responsible for security at the Butterfly Garden."
"Yes!" After answering, Liang Yinghao noticed that Xia Changming had drifted off again and quietly nudged him with his elbow. Only then did Xia Changming come to his senses and hurriedly say, "As you command."
Hu Xiaotian then said to Zhan Peng, "You'll handle matters outside the grounds. Investigate the surrounding watchtowers. Find out whether troops are stationed in them and exactly how many."
"Yes!" Zhan Peng cupped his fist in acceptance of the order.
Hu Xiaotian dismissed everyone else, keeping Qiao Fangzheng behind. In a low voice, he asked, "Senior Qiao, it seems you intend to attend this Red Sea Assembly?"
Qiao Fangzheng nodded. "I must go. The Beggar Gang's very survival is at stake. How could I stand by and do nothing?" A mournful compassion showed on his face, and a bleak resolve to face death as a homecoming had already settled in his heart. Of course he remembered his earlier agreement to cooperate with Hu Xiaotian, but his deep-seated pride would not let him lower his head and bring it up. Unless Hu Xiaotian offered to help of his own accord, he would say nothing.
Hu Xiaotian sighed. "Please think this through, Senior." He actually made no mention of accompanying Qiao Fangzheng.
Qiao Fangzheng's heart grew even heavier.