Hu Xiaotian knew Zhou Wenju had many of a bookworm's traits. Once a man like him lost his temper, he could easily get stuck in a blind alley. Hu Xiaotian did not mind him getting stuck; what worried him was being dragged down with him. He hurriedly reminded Zhou Wenju, "Mr. Zhou, a true man knows when to bend and when to stand tall. Although the Li family has declared independence, Western Sichuan is still their territory. We must be careful in everything we say and do. As long as the green mountains remain, there will always be firewood. Our most urgent task is to leave this place and report their rebellion to the court as soon as possible."
Only after Hu Xiaotian's reminder did Zhou Wenju realize that he was still under house arrest. Hu Xiaotian had revealed so much inside information partly because he trusted him, but more importantly because he wanted his help escaping the tiger's jaws. Zhou Wenju asked, "What would you like me to do, Lord Hu?"
Hu Xiaotian explained his plan in a low voice. He had already successfully aroused the suspicions of those around him. Along with suspecting that he had contracted the plague, they had begun to fear him. All that was missing now was an authoritative verdict. As long as Zhou Wenju said he had probably contracted the plague, everyone, including Li Honghan, would be desperate to avoid him, let alone take him to the Western Prefecture.
After discussing things with Hu Xiaotian, Zhou Wenju left the room with his mask still on. Only when he reached the courtyard did he remove it. The two guards on duty approached to ask about Hu Xiaotian's condition.
Zhou Wenju sighed. "In all likelihood, it is the plague. He fell ill after drinking water