Seeing how freely the two were enjoying themselves, Lou Xiu could hardly insist on anything. Showing too much concern would be inappropriate and could easily arouse suspicion. After all, they were not yet close enough to behave as casually as true friends. Even this visit had required the excuse that he was worried something had happened.
Having confirmed that nothing was wrong, he acted as though he could now rest easy, since they had reached the proprietress's place, and took his leave.
Shi Chun and his companion's retreat into the Vermilion Jade Pavilion did indeed leave the various parties somewhat helpless.
It was not that they truly had no way of dealing with them. Rather, none wanted to cause a disturbance and attract the attention of the others. Unless absolutely necessary, nobody would act without restraint. After all, none had the strength to do as they pleased. They could only send people to keep a close watch.
On a grassy rise amid waves of windblown grass, Zhu Xin came flying out once more and landed before Qiu Ben. He saluted and reported, "Master, someone else just made contact with those two who are secretly connected to that loafer Hua Chong. After leaving the city, this new contact headed for the Divine Mountain."
"The Divine Mountain?" Qiu Ben was surprised. He had no idea what the Divine Mountain meant by this. All of Distant Mountain City was its territory. Was such a maneuver necessary?
Zhu Xin added, "I've already contacted our people stationed at the Divine Mountain and told them to watch the exit, to see which faction this person belongs to."
Worried that leaving matters entirely to the disciples at the Divine Mountain might lead to trouble, Qiu Ben said gravely, "Keep a close eye on Shi Chun and the