They followed a winding sheep trail and crossed steep mountain valleys, proceeding cautiously the whole way. One careless step could send them plunging into the abyss, and that would be the end of them.
They could only lead their horses on foot. The mountain paths were terribly difficult to travel. It seemed Uncle Hei had no easy time earning this little bit of money.
Just as the two were about to cross the small pine grove, Wenlong stopped Uncle Hei and motioned for him to retreat.
Only after they had backtracked some distance did Wenlong speak. "Uncle Hei, you can leave me here. I've spotted an ambush up ahead. It's too dangerous."
"Huh? Why didn't I see anyone? Then, then..." Uncle Hei looked as though he wanted to say something but couldn't, his panic leaving him at a loss.
Wenlong knew he wanted to ask about his fee. Since they had not reached their destination, he was too embarrassed to bring it up.
"It's all right. I'll pay your fee in full, and you can have this horse too." With that, Wenlong paid him the balance and gave him the horse as well.
Uncle Hei was overjoyed. He had not even taken Wenlong to his destination, yet he had received such a generous gift. Unable to contain his delight, he thanked Wenlong over and over.
"Uncle Hei, hurry and go. This is no place to talk. Someone might come along, so you'd best leave quickly." Wenlong urged him to leave for his own safety.
After bidding Uncle Hei farewell, he rested where he was for a while and ate some dry provisions to keep his strength up.
*No matter what, I have to cross the border between the two kingdoms tonight and enter the Great Qing Kingdom. Once daylight comes,