"Indeed! Especially now!" A trace of worry flickered in Zi Ming's eyes. "Zi Yan died by my hand, and Ji Man has not yet received the news! I have already sent trusted people out to intercept them beyond Houtu Village. The moment they discover any of Zi Yan's subordinates, they are to kill them at once! I only wish that before the Witch Elder returns, Ji Man will not learn the truth. If she tears all pretenses aside and strikes, all of us will die without even a place to be buried!"
Xiao Hua was not skilled in such schemes and intrigues, so he could not discern the dangers within. Yet after hearing Zi Ming's words, his heart gave a jolt, and he said quietly, "Zi Ming, Ji Man of Houtu Village seems very kind to me. She would not be as sinister as you imagine, would she? Besides, Zi Yan was possessed by Demonic beings. Ji Man might not necessarily... You... you might as well lay everything bare directly..."
"One must not harbor the intent to harm others, but one must always guard against others' harm. Xiao Lang, before Ji Man, I am at a disadvantage. I dare not make a few extra preparations! Even... even when we built an empty grave for Zi Ye a few days ago, that was originally an excellent opportunity. All the Ji Man and Witch Elders were present. If I had revealed Zi Yan's matter, before so many people, it would presumably have offered me some protection... But I hesitated for a long time and still did not dare say it to her face, fearing I would diminish Ji Man's dignity and provoke her anger! Without the Witch Elder, without... Xiao Lang by my side, I do not dare make the slightest move!"