The scholar said, "Chief Escort Leader Lu, we have troubled you. But this is only a temporary measure; it will be lifted in a few days. We will cover all losses suffered by your escort agency."
Chief Escort Leader Lu cupped his hands. "Commander Zhou, you are too polite. Elder Xi of your sect once saved my life. If I refused such a small favor, would I not be worse than pigs and dogs? Please do not mention compensation again."
Commander Zhou, however, disagreed. "Chief Escort Leader Lu, you are mistaken. Your friendship with Elder Xi is one matter, while your willingness to help us with such a major favor for Elder Xi's sake has already made us very grateful. Delaying your escort agency's business is a matter of public duty. We cannot sacrifice public matters for private ones. Besides, this is also our gang leader's intention, so please do not refuse any longer. Otherwise, when I return to the gang, I will have no way to explain myself to Elder Xi. We cannot let Elder Xi mock me for taking advantage of someone else because of him, can we?"
"Hahaha!" Chief Escort Leader Lu laughed aloud. "In that case, I shall not stand on ceremony. Many thanks for your gang leader's generous regard."
Commander Zhou smiled as well. "Likewise, likewise. We must also thank Chief Escort Leader Lu for your generous hospitality."
The two drank tea for a while longer, then Chief Escort Leader Lu asked, "Commander Zhou, this is already the fourth day, yet there is still no sign of the people and item you mentioned. I assume they have already left Danhe City?"
"Perhaps. Brothers from the gang have already pursued them along the road, but no news has returned so far. Hall Master Qiu also returned