Once Han Shuo and Lolth had rushed out of Veilshade City, they were actually safe. Cover lay everywhere throughout this vast mountain range, and no barrier constantly shrouded the sky. Like a fish entering the sea or a bird soaring into the sky, Han Shuo no longer worried about falling into layers of encirclement.
No longer racing desperately onward, Han Shuo used the Demon Heads' omnipresent vision to lead Lolth through the forest, darting and weaving as he searched for the best hiding place.
A cliff face amid the mist became their temporary refuge. Once Han Shuo and Lolth had settled on it, he breathed out softly and smiled. "Thick mist swirls around here. Unless an expert like Hofus comes over, no one can possibly detect our tracks. Let's rest first and wait for those people from Veilshade City to search their way here."
Han Shuo had left the people from Veilshade City far behind. They would need some time to search this far, allowing him and Lolth to rest and await them fresh.
"Could you... let go now?" Lolth lowered her head and eyes and spoke softly.
Han Shuo froze, only then realizing that he was still holding Lolth's hand. With an awkward laugh, he immediately released her, sat cross-legged where he stood, and closed his eyes to regulate his breathing.
"How are your injuries? Are you all right?" Lolth hesitated before asking quietly.
Opening his eyes to look at Lolth, Han Shuo smiled and shook his head. "I'm fine. Don't worry."
"Thank you for holding them off and letting me leave first," Lolth thanked him.
Han Shuo could feel the change in Lolth's attitude. Accustomed to her silence and occasional cold remarks, he found her sudden concern somewhat hard to adjust to. After a moment's pause, he said