Chapter 85 - 84: Leaving the City, Entering the Mountains, Doubling Back to Kill
If I haven’t guessed wrong, the one throwing stones into my courtyard must be Han Dali.
During Jiang Shu’s three-day observation, Han Dali appeared as two different people before and after visiting the Zhou Family Tavern. In public, he seemed to fully integrate into the Zhou Family Tavern, becoming a part of it. In private, however, he trained even more fiercely in martial arts.
A man with hopes of becoming a Martial Artist... How could he be content, bound by a contract, trapped in a tavern for life? Putting myself in his shoes, if he wanted to successfully leave the tavern, he could only wait for the Zhou Family Tavern to collapse on its own. In the past, there might not have been a chance. But now...
Jiang Shu narrowed his eyes. Clearly, during this period, Han Dali has grown a lot. Throwing stones toward my courtyard was a warning to be cautious. My noticing it meant the Zhou Family Tavern would naturally decline day by day. If I were to show Zhou Yang that note, he wouldn’t be able to deduce who sent it. He, Han Dali, could still remain securely within the tavern. At the very least, he wouldn’t have to worry about food and drink, living much better than the average civilian. This is getting somewhat interesting. A pity he realized it too late. If he’d understood a bit sooner, his fate wouldn’t be like this. The martial arts hall needs money; one can borrow it. Once one becomes a Martial Artist, wouldn’t repaying a few dozen silvers be easy?
Jiang Shu had no intention of contacting Han Dali. Like a hungry tiger stalking its prey, he patiently bided his time.
If something isn’t to be done, then don’t start it. But if it is to be done, it must be done thoroughly and cleanly. Not only to resolve all troubles but also to reap a handsome profit from it. My time is valuable, after all.
He practiced his stances and breathing exercises.
「Finally, one evening」
Zhou Yang, dressed like the son of a wealthy family, went to Skylark Square, meeting Yao Wenbai at the entrance. The two conversed; clearly, this was not their first meeting.
Countless candles illuminated the gauze windows of the tall pavilions, their light casting alluring silhouettes of women, as captivating as flowers swaying like willows. Even before one stepped inside, waves of perfume washed over the arriving guests.