In the morning, watchman Xiaowu had stationed himself early on a hidden hilltop, and from afar, he spotted a group ascending the mountain; indeed, it was Xiao Jinsen who had arrived. Shortly after Xiao Jinsen, another small group came carrying a sedan chair up the mountain, presumably bringing Xie Ruiyao.
Xiaowu quickly returned to a remote wing of Nanshan Temple, informing Ye Qichi.
With a slight smile on her lips, Ye Qichi had a guard secretly descend the mountain to spread the news.
And then they waited for the right moment.
Meanwhile.
Inside a wing of Nanshan Temple.
Xiao Jinsen was naturally waiting inside for Xie Ruiyao.
He turned to his personal guard and asked, "Is everything well-guarded?"
"Reply to Prince, all pathways leading to Nanshan Temple are manned by our people. Apart from Miss Xie, no one else can ascend the mountain."
"But be cautious not to stir up unnecessary strife; it would tarnish my reputation."
"Your subordinate obeys."