Since the man in the flower-patterned robe spoke those words to Mu Xiaoxiao, he hadn’t been interested in seeing her. This was the perfect opportunity to escape! The tunnel started from under Mu Xiaoxiao’s bed, with another exit in a small alley near the man’s courtyard. As soon as it got dark, Mu Xiaoxiao dismissed all servants, saying she wanted to play with Lan Xiachen and that no one should disturb her. Soon, a slight sound came from under the bed, and Mu Xiaoxiao slipped in, with the leader of the ten-person group lifting the floorboard. “Hurry, we don’t have much time!” Mu Xiaoxiao said nothing more, turned, and began climbing down. Looking up, she saw Lan Xiachen still standing there in a daze. Mu Xiaoxiao grew anxious: “Lan Xiachen, are you stupid? Hurry up!”
Lan Xiachen sighed helplessly, then laughed at herself: She used to mock old scholars for sighing without reason, making up melancholy for poetry, and now she understands - youth doesn't necessarily mean being free from worry...
Farewell, man in the flower-patterned robe! Next time, find someone else to love. Let's encourage each other; I won't pursue Jin-ge-ge anymore. Lan Xiachen took a last look at the door, as if seeing the man in the flower-patterned robe, then dove into the tunnel.
To ensure speed, the tunnel was not dug deep, barely wide enough for one person. Everyone crawled silently, with only light or urgent breathing sounds. Lan Xiachen didn't know the destination or its meaning, only knew to follow and crawl out, hurrying as if rushing to an unknowing feast.
After climbing for who knows how long, they finally reached the exit. Mu Xiaoxiao followed and climbed out, seeing an abandoned house. Looking at the attire of these people in front of her – phew, finally out! Her imprisonment has ended! Mu Xiaoxiao jumped slightly, trying to suppress her laughter but unable to hide her smile, her big eyes curved beautifully. The leader of the ten-person group was immersed in her smile but quickly sobered up. He said, “My lady, we have already notified the master. They should now be attacking Xiao City, drawing their attention. This is our best chance to escape. We don’t have much time, we must hurry!”
“Okay!”
Breaking Through the East Gate
