Ayaki Yuriko's escape is bad news that doesn't seem to make Chongzong nervous.

Upon hearing about it for the first time, he doesn't panic.

His initial reaction is, "Oh, this woman has fled."

Only then does he start to consider what adverse effects her escape might have.

Chongzong couldn't immediately figure out what the negative consequences might be.

Gradually, it occurs to him that the woman might return to Bai Yaxin to inform on them, passing on some information and such.

But that's all beside the point.

First, the woman no longer holds any value for Chongzong; all the information has been squeezed out of her, and she can't be used as a bargaining chip in negotiations with Bai Yaxin because Bai Yaxin doesn't care about her fate.

Second, despite being detained by Chongzong's group for a long time, she didn't obtain any valuable information from them, so even if she goes back to Bai Yaxin, she poses no threat to Chongzong's group.

After a full circle of thoughts, Chongzong feels that this matter is indeed trivial.

-"If this woman runs away, so be it; she's no longer useful." Chongzong drew this conclusion.

"No problem, you've worked hard during this period, watching her for so long, you've had it tough." (Chongzong)

"Eh? Is it okay to let her go? Shouldn't we try to bring her back?" (Hayami)

Hayami, who thought the situation was dire, relaxed upon hearing Chongzong's indifference, and his tone was filled with a nonchalant attitude.

"Mm, no need to look for her; let her go…" (Chongzong)

At this point, a bad idea flashed through Chongzong's mind.

That's when he realized he had been too naive just now.

This situation is more serious than he had imagined.

"No, Hayami, this woman is not to be underestimated; be careful of her returning for revenge after regrouping!" (Chongzong)

The thought of this woman possibly coming back for revenge sent shivers down Chongzong's spine, making him anxious.

Just a minute ago, he thought this matter was insignificant.

But now, considering the possibility of retaliation, Chongzong suddenly felt danger lurking.

Especially when recalling how he and Hayami treated the woman during her captivity, Chongzong grew even more concerned.

Dealing with Bai Yaxin's situation was tough enough, and this just added insult to injury.

"…" (Hayami)

Upon hearing Chongzong mention revenge, Hayami froze, too scared to speak.

"Moreover, Hayami, this woman isn't straightforward; if she seeks revenge, she'll probably use underhanded methods." (Chongzong)

"So tread carefully during this time, in all matters – traveling, eating…everything you can think of and beyond." (Chongzong)

Chongzong was instructing Hayami, but he was also reminding himself.

He is guilty with Sumi, and if this woman seeks revenge, she will definitely not spare Chongzong. Chongzong isn't afraid for himself, but he worries about the people of the Uesugi family and Koga Mizuo. Fortunately, in order to prevent Bai Yaxin, Mizuo has already been brought to live with the Uesugi family, and all security measures have been meticulously implemented.

- Be cautious, watch carefully, and wait for changes.

"Sumi, whenever you need help, feel free to come find me." (Chongzong)

Chongzong feels somewhat guilty towards Sumi, as it was him who implicated Sumi in this matter, otherwise he wouldn't have suffered.

"Uh... Alright, I'll take a break for now..." (Sumi)

But Chongzong's words do not bring any comfort to Sumi. The direction of this matter will eventually become even more unpredictable and mysterious.