This creature wasn't exactly a dear friend or family member, but a simple situation had been made complicated, increasing the difficulty and risk accordingly. So, if you want me to continue helping with this matter, that's fine, but the corresponding reward must also increase.
Hu Ma wasn't using the opportunity to ask for a higher price. He was genuinely stating the fact.
Even Old Master Zhao understood this principle, but hearing about an increase in the price made him feel uneasy.
He had already agreed with the wealthy families of the surrounding villages that no matter which village the thing was traced back to, they'd all chip in for the 300 taels reward.
But now, it was confirmed that the creature originated from their own village, and asking for extra money might make the rich families of the neighboring villages unwilling to contribute.
Does that mean the money has to come from him?
