"We intended for Junior Brother De Hou to send him to Great Virtue Temple directly, so as not to trouble you with this matter, Zen Master. However, Junior Brother De Hou insisted on reporting to you, so we had no choice but to bring him here."
In a single sentence, the three of them had drawn a clear line between themselves and De Hou in front of Zen Master Qing Nan.
If Zen Master Qing Nan were to assign blame for this, they couldn't be held accountable. It would be De Hou's responsibility, and his alone.
"Is there only one?"
Hearing De Yu's words, Zen Master Qing Nan couldn't hide his disappointment. He then looked over at De Hou.
"Since the result is in, I am now aware of the matter. Send him to Great Virtue Temple."
At this, Zen Master Qing Nan paused before continuing:
