Ji Huan's lips parted, but she didn't know what to say.
This was a gamble. They wouldn't just be facing a rigorous search and brutal punishment if caught. They would also have to deal with pursuit by hounds, starvation from lack of food and water, and the harsh, unpredictable weather in the mountains.
The odds were just too slim. Besides…
"But it just snowed."
"Snow itself isn't the problem. It's not cold when it snows, but when it melts. We'll just have to dress warmly and find a cave to hole up in… We'll be fine." Hu Liang's face relaxed a little, though it was unclear if he was comforting Ji Huan or himself.
While they were talking, Widow Xie had already finished packing everything.
She slung two bulging bundles onto Hu Liang's and Hu Dacheng's backs. "These are steamed buns and flatbreads. Eat them sparingly. If you get thirsty, drink melted snow."
After giving her instructions, she handed them the tied-up bedrolls.
