The chapter opens with a tense confrontation between Wie Kie-hong and Leng Souw-hiang. Wie Kie-hong is upset because Leng Souw-hiang is dismissing his concerns about his father, Wie Ceng. Despite being told to leave, Wie Kie-hong decides to seek answers elsewhere.
Wie Kie-hong, feeling troubled, seeks solace in alcohol but finds no comfort. Instead, he decides to visit Cu Siau-thian, a man familiar with his father. Wie Kie-hong hopes Cu Siau-thian can shed light on his father's mysterious mission and disappearance.
Upon meeting Cu Siau-thian, Wie Kie-hong questions him about his father's last mission and whether Cu Siau-thian knows anything about it. Cu Siau-thian, surprised by the visit, initially deflects, suggesting Wie Kie-hong ask Leng Souw-hiang instead. However, Wie Kie-hong reveals that Leng Souw-hiang refuses to discuss the matter.
Cu Siau-thian expresses disbelief at rumors that Wie Ceng might still be alive, citing that if he were, he wouldn't ignore his son. He mentions two conflicting rumors: one that Wie Ceng failed his mission and feared returning, and another that he was coerced by someone.
As tensions rise, Cu Siau-thian mentions that before Wie Ceng left, he was fearful of his mission, suggesting it was dangerous. Wie Kie-hong presses for more information, but Cu Siau-thian insists Wie Ceng was sent to die, a claim Wie Kie-hong refuses to believe.
In desperation, Wie Kie-hong kneels and pleads with Cu Siau-thian, suspecting he knows more. Cu Siau-thian, angered, attempts to kick Wie Kie-hong, aiming for a fatal strike. However, Wie Kie-hong defends himself, seizing Cu Siau-thian's leg and turning the tables.
Now holding the upper hand, Wie Kie-hong demands the truth about his father, threatening Cu Siau-thian with a knife. He accuses Cu Siau-thian of using others as scapegoats in a previous incident involving Tiat Liong-san and insists on knowing his father's whereabouts. Despite the threat, Cu Siau-thian maintains he knows nothing, leaving the confrontation at a stalemate.
Glossary:
- Arak: A traditional alcoholic beverage.
- Cu Taiya: An honorific title, referring to Cu Siau-thian.
- Generasi tua: The older generation, implying respect for elders.
- Leng Taiya: An honorific title, referring to Leng Souw-hiang.
- Pakhia: A fictional city or region in the novel.
- Tiat Liong-san: A character or place involved in a past incident.
- Wie Ceng: Wie Kie-hong's father, whose fate is central to the plot.