"Do we have to get close to this ogre at all? Can we not leave it in peace, as we would with an animal in its territory?" She gestured to the road. "If we cross paths, then so be it." A slight, thoughtful dip of her head followed Li's words. "We should be more careful now. After all, the lady traveler had found with us. If those after Madame Shu are as persistent as it seems, those pursueing us might come from both directions."