After a lengthy conversation, the truth was that neither had managed to convince the other. Yet this did not harm their friendship.
Hou Niao resumed his Patrol lifestyle, never staying overnight at the small outpost again. Once he had fulfilled his promise, the deal had ended, and he should not have continued; it would have been irresponsible.
Yes, that's what he thought.
This wasn't about reneging after raising one's pants, but rather about a harsh reality. The three sisters-in-law had achieved their goal, and what they needed to pursue now was their happiness. And if he remained by their side, that happiness would never arrive.
