Indoors.
A low couch stood by the railing.
The scenery of flowers, birds, insects, and grass lay beyond the courtyard.
Before them stood only a small table.
Venerable Meteorflame had his hands tucked into his sleeves, frowning without a word.
He had already said what needed saying. There was no need to repeat himself.
Yet he was equally worried about Tu Shan Jun's judgment.
Beside the table.
Tu Shan Jun stared at the wine cup before him. The amber dragon-saliva brew from the earth's core gave off a faint red glow, reflecting his face and the same grave, earnest expression.
After pondering for a long while.
He finally nodded and looked toward Venerable Meteorflame. "I have to go back with Third Sister."
"If you were sure of yourself, this old man would never object."
"But is the Pei Clan of the Grand Artifact Sect really a place one can simply barge into?"
"Geniuses there are as numerous as carp crossing a river. True Lords and Venerables, the pillars of the sect, are as commonplace as ordinary clan elders."
"Not to mention that Pei Clan ancestor known as the 'Saint.'"
"That was a peerless genius who once contended with the Saint Lord of the Grand Artifact Sect. Though he now lived in seclusion, time had only made him more terrifying."
"This old man is not saying that I do not trust your strength."
"It is simply that, given the current circumstances, it would be better for Third Sister to return alone."
"Third Sister is a disciple of the Pei Clan. Even if the Pei Clan has designs on her, they cannot force her too far."
"The moment you show yourself, the nature of things changes."
"Fine."
"Let us not even speak of taking action."
"If you merely return with her without