Zhang Chen was stunned when he saw the newcomer, disbelief filling his eyes. Before he could speak, the person opposite him said reproachfully, "Since you wanted to leave the capital, why didn't you tell me?"
"Sir enjoys inexhaustible wealth and glory in the capital. Why would you think of following me to some poor backwater and living a life where tomorrow is never guaranteed?" Zhang Chen looked at Zhou Qiucheng, his eyes full of disbelief.
"Great First Mister has perished, the passage to the new world within the academy has collapsed, and the countless strange creatures in the underground palace vanished overnight. The entire capital no longer holds any attraction for me. I might as well leave while I can. Besides, the world will undergo great changes in the future, and Great Victory is the center of those changes. This is a place where wind and clouds converge, but it holds no appeal for me." Zhou Qiucheng looked at Zhang Chen. "Could it be that you do not welcome me?"
"Sir's willingness to return north with me is this disciple's honor. I welcome you with utmost sincerity; how could I possibly not?" Zhang Chen said with a smile. "It is only that the foundation in the north has just been established. If you come with me, there will be none of the capital's wealth and glory. I will have to trouble you to endure bitter days with me for a while."
"I already endured sixty years of bitter days in the north. I have long grown accustomed to every blade of grass and tree there." Zhou Qiucheng did not take it to heart.
Zhang Chen smiled at this and welcomed Zhou Qiucheng into his party. Then the group departed the capital and hurried north.
When Zhang Chen had entered the