Zhou Ping's body trembled slightly as he looked into Zuo Qing's eyes.
Zuo Qing cleared his throat and slowly said in Ye Fan's voice, "Zhou Ping, you don't need to feel guilty, nor do you need to feel sorry for me. Exchanging lives was a decision I made on my own. You don't need to bear any responsibility for it.
"After I die, Zuo Qing will conceal the news of the life exchange and announce that I passed away in meditation. No one will know that you're still alive. No one will pay attention to you, and no one will force you to fulfill any so-called duty.
"You already died once for me, for Great Xia. Now I'm giving your life back to you. You can choose to be yourself and live the life you want.
"In this life, you are no longer the Sword Saint of Great Xia. You don't need to live for anyone.
"You can stay at that country restaurant and peacefully work as a waiter, or find a kind and gentle woman, get married, and start a family. You can do anything you want...
"If one day Great Xia truly faces a catastrophic crisis, perhaps you can lend a hand and help it once, within the limits of your ability... if you're willing."
As Zuo Qing's words fell, Zhou Ping lowered his head and sank into silence.
Zuo Qing said nothing more. He merely lowered his head and ate in silence. Once he had cleaned every last bit of food and rice from his bowl, he left several bills on the table and slowly stood up.
"I've delivered all of Ye Fan's words. I won't come disturb you again. Goodbye."
With that, Zuo Qing turned, pushed open the restaurant door, and disappeared into the alley.
Zhou