Chen Qing returned to the courtyard. It was already deep into the night.
Just as he was about to bathe and rest, Bai Zhi softly reported, "Senior Brother, regarding the forging of a weapon, two days ago I used my family's connections to contact Deputy Hall Master Lang Shanghai of the Weapon Forging Hall. He has replied that, if he has time tomorrow morning, he will come pay you a visit."
A flicker of interest passed through Chen Qing's eyes.
The Weapon Forging Hall was one of Yan Kingdom's foremost forging powers, with masters gathered within. For a deputy hall master to personally come calling showed just how useful his current title as the third-ranked True Disciple was.
He nodded. "In that case, let us meet this Master Lang tomorrow."
"Yes, Senior Brother."
Bai Zhi acknowledged the order, then went to prepare hot water for Chen Qing's bath and arrange his rest.
The following morning, the sunlight was mild. More than half the snow in the courtyard had melted, exposing damp bluestone slabs.
An elderly man in a brown short jacket, his hair grizzled but his spirit vigorous, entered the True Martial Peak Small Courtyard under Bai Zhi's guidance.
His footsteps were steady, and his knuckles were thick and covered in calluses. At a glance, one could tell he was a man who had spent his life dealing with furnaces and iron hammers.
"Senior Brother, this is Lang Shanghai, Deputy Hall Master Lang of the Weapon Forging Hall," Bai Zhi introduced.
Chen Qing had long been waiting in the main hall. He rose at once and courteously cupped his hands. "Master Lang, thank you for gracing us with your presence."
Lang Shanghai did not dare be negligent. He hurriedly returned a deep salute, his attitude exceedingly respectful. "True Disciple Chen,