Chen Qing followed Huizhen to the reception hall.
On the left side of the hall sat a man of about fifty.
He wore dark indigo casual clothes. His face was square and upright, and a neatly trimmed short beard rested beneath his chin.
Though he wore no official robes or conspicuous ornaments, the composed bearing of one long accustomed to high position naturally showed through.
He was none other than Marquis Jingnan, Gu Chengzong.
At his side stood a woman in a goose-yellow tight-fitting outfit, her high ponytail tied up neatly. Her brows carried a heroic air, while her features were bright and lovely. She was Princess Changle, Gu Mingyue.
When she saw Chen Qing enter, her gaze rested on him for a moment. She gave a slight nod, counting it as a greeting.
Chen Qing stepped forward several paces and bowed with cupped hands. "This junior, Chen Qing, pays respects to Marquis Jingnan."
"No need for such ceremony. Sit quickly." Gu Chengzong raised a hand in a gesture of support.
Chen Qing did as told and sat in the chair opposite him, then looked toward Gu Chengzong.
Huizhen quietly withdrew outside, leaving the space to the three of them.
"True Disciple Chen's battle on the Vajra Platform today was truly astonishing. You cleared seven trials in succession, and even received a personal audience with Abbot Jingchen, who bestowed upon you the honorary title of Guardian Vajra."
Gu Chengzong spoke with undisguised praise in his voice. "Even while this Marquis was far away in Yan Kingdom, I had heard that there was an outstanding disciple of Grandmaster Luo. Only upon meeting you today did I understand that hearing of someone was not as good as meeting them, and meeting them surpassed even their reputation."
"Your Lordship overpraises me." Chen Qing