The sun sank westward.
Dusky sunlight streamed through the window lattice, casting long slanting shadows. The attendants laid out white cloth and respectfully poured amber wine, its dark surface shimmering with glittering light.
Before a drop was drunk,
the air was already steeped in intoxication.
"Grandmaster Niu, you braved wind and snow to come here. Last night was truly hectic; I did not know you had arrived and failed to greet you properly or arrange a welcoming feast to wash away the dust of travel. I am deeply ashamed. Three days makes an invitation, two days makes a summons. Hearing that Grandmaster Niu had been staying alone for two days, Liang could only specially host this banquet today to apologize."
"Seeing you truly surpasses hearing of you! Grandmaster Liang earned his fame young, yet remains humble, gentle, and prudent, never looking down on others because of his talent or standing. You possess even greater bearing than the rumors claim! Truly worthy of being one of Da Shun's outstanding men!"
Heaven-class private room, Lang Yun Tower.
Liang Qu warmly entertained the Grandmaster surnamed Niu, who had delivered the Profound Yellow Long Qi from Southern Zhili. Su Guishan sat at the seat of honor, serving as a companion at the feast.
After just a few exchanges of pleasantries,
Grandmaster Niu was "overwhelmed by the favor."
It was not that Liang Qu's words were especially elegant or humble. He had assumed it would be the usual empty politeness—a meal, a few Silver Notes, and the matter settled. Yet Liang Qu's joy practically overflowed from his face, and his feelings were so sincere they did not seem feigned.
With the year's end approaching, he was a stranger in a foreign land.
In such bitter weather, three sentences had warmed him straight to the heart.