As an Outer Sect Deacon, Qiao Tai had seen Sect Master Zhao Gongnian before—many times, in fact—but always from afar.
And every time he had seen Zhao Gongnian, it had been on some particular occasion.
Zhao Gongnian was usually surrounded by important figures.
Qiao Tai had never had the chance, much less the standing, to approach him. Meeting him alone was out of the question.
He had never dreamed that when he finally met Zhao Gongnian one-on-one, he would find him so warm and approachable. He could not help feeling touched.
A Sect Master truly did carry himself differently.
He knew how to care for his subordinates.
Still, Qiao Tai knew that Zhao Gongnian's warmth was probably due, for the most part, to his mother-in-law, the Meng Family's old madam. Zhao Gongnian was doing this out of respect for her.
He hurriedly replied, "Thank you for asking, Sect Master. The old madam has had some trouble with her health, but it's nothing serious. Her complexion has been much better lately."
"Is that so? Good. Please give Old Madam Meng my regards. Once I have some time, I'll visit her in person."
"Yes. Thank you, Sect Master. I'll be sure to tell her."
Zhao Gongnian nodded, then abruptly changed the subject. "Now, tell me about yourself. Why were you so anxious to see me tonight? Do you know this goes against the Yellow Martial Sect's rules?"
"By seeing you, I've set a precedent."
"If your reason doesn't hold up, I won't be able to shield you, even for Old Madam Meng's sake!"
Qiao Tai's heart tightened.
He understood Zhao Gongnian's meaning at once.
Those first few questions about Old Madam Meng had made it clear that Zhao Gongnian had agreed to see him as an exception for her sake. He had