"Li Zhixia!"
The old man's anger flared, and he sprang from his chair, raising the teacup in his hand as if to hurl it.
"Grandpa, I was wrong! I was just talking nonsense. Please don't be angry, Grandpa!"
She lowered her head, her lashes trembling as she exposed a slender stretch of pale neck. Seeing how remorseful and helpless she looked, no one could bring themselves to blame her any further.
Old Master stroked his grizzled beard, amusement and exasperation flickering in his eyes. He patted his granddaughter on the head, then cupped his hands toward Qin and laughed in a voice like a ringing bell.
"This little girl is ignorant and speaks without thinking. This Old Man apologizes on her behalf. Please do not take offense."
Qin smiled and shook his head. Still, the girl's name was rather interesting. It suited her well—bright and lively, carrying a natural air of worldly warmth.
Her spirited mischief even reminded him a little of how naughty Qing Ling had once been.
Qin slowly rose to his feet beneath the bluestone steps. His azure robes were crisp and clean, like layers of green mountains in the distance. His aura was so thoroughly restrained that he seemed to have merged with the surrounding grass, trees, mountains, and rocks.
He cupped his hands toward Li Qiudao in a steady, measured salute. His eyes were as clear and still as an ancient well, without the slightest hint of probing, as he spoke like an ordinary seeker of the Dao.
"Sir, I was taken in by my master when I was young and lived apart from worldly affairs. I have seen only a small corner of the world. Could you tell me in detail about the state of this world?"
With just a few words, he concealed