"That was only proper."
Wei Jun agreed, then instructed his accompanying steward to do whatever the guests asked and make sure they were satisfied. With that, he went on his way.
Before long, Wei Jun returned, leading a Red Robe Middle-aged Man.
The middle-aged man was exceedingly portly. He looked less like a cultivator and more like a wealthy landowner.
After Wei Jun introduced them, it turned out that this portly middle-aged man was his Third Uncle, Wei Kaitai.
Once they had exchanged greetings, Wei Kaitai got straight to the point. "I've heard from Wei Jun what Brother Xu has asked. I don't mean to boast, but when it comes to precious herbs and medicines, there's no one in all of Western Qi who can compare with me. Please, Brother Xu, ask away."
"I have a Precious Medicine that has gained sentience, but it's been badly injured. I wonder if you have a way to help it recover, Mr. Wei. You needn't provide any resources; I only need the method."
"A sentient Precious Medicine? Where is it?"
Wei Kaitai's eyes lit up.
Xu Yi smiled. "I didn't bring it with me. It's being cultivated in my cave abode. Or do you need to see the medicinal plant before you can prescribe a treatment?"
"Bearded Uncle, catch!"
At some point, Qiu Wa had hopped into the lake. She stepped across the water and tossed over a green jade lotus pod, then beamed at Xu Yi. "It's so sweet."
"Don't make trouble."
Xu Yi caught the lotus pod and smiled. "She's a mischievous child who doesn't know better. Please don't take offense."
Just then, Qiu Wa began coughing violently again. Xu Yi swept out a hand, drawing her into his arms. A palm-sized jade gourd sprang open, and he tipped its contents