Flowing Wave Mountain.
Great Bamboo Peak's camp.
"Xiao Fan!"
"Seventh!"
"Oh, thank goodness, you're finally back!"
Everyone rushed over, surrounding the two of them in an instant.
Song Daren grabbed Zhang Xiaofan in a hug, squeezing him so hard it was like he was trying to crush a bear.
"You little brat! You scared your senior brother half to death!"
Zhang Xiaofan's eyes rolled back from the squeeze, but his face was covered in a foolish grin.
Tears mingled with the rain as they streamed down, salty but warm.
Tian Ling'er squeezed her way in too, the red sash at her waist fluttering as tears welled in her big eyes.
"Xiao Fan!"
"I'm so glad you're okay!"
She didn't hug him like Song Daren had, but her concern was plain to see.
Ye Xuan stood off to the side, watching the chaotic yet heartwarming scene, the corners of his mouth lifting without him realizing it.
This was Great Bamboo Peak.
The place in Qingyun Sect that least resembled a cultivation sect, yet most felt like home.
Just then.
A heavy pressure emanated from the largest tent.
The crowd fell silent at once.
It was the dignity of a peak master.
With his hands behind his back, Tian Buyi strolled out at an unhurried pace.
Su Ru followed beside him, her expression gentle.
Tian Buyi's round face was stern as he did his best to look imposing.
But Ye Xuan clearly saw the relief in those beady eyes as they swept over Zhang Xiaofan.
That chubby old man.
He was worried sick, yet still insisted on putting on airs.
Prideful personalities must be contagious.
"Master, Mistress."
Ye Xuan stepped forward and bowed.
Zhang Xiaofan hurriedly pushed Song Daren away and dropped to his knees with a thud.
"Master, your disciple has