Seeing Lin Qingzhu, Ning Ruoxuan, and the others, Ning Wangshu felt a surge of emotion.
He held Ning Ruoxuan, who had thrown herself into his arms, and hurriedly said to Lin Qingzhu and Zhu Xiyan, "Qingzhu, Xiao Yan, I'm fine. I'm sorry for making you worry all this time!"
Lin Qingzhu wiped her tears, took a deep breath, and managed a smile. "Wangshu, as long as you're all right!"
"Mm-hmm, Brother Ning. Seeing you safe and sound puts our minds at ease, too."
Zhu Xiyan nodded enthusiastically.
Just then, Wuxiang Zhenren came over as well. He let out a long breath, his expression visibly relaxing, and said, "Wuxiang pays his respects to Master!"
Ning Wangshu gave him a slight nod. "Wuxiang, you've worked hard looking after Qingzhu, Ruoxuan, and the others all this time."
Wuxiang Zhenren was a little overwhelmed by the praise and hurriedly said, "Master, what are you saying? It was only right for Wuxiang to do so."
Ning Wangshu smiled and didn't say anything more.
Laifu had already come up to him, barking excitedly and affectionately rubbing his head against Ning Wangshu's leg. Little Dot had flown over as well, chirping excitedly without pause.
"Laifu, we have you to thank for protecting Qingzhu, Ruoxuan, and the others this time. Well done!"
Ning Wangshu let go of Ning Ruoxuan, crouched with a smile, and patted Laifu's head.
Although he didn't yet know the details of Laifu's battle with Cao Xu, he'd learned from He Shiren's memories that Laifu had been a great help that day.
"Woof, woof..."
Hearing Ning Wangshu's praise, Laifu barked happily twice, looking just a little proud.
Seeing this, Ning Wangshu smiled. Then he stood and looked at Lin Qingzhu before stepping forward, opening his arms, and pulling her into an embrace. He whispered in