Laughter warmed the mountains, and cooking smoke curled into the air.
Only after everyone had eaten their fill did Shen Hui rein in his smile and steer the conversation back to business.
"Everything is ready now. I can rebuild your bodies for you. Who would like to go first?"
At those words, the streamside fell silent.
Everyone exchanged glances, but no one answered at first.
In the end, First Senior Uncle stood up with an easy smile.
"No volunteers? Then I'll go!"
With that, he finished the fish in his hand in a few bites, wiped his mouth, and tossed away the dry twig.
Shen Hui nodded and swept his sleeve.
"Very well."
Clear water rose from the stream at his command, swirling and gathering in midair into a transparent, crystalline water mirror that hovered steadily above the ground.
Light shimmered across the mirror, clearly reflecting First Senior Uncle's appearance, every feature and contour visible in perfect detail.
"Is there anything you would like to change, Martial Uncle?"
Shen Hui asked, "Your body and appearance can be shaped however you wish. If you would prefer to look younger, just say the word."
First Senior Uncle leaned close to the water mirror, looking this way and that before turning his head to study his profile.
The man in the mirror had a full beard, thick brows, and a broad mouth. He looked rather imposing.
He rubbed his chin and said earnestly:
"My face and build are fine as they are. No need to change them. But... give me a little more beard. It'll lend me more character."
Looking at the already heavily bearded face in the mirror, Shen Hui's lips twitched. He almost said something, then stopped.
But on second thought, everyone had their own tastes. If First Senior Uncle liked