"How did you get here?"
Zhou Ye was in the main hall, keeping an eye on the business. When he saw Gao Xian come in, he rose to greet him, slightly surprised.
After all, he had made a great deal of Spirit Stones thanks to Gao Xian. Though Gao Xian was a junior, Zhou Ye treated him with considerably more warmth and courtesy now.
"It's been a long time since I saw you, Uncle Zhou. I missed you, so I came by to visit."
Gao Xian handed him the four-compartment gift box he had just bought. It was filled with pastries and candied fruit.
Zhou Ye's smile widened when he saw it. "We're close. There's no need to be so formal."
"I only managed to earn a few Spirit Stones because you looked out for me, Uncle Zhou. It's only right, it's only right."
Of course Gao Xian had to be polite and respectful to his future father-in-law. Besides, he had come this time to mooch off him for food and lodging.
Zhou Ye took the gift box, his old face blooming with smiles. "Come on. Let's talk in the back courtyard."
Zhou Ye left two apprentices to mind the business and took Gao Xian to the main room in the back courtyard.
A copper brazier sat in the main room's sitting area, warming it nicely, though its fumes stung the eyes a little.
Gao Xian looked around but didn't see Zhou Yuling. There was no one else in the room, so he got straight to the point.
"Uncle Zhou, my home was broken into. They smashed the doors and windows.
"I was hoping I could stay here for a few days. Would that be convenient?"
Zhou Ye asked with concern, "Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. I even killed