Reuniting with Bi Qiong

After leaving the Guest Elder Office, Xu Yuan headed to the eastern district of the outer city to visit Yun Qingzi.

The eastern district remained as it had always been. When Xu Yuan arrived at Yun Qingzi's residence, the guard, who had been dozing off, jolted to his feet. His face broke into an exceedingly enthusiastic smile. "Xu—Guest Elder Xu, no, no, Lord Xu, you've returned! The district master gave orders long ago: if you came, you were to go straight to the quiet room in the rear courtyard. Please, this way, please."

Xu Yuan smiled and nodded, passing through the shop into the rear courtyard.

The courtyard's flowers and trees stood in scattered profusion, its tranquil air unchanged. The door to the quiet room was ajar, and Yun Qingzi's gentle voice came from within. "Little Friend Xu, I trust you have been well. Come in."

Pushing open the door, Xu Yuan saw Yun Qingzi still dressed in a simple azure robe, seated behind a tea table and smiling at him. His gaze was clear, carrying the same appreciation as ever.

"Junior Xu Yuan greets Senior Yun. I have come especially to thank you for your past recommendation and for the care you have shown me all this time."

Xu Yuan bowed and solemnly saluted him. No matter what status he held now, he had always remained grateful to this senior who had offered him sincere help when he had first arrived.

Yun Qingzi made a slight gesture to raise him and smiled. "Sit. What you have achieved today is due to your own strength. This old Daoist merely gave the boat a push with the current. Seeing the bearing you possess now greatly comforts my heart."

"I have also heard something of the matters concerning the Clear Sand River.