Song by the Window: Zhu Clan's Wen Ying

They really were in perfect sync.

Yu Ci smiled on the surface, but pondered inwardly: As a renowned and massive association throughout the world, and one specializing in such arts, the Buyun Society's information regarding ventures into the outer realms naturally carried considerable credibility. Rarer still, Evergreen Gate had used this opportunity to blend probing and goodwill into one furnace. They had put much thought into it.

Unfortunately, their efforts had missed the mark.

Of course, Yu Ci had no need to refuse now. That Thirteen Water Mansions plan was scheduled for next year, and there were too many variables. If he did not wish to go then, he could simply find any excuse to decline.

Thus, he nodded, raised his teacup in thanks to Lu Lian and the other two, and the matter was settled.

Afterward, they spoke of spices, medicinal herbs, and such matters. Yu Ci simply drew upon Ling Xi Wanderer's memories and handled the conversation with ease. Lu Lian, as the Buyun Society's chief steward, had traveled far and seen much. Though his words lacked polish, starting from the origins of medicinal herbs, he spoke sentence after sentence of landscapes from every region, strange people, and unusual happenings, opening their eyes.

They talked for more than an hour. Mr. Qingsong kept them for a meal, and it was not until the afternoon that Fang Hui returned. Yu Ci stepped into his private courtyard and let out a breath. Evergreen Gate, more or less, had been dealt with.

He had intended to cultivate in the quiet room, but a feeling stirred within him. Turning his head, he instead made his way to the bedroom.

Inside the Green Gauze Cabinet, Bao Yun sat before the window, looking out at the courtyard scenery. The underground city was damp and