Qin Yue rose as well. His gaze lingered on Ning Chen for a moment before he nodded slightly and gestured with a hand. "Sit."
Ning Chen took a seat with composure, and a servant brought tea.
Qin Yue sat down as well and lifted his teacup. Rather than drinking immediately, he began speaking at an unhurried pace through the rising steam.
"Starlight Earl, you are about Lingling's age, so I shall take the liberty of calling you Benqi."
"You're my elder, Uncle. It's only fitting that you address me that way," Ning Chen replied calmly.
"Benqi, despite your youth, you founded the Martial Soul Research Institute and took in children with nowhere else to go. I have long heard of your kindness."
Qin Yue continued speaking.
"You flatter me, sir. I merely do what lies within my power." Ning Chen smiled faintly, responding with propriety.
Qin Yue nodded, but abruptly changed the subject. "Lingling has mentioned you often these past two years."
"Over these past two years, I've had Lingling to thank for helping care for the children at the institute.
I am deeply grateful to her as well."
Ning Chen continued.
"Is gratitude all you feel?"
Qin Yue looked at Ning Chen, his gaze laden with meaning.
"Well..."
Ning Chen pressed his lips together, then finally smiled. "I do indeed have feelings for Lingling."
"At least that's honest."
Qin Yue gave a soft huff. "And so you should. Lingling is so beautiful and so accomplished. Who wouldn't like her?"
Ning Chen couldn't help smiling at that. When this former frontier commander spoke of his daughter, he made no attempt to hide his pride.
He followed the thread of the conversation. "You're right, Uncle Qin. Miss Lingling is indeed as wise within as she is beautiful without. Having her help