A Difficult Problem

At the end of the path, the view opened up. The magnificent sight of the Icefire Yin Yang Well, its red and blue waters intertwined, came into view.

Dense life energy and the scent of herbs washed over Ning Fengzhi, lifting his spirits. Even the well-traveled master of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect could not keep a flash of wonder from his eyes.

Ge Duo was still sitting in the wicker chair outside her Crystal House, seemingly forever at ease.

The hem of her deep-purple dress spread across the ground, and her pale fingers toyed with her twisted wooden staff.

She looked at the two arrivals. Her eerie green eyes rested on Ning Fengzhi for a moment, swept over the gray-robed elder behind him carrying a gift box, then settled on Chen Xin, whose aura was as sharp as a sword. Her lips curved in a faint, unreadable smile.

"I am Ning Fengzhi of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect. I've taken the liberty of coming with my friend Chen Xin to pay my respects to you, Your Excellency."

Ning Fengzhi stepped forward, humbled himself, and bowed respectfully. Chen Xin gave a slight clasp of his fists in greeting.

"People don't come calling without a reason." Ge Duo had no patience for pleasantries. Her fingertips tapped lightly on the armrest as she looked at Ning Fengzhi.

"What brings you here in person, Sect Master Ning?"

Ning Fengzhi drew a deep breath. Before someone like her, false courtesies would serve no purpose. At his signal, the Soul Sage carriage driver accompanying them gently set the gift box on the stone table.

"I've heard your skill in refining medicines is extraordinary, and that you can resolve many difficulties involving Martial Souls." Ning Fengzhi came straight to the point, his tone solemn.