An Old Acquaintance Pays a Visit

Shen Sanniang sat by the window with a bowl of freshly brewed hot tea, her gaze resting on the slender figure across from her, a hint of scrutiny in her eyes.

Chen Qingyao sat quietly on the embroidered stool, her hands folded over her knees, her posture so proper it was almost stiff.

She wore a plain, pale-blue dress. Her hair was still arranged as it had been before, loosely coiled with a silver hairpin, revealing her smooth, broad forehead.

She was no longer the innocent little girl from Willow Alley in Anping County.

Nineteen-year-old Chen Qingyao had grown considerably taller, her figure slender but not frail. The roundness and childishness had faded from her brows and eyes, while the lines of her cheeks had gradually taken on a young woman's delicate beauty.

Her eyes were calm and clear, like black jade washed by water. Yet deep within them, the innocent colors of childhood had vanished.

Shen Sanniang withdrew her scrutinizing gaze, took a sip of tea, and asked casually, "You've been with the Chen Family for several years now. Tell me, what have you learned over all these years?"

Chen Qingyao lowered her eyes slightly, her voice soft and gentle. "Your daughter has learned the etiquette and conduct expected of a noble young lady. I know what to say to different people, and when to take my leave... And..."

Chen Qingyao paused. A look that should never have belonged in her eyes suddenly surfaced. "I've also come to understand the weight martial artists carry in this world."

Shen Sanniang nodded. She was satisfied with that answer, but as for Chen Qingyao's final remark, she felt it was not something Chen Qingyao should concern herself with.

Over these four years, Chen Qingyao had moved with her mother from Willow Alley