Not long after Wei Qingcheng left, a figure appeared soundlessly in the hall.
The newcomer was a middle-aged woman in a court gown, her hair piled high and adorned with a plain silver dangling hairpin. Her face was lean, with slightly prominent cheekbones and a pointed chin, yet she had a pair of exceptionally gentle almond-shaped eyes that softened the severity of her features.
Standing in the hall, she saw Gongyang Ling still seated at the head, one hand propping up her temple, her gaze fixed on the two intelligence reports on the desk. She had remained lost in thought for so long that she had not even noticed her approaching. The woman called softly, "Ling'er."
Gongyang Ling abruptly raised her head at the sound, only then realizing that someone had entered the hall without her noticing at all.
Her heart jolted, but once she recognized the visitor's face, the surprise on her own immediately gave way to reverence.
She hurried to her feet, descended the steps, and bowed. "Gongyang Ling pays her respects to Master."
Although Gongyang Ling had reached outer scenery great accomplishment and held the honored position of Azure Fish Peak's master, she had cultivated under the master of Elephant-Washing Peak in her early years. There was nothing improper about calling her Master.
Liang Fangning gently helped her rise, her tone even. "You are now the master of a peak yourself. There is no need for such a deep bow."
Yet Gongyang Ling insisted, "A teacher for a day is a parent for life. Had Master not recommended me back then, I could never have secured my position as peak master."
Liang Fangning said nothing at this, but the corners of her lips lifted slightly. Who would not like a disciple who repaid kindness and cherished bonds