Jiang Yang naturally recognized the man as well. He was Yan Heng, the Vermilion Flame Palace disciple he had sparred with at the Dragonkind banquet.
His manner was eager, and the way he addressed Jiang Yang made Jiang Yang rather uncomfortable. Still, since they were acquainted, Jiang Yang stepped forward and returned his greeting.
"There's no need to call me young master. Greetings, fellow Daoist. What do you intend to do? Tell us how you'd like to proceed."
Seeing that the two clearly knew each other, Chu Qingjian stood quietly beside Jiang Yang without speaking, watching as he answered.
Yan Heng's smile did not fade as he said in a clear voice:
"I wouldn't dare presume upon your acquaintance. Young master, simply call me by my name."
Then, with an easy expression, he waved his hand decisively.
"As for how to proceed, since you are Her Highness's close friend, you are naturally a friend of mine as well. I'll yield this spirit thunder to you... and to this fellow Daoist who cultivates thunder."
It sounded gracious, as though he were doing it out of regard for Yun Zhen. But with both Jiang Yang and Chu Qingjian here, he would have to weigh his chances carefully before trying to contest it alone.
Of course, Jiang Yang could not be bothered to expose such polite pleasantries. One less complication was always better than one more. His willingness to leave spared them a fight that would gain them nothing, waste their time, and consume true essence and magic power.
"In that case... thank you, Brother Yan Heng."
Jiang Yang replied with a slight cupping of his hands.
"Please don't, please don't. I cannot accept such a courtesy."
Yan Heng hurriedly turned aside to avoid the gesture and said with utmost politeness:
"One more