Although Heldan stood on the opposite side, he was nonetheless a forthright, decisive man. Hu Xiaotian said, "Then why not stay until after lunch, brother? Let me prepare a little wine to see you off."
Heldan smiled. "No need. I have to leave now. My men are all waiting for me."
Hearing that, Hu Xiaotian could hardly insist. He called Zhao Wusheng along to escort Heldan out of the city, accompanying him all the way to the farewell pavilion ten li beyond the West Gate. Heldan cupped his fists. "Big Brother, I deeply appreciate your kindness. Even if you escort a friend a thousand miles, you must part in the end. Let us say farewell here. We will have another chance to meet someday."
Hu Xiaotian had his men bring over the wine, and he and Heldan drained three bowls together.
Zhao Wusheng searched the crowd until he finally found Mengya. She was looking at him too, her eyes full of reluctance to part. Though they were drawn to one another, neither had spoken openly of their feelings. Zhao Wusheng gave Mengya a faint smile, and the normally outgoing Mengya lowered her head with uncharacteristic reserve.
Zhao Wusheng finally summoned the courage to walk over to Mengya. Though she had been hoping he would approach, when he actually did, she grew shy instead. She lowered her lovely head and stared at the tips of her shoes, something rarely seen in her.
With both hands, Zhao Wusheng presented Mengya with a scimitar he had previously commissioned from a renowned craftsman in Fragrant City. "Your Highness, I have felt deeply guilty ever since I carelessly damaged your treasured blade. While wandering through Fragrant City, I happened upon this scimitar, so I bought it as a gift for you. Though it cannot compare