Hu Xiaotian hurried over to pat the old eunuch on the back. Fortunately, Li Yuncong finally caught his breath. He exhaled and shook his head. "I'm old. I'm no good anymore!"
Hu Xiaotian smiled. "In my eyes, Eunuch Li, you're stronger with age-an old thoroughbred at the manger, still dreaming of galloping a thousand miles, growing ever more steadfast..."
Li Yuncong cut him off. "To grow old without dying is to become a scourge! That's what you really wanted to say."
Hu Xiaotian smiled wryly. "I've always held you in the greatest respect, Eunuch Li. Deep in my heart, I've always regarded you as my master."
Li Yuncong shook his head. "I can hardly count as your master. I only taught you Qi-Regulation Breathing as part of an exchange of benefits. That was no kindness to you, much less grounds for calling me your master."
Hu Xiaotian said, "A kindness of a single drop should be repaid with a gushing spring. How much more do I owe you for saving my life?"
Li Yuncong said, "You did turn misfortune into a blessing. After all, you can live openly and honorably from now on."
Hu Xiaotian said, "It's all thanks to your care, Eunuch Li. Otherwise, how could I have enjoyed the glory I have today?"
Li Yuncong sighed. "I didn't help you. The one who truly helped you was King Yongyang!" There was an unexpected hint of desolation in his words.
Hu Xiaotian said, "I left in the first month, and now that I'm back, it's already the fifth. A great many things must have happened in between."
Li Yuncong said, "I know what you want to ask. Yes, it was Ji Feihua who injured my right eye. Not only that, my internal injuries still haven't healed. That day on