Within the Chu Residence, Chu Hang personally went to the main gate to welcome Yi Shuyuan. Though he had grown old, his steps were swift and vigorous.
As soon as he neared the gate in the front courtyard, Chu Hang ordered it opened.
"Quickly, open the main gate wide to welcome our guests!"
"Yes!"
The servants accompanying him dared not delay in the slightest. One look at their master's attitude told them the visitors outside were no ordinary guests. They might even be the descendants of old friends.
Outside the gate, Yi Shuyuan and his two companions had already sensed what was happening within.
As the gates of the Chu Residence slowly opened with a long creak, Chu Hang saw the people standing outside. His delight deepened, and he could not help reproaching the servant beside him.
"You only told me Mr. Yi had arrived. Why didn't you mention Elder Celestial Master Qi and Hero Mai were here too?"
Elder Celestial Master Qi?
The gate servants were startled, but before they could say anything, Chu Hang had already stepped outside to greet his visitors.
Yi Shuyuan's smiling voice carried through the gate.
"Lord Chu, it's been many years. Have you been well?"
"Mr. Yi, Elder Celestial Master Qi, and Hero Mai! It's been so long!"
Dressed in a plain scholar's robe, Chu Hang came out into the breeze at the gate. In Yi Shuyuan's eyes, his figure was still upright and tall. As his beard fluttered, Yi Shuyuan seemed to see the trees in the mountains all those years ago, and the young scholars who had explored them together.
"Chancellor Chu!" "Lord Chu!"
Qi Zhongbin and Mai Lingfei also greeted Chu Hang, one smiling from the heart, the other somewhat nervous and awkward.
"Please, come in!"
"After you!"
Yi Shuyuan