Hearing someone speak at the end of the table, Bai Shijun looked up and saw that it was Daoist Qingyun, a retainer in his household.
Daoist Qingyun had originally been a wandering priest who traveled far and wide. He had sought refuge in the Bai household barely half a month ago. Though his cultivation was hardly profound, Bai Shijun had seen how sincerely he wished to enter his service, and since he knew a few illusion tricks, had reluctantly taken him in. After joining the household, Qingyun had done little of note, and his manner was often rather furtive. Bai Shijun's trusted advisers had consequently classified him among those who crowed like roosters and stole like dogs-men with petty, dubious talents. Many of the household's other extraordinary men had stayed away from tonight's moon-viewing banquet, but this unexceptional Daoist had eagerly hurried over to attend.
Still, it was fortunate that he was here to rescue the situation. Hearing Daoist Qingyun volunteer, the embarrassed Peerless Young Master immediately brightened and said gladly:
"Excellent! On such a lovely night, nothing but drinking, singing, and dancing would be rather dull. Sorry for the trouble, Daoist Qingyun."
At this, Qingyun was about to rise, but Bai Shijun pressed both hands downward and smiled.
"Do not hurry, Daoist. There is something I must first say to these two honored guests."
Bai Shijun then rose from his seat, approached Xueyi, and bowed deeply to her and Xing Yan, saying apologetically:
"Miss Xueyi, Brother Xing Yan, I am sorry. I drank a little too much just now, and my words may have given offense. Please forgive me!"
Faced with such a sincere apology, the Four Seas Hall Master, who had still been somewhat displeased, instead felt a little embarrassed. He hastily rose to return the courtesy, repeatedly