A few minutes later, in a side hall of the estate's Central Courtyard.
Only Chen Zhang, the Ye Family's mother and daughter, and Chen Xiaojun were present. Gu Yuanchao and Zhang Yin Tie had gone off to attend to their duties.
Chen Zhang sat in the seat of honor and lifted his teacup. With a gentle smile, he looked at Ye Sirong seated below him. "Sirong, these years away must have been far from easy. When you came in just now, I saw you chatting with Yin Tie?"
Ye Sirong bowed slightly. "Yes, Fifth Master," she replied, adopting everyone else's form of address. "We only learned of Yin Tie's condition at the entrance just now. He-he's still as openhearted as ever. But what happened to Brother He Song-"
Chen Zhang set down his teacup and sighed softly. "He Song-he exhausted his strength protecting the younger disciples, then died detonating himself. He was a fine man."
He paused. "Word of your return has already been sent to the village. Your parents should receive the good news soon."
Ye Sirong felt a sting in her nose. "Thank you for keeping us in mind, Fifth Master, and for your kindness. To be able to return and see my parents again-I couldn't be more grateful."
As they spoke, footsteps and cheerful conversation sounded outside the hall.
Xia Yun and Zhu Shiyuan walked in, with Xia Shuyao skipping along behind Xia Yun, her large, lively eyes surveying the hall.
Ye Sirong hurried to her feet, genuine delight spreading across her face. She took two quick steps forward and offered a deep bow, proper yet affectionate. "Uncle Xia Yun! Brother Shi Yuan! It's been so many years. Have you both been well?"
Xia Yun stroked his beard, his smile warm. "Haha, yes, we've both been well!