Everyone walked out of the main hall. A small boat was already drifting over from the lakeside, carrying three people. One was Commander Murong, standing at the prow with his ugly face and shouting for Jiaotong. Behind him stood a soldier holding a box, and last was a servant steering the boat.
When Commander Murong saw the group emerging from the hall, he immediately raised his hand and waved, whether or not he had spotted Xu Jiaotong. Only when no one responded did he awkwardly lower his hand.
The boat reached the shore. Before it had even steadied itself, Commander Murong leaped ashore and hurried forward. When he drew close, he looked around and asked, "Which one is Uncle Xu?"
Then his eyes lit up. Spotting Xu Jiaotong hiding behind the others, he cried, "Jiaotong, look at you, being far too polite. Since Father-in-law had come to Jingyue City, why didn't you tell me earlier? I could have prepared generous gifts and come to pay him my respects. I came in such a hurry and was ill-prepared, so please don't take offense."
By then, the servant and soldier had also come over. The servant said in great panic, "Master, this humble one couldn't stop him, and I dared not offend this military lord, so I could only bring him here."
Dragon King Xu waved a hand. "No matter. You may go."
Commander Murong's eyes immediately brightened. He bowed to Dragon King Xu and said, "Uncle Xu, I am Murong Jian. I have long admired the great name of Dragon King Xu, and meeting you today is truly an honor. I came in haste and prepared only a modest gift to show my sincerity."
Dragon King Xu glanced at the box in the soldier's hands and said mildly, "I too have