Much more time passed, and the night had grown late, but Ye Feng and the other two were still chatting away in the rear courtyard.
Mōsō seemed to feel that it was about time, so he said to Ye Feng and the Daimyō:
"I've had so much to attend to lately. I didn't expect to start feeling tired at this hour."
Only then did the Daimyō realize it as well. He looked up at the night sky and saw how late it had become, then stood and said:
"We were having such a good conversation that I lost track of time. I've kept you both from your rest!"
Ye Feng replied just as politely:
"Not at all, Lord Daimyō. It's rare to meet someone I can talk with so freely. Opportunities like this don't come often."
Then Ye Feng changed tack:
"But it really is getting late. I think we should continue another time."
Mōsō readily played along:
"Ye Feng is right. Let's talk again another time."
Although the Daimyō was a little reluctant, he knew when to stop:
"In that case, we'll continue next time. Someone, prepare a carriage and take our two guests back to rest."
The servant waiting nearby quickly acknowledged the order and went off to make preparations.
By the time Ye Feng returned to the inn, it was already the dead of night.
Ye Feng opened his door, only to see the two women pacing with worried expressions.
The two women seemed to hear the door opening and hurriedly looked toward it, only to find Ye Feng standing there unharmed.
At the sight, their worry vanished, and they happily rushed over to hug him.
Qiuyu Yuna said hurriedly:
"You're finally back, Lord Ye Feng! We thought something had happened to you."
"Don't say that! Lord