When Wang Ba walked out of the Human Virtue Hall, he was still somewhat dazed.
"Uncle-Master Song..."
He could not help recalling his time as the Right Protector of the Earthly Treasures Hall, offering Song Dongyang counsel and coordinating supplies across all Twenty-Five Departments of the hall.
Thinking back now, it felt as though it had all happened only yesterday.
He recalled how Song Dongyang had promoted him against convention, the many times he had looked after him, and those things he had been "unable to fathom" back in the Chen Kingdom.
He fell silent for a long time.
Beside him, Li Yingfu was also silent, his eyes staring blankly into space.
Only after a long while did he suddenly speak, his voice hoarse:
"Chief Director, I would like to request a day off to go to Star Dipper Peak... and see Hall Master Song off."
Wang Ba emerged from his daze. Hearing Li Yingfu's words, he shook his head slightly and sighed.
"Let's go together. Uncle-Master Song looked after me. I ought to see him off as well."
Li Yingfu nodded gently.
But before the two reached Star Dipper Peak-
Wang Ba suddenly stopped, a trace of surprise and uncertainty rising on his face.
Despite his grief, Li Yingfu noticed Wang Ba's expression and asked in puzzlement:
"Chief Director?"
Wang Ba slowly exhaled and said gravely:
"I'm afraid I can't go just now. The Sect Master has summoned me."
Startled, Li Yingfu hurriedly said, "If the Sect Master has summoned you, it must be important. Please go ahead, Chief Director."
Wang Ba nodded. Not daring to linger, he immediately headed toward Pure Yang Palace.
Inside Pure Yang Palace.
The polished dark sunken water stone floor shone like a mirror.
Yet it held none of the chill of stone