After Yang Lingqing's comforting counsel, Lin Qiao revealed a radiant smile.
Once she had gathered herself, she accepted the white Dharma robe Yang Lingqing handed her and changed into it.
After Lin Qiao took her seat, another four Yang Clan cultivators dressed in white received the Patriarch's Order and knocked before entering from outside.
"We pay our respects to the Patriarch."
"No need for such formalities. Go greet her yourselves."
The four first saluted Yang Lingqing. Only after receiving the Patriarch's permission did they crowd around Lin Qiao.
"Sister Lin Qiao, you're finally back!"
"Sister Lin Qiao, you have no idea—these past few years while you were gone, my sister never stopped talking about you."
"Sister Lin Qiao slew demons in the Southwest and earned illustrious battle merits. Huai'an admires you greatly."
Looking at these three younger siblings, Lin Qiao's eyes filled with affection. She chatted with each of them for quite some time.
Yang Yuanwen stood nearby, and a smile surfaced on his face as he watched the warm scene.
Only after the three children had finished speaking with Lin Qiao did he step forward, cup his hands in salute, and say solemnly, "Lin Qiao, welcome home."
Seeing that Yang Yuanwen wore the same white Dharma robe as herself, Lin Qiao's eyes brightened. She returned his salute gravely. "Hard work does not betray those with resolve. Congratulations, Brother Yuanwen, on your great advance along the Dao Path!"
After exchanging greetings, Yang Yuanwen and the other four took their seats in turn and respectfully listened to Yang Lingqing's instructions and warnings.
"The Twilight Ancient Path is a place of fortune for our Yang Clan. Outsiders do not know this, but as the five core members of the Yang Clan, you all know its hidden truths."
Yang Lingqing spoke slowly. "On