In a room behind the courtyard, Hou Niao met two elderly men who were in conversation.
One was facing him, the other had his back to him.
The elder facing him had a clear, distinguished appearance. He did not possess the detached air of a contemporary master who regarded people as insignificant, but instead, he looked towards him immediately, smiling. It seemed that he was Tan Xiao's master, Master Yuan.
Although he had not spoken, Hou Niao could understand the message he conveyed; it was an encouragement to speak freely.
"Junior Hou Niao of the Shan Sect, I was invited by Brother Tan to visit the Chu Sect years ago. It took me until today, please forgive my tardiness, senior."
The elder was startled, as if he recalled something, then shook his head, sighing: