Elder Fu took slow, deliberate steps forward, his heavy cane tapping against the stone floor with each movement.
The entire hall watched as he stopped before Elder Fan Ming and gave him a respectful nod.
"Elder Fan Ming, it has been a while."
Elder Fan Ming returned the nod with a faint smile, his wrinkled face showing familiarity.
"Indeed, Elder Fu. I trust your health has been well?"
A deep, raspy chuckle escaped Elder Fu's throat.
"Well enough, thanks to you. I still remember the tea you brought me yesterday—it eased my old bones quite nicely. I must thank you for your assistance in handling the matter with the outer sect disciples. Without your guidance, they might have embarrassed themselves further."
Elder Fan Ming let out a low hum of agreement.
"Hmph, it was nothing. Though I must admit, seeing their pitiful attempts was quite amusing."
