"The little monk still has rites to perform at the temple, please excuse my absence, you two patrons."
"Thank you, Master Huai Kong, for your efforts to enlighten the people of Han Tai Prefecture."
"Just doing my humble part."
"Ah, go on, go on. Whenever you wish to return, send word by letter and fill in the necessary details. I will arrange for someone from Crimson Mountain to fetch you."
Huai Kong clasped his hands together, bowed deeply, and walked slowly on the flagstone path towards Han Platform East.
Watching him depart, Ling Xuan and Liang Qu left the courtyard, mounted their steeds, adjusted the reins, and set off galloping towards the undulating plains, horses galloping out the city gate.
The wind brushed against their faces.
The low houses and huts disappeared from sight, and the vista suddenly widened.
