After a few minutes had passed, the two rose from the low bench, setting their cups aside. Fang Yuan inclined his head in farewell while Fang Lian bowed deeply.
"Take care of yourself, Doctor Mu," Fang Yuan said simply.
"Hmph. Just don't ruin my apprentice, Fang boy," the old man replied with a crooked grin, waving them off.
The hut door creaked shut behind them, and the air met their faces, cool, carrying the faint scent of pine.
They walked in silence for a time, the only sounds their footsteps on the narrow path.
At last, Fang Lian glanced up, worry soft in her eyes.
"Master… Doctor Mu doesn't look well. Is it really for the best that we leave him alone?"
Fang Yuan's gaze stayed forward, unreadable.
"…It isn't. But I don't know why—he's drunk."
"Drunk?" Lian tilted her head, puzzled. "Then…?"
He exhaled slowly, as though bracing himself.
"I have news for you."
Her brows knit, sensing the weight in his tone. "News?"
