Chapter 633: Yun Xiaozi (I)
Li Qinghong paused briefly as a figure rose into the air, wearing flowing robes and clasping their hands in salute. "This lowly one greets Your Grace."
Zong Yan, who had been living comfortably in recent years, now carried himself with a confidence that starkly contrasted with his former servile demeanor as a subordinate to the demon clans. His eyes shone brightly, and his posture was upright, although faint traces of his past struggles remained.
Li Qinghong, ever courteous, responded politely to Zong Yan and listened as he meticulously recited the island's expenses down to the last detail.
Zong Yan nervously finished his report. The accounts naturally showed deficits—after all, the small island had no productive output, and the resources of the sea were dominated by the dragon clans, leaving others no room to intervene. As Zong Yan spoke, the white-clad female cultivator before him appeared distracted, her gaze wandering over the island's scenery, further unsettling him.
Zong Yan harbored complex feelings toward the Li Family. Alongside deep gratitude, he felt the customary Eastern Sea deference—bordering on submission—toward power. For someone like Li Qinghong, a Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator capable of leveling the island in anger, Zong Yan also carried an immense fear of being discarded.
Li Yuanjiao had spent considerable time on the island, and Zong Yan knew him to be a man who detested bullying and despised blood sacrifices. That understanding brought him some comfort. But facing Li Qinghong, who remained a relative stranger, Zong Yan did not dare to gamble on her temperament.
Kongheng, the monk, soon arrived, descending from the sky with his characteristic serene demeanor. His hands pressed together in a gesture of respect, he spoke softly, "It has been many years. Fellow Daoist, you have made significant progress."
The monk, who naturally had small eyes, became even harder to read as he lowered his gaze. Li Qinghong replied casually, her attention still elsewhere, letting Zong Yan continue his report about the island's loss of several hundred catties of spirit paddies. She didn't seem to hear him, simply waving her hand and saying, "Not bad. The population seems sufficient."
Li Qinghong's initial reaction upon arriving mirrored that of her brother. Her spiritual sense swept across the island, searching for temples or statues. Finding none, she relaxed slightly.