Chapter 645: Leeway (I)
Li Xizhi descended the mountain but did not immediately seek out Yuan Fuyao. Instead, he took a slight detour and headed toward the tall pavilion, landing just outside the central grand hall.
The grand hall rose eighteen steps above the platform, flanked on either side by stone statues of long-horned beasts. The roof was covered in bright yellow glazed tiles, with rainwater trickling down and dripping from the mouths of the statues, creating an atmosphere of solemnity.
Li Chengliao had just finished tidying up and was descending the stairs. His face, though similar to his father Li Xicheng's in its composure, carried sharper features and a more assertive demeanor. Seeing Li Xizhi descend on a stream of light, his feathered robes glimmering with flowing rainbow light, he immediately cupped his fist and greeted him, "Chengliao greets Third Uncle!"
Li Xizhi placed one hand behind his back and used the other to lift him up, smiling as he said, "No need for formality. This time I am here to see our family's heir."
Li Chengliao's face lit up with pride. He nodded and led the way to a side pavilion. They walked down from the jade terrace, passed through several corridors, and pushed open the courtyard gate.
Inside was a small desk. Sitting by it was a boy who looked about four years old, dressed in a short robe of white and gold. The desk was piled with two stacks of scrolls. One hand propped under his chin, the boy quietly read.
His nose was slightly high, and while his brow carried traces of childishness, his face showed the healthy, rosy fullness of youth. He sat cross-legged, calm and steady.
Li Xizhi walked closer. The courtyard was devoid of attendants, except for a white-haired old monkey sweeping the ground. The monkey, dressed in Daoist robes, was at the peak of the Qi Cultivation Realm. It kept its head lowered and seemed indifferent to the newcomers.
"Wei'er… this is your Third Granduncle," Li Chengliao said softly.