The Ying residence turned out to be much larger than Jiang Tao had expected. Nestled near the center of Black Vale Village, it was a sprawling estate with high walls and well-maintained gardens.

Jiang Tao had thought Ziyi was being called Lady Ying out of formality, he didn't think she was actual minor nobility. The estate's grandeur took him by surprise, with its intricate stone carvings and lush gardens filled with vibrant flowers and well-trimmed hedges.

“Welcome to Ying Manor,” Ying Ziyi said with a modest smile, though the pride in her voice was unmistakable.

The entrance was guarded by a pair of stern-looking guards, who stepped aside respectfully as Ying Ziyi approached.

“Lady Ying, welcome back,” one of the guards said, bowing slightly. His eyes flicked to Jiang Tao curiosity evident in his gaze. They rushed over to relieve them of their load.

Jiang Tao nodded in acknowledgment to the guards, allowing them to take his heavier items.

“This is Jiang Tao, my guest,” Ying Ziyi explained, her tone firm yet kind. “He has traveled a long way and seeks an audience with Lord Bai. Please extend every courtesy to him during his stay.”

The guards nodded, their expressions becoming more respectful as they sized up Jiang Tao. “Of course, Lady Ying. We shall ensure Master Jiang is treated with the utmost respect.”

He followed Ying Ziyi through the ornate gate and into the spacious courtyard of the Ying manor. The grounds were meticulously maintained, with cobblestone paths winding through lush gardens filled with an array of vibrant flowers and well-trimmed hedges. Stone lanterns lined the paths, casting a warm glow as the night approached approached.

Ziyi led him through a much smaller gate he assumed led to the main residential courtyard. Through the smaller gate, Jiang Tao found himself in a more intimate courtyard. The central garden was beautifully arranged, with a small pond surrounded by ornamental trees and blooming flowers.

A middle-aged woman he assumed was a servant emerged from a nearby building, her eyes widening slightly at the sight of Ying Ziyi and Jiang Tao. She hurried over, a look of relief and concern etched on her face.

“Mistress Ziyi! The young lord had another episode. Your mother and Physician Sun are with him now, but it's worse than before.” She hurriedly said, wringing her hands nervously.

Ying Ziyi’s expression shifted to one of immediate concern. “Thank you, Auntie Mei,” she said, turning to Jiang Tao. “Please excuse me, Master Jiang. I must attend to my brother.”

Jiang Tao nodded, understanding the urgency. “Of course, Lady Ying. Please, don’t worry about me.”

He watched as she hurried off into the main residence building, leaving him standing alone in the courtyard.

“Auntie Mei,” he called softly, drawing the attention of the middle-aged servant. “Is there a place where I might wait?”

“Oh!” she turned his way suddenly startled. “A guest!”

He couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction. She quickly composed herself and nodded. "Of course, my lord. Please follow me."

She guided him toward one of the side buildings, which he assumed was the guest quarters

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Auntie Mei gestured for Jiang Tao to sit at a finely carved wooden table. “Please, make yourself at home, my lord. I will see to some refreshments for you while you wait.”

Jiang Tao took a seat and looked around, appreciating the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the room. How long had it been since he'd had such simple comforts? After spending more than half a year in the forest this was sorely needed.

After a short wait later, Auntie Mei returned empty-handed.

“Apologies my lord, Lord Chao the head of the house, has heard the mistress has brought a guest over. He would like you to join him in his study," she said, bowing slightly.

Jiang Tao nodded, a bit taken aback by the sudden invitation but willing to meet Ying Ziyi’s father. “Thank you, Auntie Mei. Please lead the way.”

As Jiang Tao followed the servant through the winding corridors of the Ying manor, he couldn't help but marvel at the elegance of the estate. The walls were adorned with exquisite tapestries depicting various landscapes, and the air was filled with the faint scent of incense.

It wasn't as grand as the halls of verdant lotus peak but it was still very opulent, but his sense of scale was weird considering he'd gone from one extreme to another.

They soon arrived at a large wooden door, intricately carved with scenes of mountains and rivers. Auntie Mei knocked softly.

“The young lady's guest is here to see you, my lord,” she announced.

The door opened to reveal a spacious study filled with shelves and scrolls. Sweet-smelling incense wafted through the air, mingling with the rich scent of polished wood.

A distinguished man in his early fifties, with a scholarly air about him, was reclined on an expansive cushioned wooden platform.

The man’s attire was both elegant and understated, reflecting his status without being ostentatious. His silver hair, neatly tied back, complemented his well-trimmed beard, and his keen eyes studied him as he entered.

Auntie Mei took that moment to leave and close the door behind her. He was left standing awkwardly as the man assessed him with piercing eyes.

“What business does a cultivator have with the Ying family?” the man asked curtly.

Ah, so that's how it's going to be huh? He thought wryly at lord Chao’s attitude.

Jiang Tao met Lord Chao's gaze steadily, not allowing the curt tone to ruffle him. He offered a small nod, the bearest form of respect before speaking. “Greetings, Lord Ying Chao. You may address me as Jiang Tao,” He said cooly.

Lord Ying Chao’s eyes narrowed slightly, and he motioned for Jiang Tao to approach and take a seat on a nearby cushion. Jiang Tao, you say? Very well, take a seat. Why do you grace our humble abode?”

Jiang Tao took his seat on the cushion, settling comfortably despite the slightly tense atmosphere.

“Lady Ying was very generous and offered me lodging while I try to make sense of the direction of my journey,”

The man's eyes narrowed even further at the mention of his daughter’s name, a hint of concern crossing his features. He leaned forward slightly, regarding Jiang Tao with a sharper gaze.

“Is that so?” Lord Ying Chao said, his tone carefully controlled. “You must know the Lady Ziyi is already spoken for.”

Jiang Tao raised an eyebrow but maintained his calm demeanor. So that's what this is about… He thought in amusement.

“I was unaware of any such arrangements,” Jiang Tao said smoothly. “My purpose here is purely to seek some rest and perhaps gain insight into the path ahead.”

It appeared his words did little to ease the man's suspicions as Lord Chao remained wary though he relaxed slightly. “Another cultivator made his way to our village recently… In the same robes you wear. Lady Ziyi is unaware of his status as one of your ilk but he eloped with the youngest daughter of the Wu family. How is this father supposed to know those are not your intentions?” he asked.

Jiang Tao’s gaze sharpened. “Another cultivator? Do you know his name?” he asked completely brushing over the man's concerns.

If one of his fellow disciples passed through depending on when, he’d have to change plans and go looking for them.

Lord Chao’s face darkened but he replied, "Find out yourself, He’s been staying at the Wu family manor, enjoying comforts not meant for him while the Wu family deals with the consequences of Lady Lingxi’s broken engagement,”

Which of his fellow male disciples was this? Whoever it was he was ballsy and that didn't narrow it down at all. He couldn't imagine walking into a place and immediately getting married. He had to meet this mystery guy as soon as possible. Now it was time to ease Ziyis fathers concerns.

“I see,” he said calmly. “If you have any concerns about my intentions, I can assure you that I have no designs on Lady Ziyi or your family. My only aim is to find guidance and rest while I continue my journey.” He had no plans of getting married especially while he was as young as he was.

Lord Ying Chao's gaze remained sharp, but he seemed to weigh Jiang Tao's words carefully. After a long pause, he leaned back on his cushioned seat and let out a slow breath.

“Very well, Jiang Tao.” Lord Chao said, his tone softening slightly “If you are indeed only here to rest and not to cause trouble, I have no reason to keep you from your stay. But I ask that you remain respectful and not involve yourself in matters beyond your immediate concern.”

“But know this—if I find any reason to doubt your sincerity, you will be asked to leave.”

He nodded in understanding. “Of course Lord Ying Chao. I appreciate your hospitality”

Lord Ying Chao's gaze softened as he assessed Jiang Tao, seeming to weigh the sincerity of his words.

“I trust you will find the accommodations to your liking.” Lord Chao said.