The next day was the twenty-ninth of December. Song Xian finally returned to report, and the three branches of the Duke Weiguo Residence gathered together for a meal.
Song Xian appeared quite composed. He patted Song Chongjin on the shoulder and simply said, "You've endured much, it's good to have you back!" His greeting gift, however, was quite generous, with a box full of fine ink, excellent brushes, and a stack of quality paper.
Clearly, it was prepared with great care.
Song Xian's wife, Lady Chiang, was also an amiable woman, with a round face and a friendly smile, her eyes narrowing into slits when she smiled.
She smiled upon seeing Wang Yongzhu as well, saying only that she was a good child and suggesting that she come to visit the third branch's sister for conversation and play when free.
Her greeting gift was also subtly given, as she slipped over a pouch.
Wang Yongzhu, seeing Lady Chiang's friendliness, graciously accepted it and thanked her.
