As Zhou Lingyi looked into Yuan Buyu's resolute eyes, her heart eased.
She took out something from her sleeve, placed it gently on the table, and pushed it towards Yuan Buyu.
The object was a gavel, square in shape, with its surface coated with a shiny layer of lacquer. The wood was huanghuali, adorned with wheat patterns on all sides.
"This gavel is said to have been passed down from generation to generation from Elder Yuan's lineage. Lingyi went to great lengths to exchange for it, and now it's returned to its rightful owner," Zhou Lingyi explained.
"Master Zhou has put in much effort. However, my second disciple has already used this gavel and I don't wish to use it anymore. Insisting on keeping it by my side would only be distressing."
After pushing the gavel back to Zhou Lingyi, Yuan Buyu said, "Tomorrow is the ceremony for joining the Tangkou..."
"Don't you want to pick an auspicious day?" Zhou Lingyi asked.
