"My name is Wang Yue. It is an honor to meet you all," Wang Yue said, cupping his hands in a formal greeting. His proactive introduction immediately dissolved Yang Lin's lingering awkwardness.
Upon hearing Yang Lin's explanation, the tension in the air evaporated. The wariness in the eyes of the elders transformed into warmth and even a flicker of profound gratitude.
The man in the lead returned the gesture. "Well met, young hero Wang. I am Yang Guang, the Patriarch of Yang Village. I cannot thank you enough for saving my son's life."
"You are too kind, Patriarch," Wang Yue replied politely. "It was a simple matter."
"It may have been simple for a man of your talents, but for my son, it was a debt of life itself," Yang Guang insisted. He bowed slightly once more before gesturing toward the village.
"Please, let us speak inside."
The father and son led Wang Yue into a small courtyard.
