When some of the villagers saw Cheng Zongyang return, they were overjoyed and ran to spread the word.
It had been a long time since they'd last seen Cheng Zongyang, so those who heard the news all hurried over.
When Cheng Guanghai and the other elders heard Cheng Zongyang was back, they too came over, delighted by the news.
Just then, surrounded by a crowd of villagers, Cheng Zongyang crossed the stone bridge and entered the inner river district.
The inner river district had since been transformed, its environment now resembling the landscape gardens of a grand estate.
"Father, Second Uncle, Eldest Uncle, Youngest Uncle. Cousin."
Seeing his familiar family members, Cheng Zongyang greeted each of them in turn.
"It's good to have you back safely." Seeing his son had returned unharmed, Cheng Guanghai happily patted his shoulder. Then, the group made their way to the meeting villa.
The other villagers happily dispersed to get back to their own tasks.
