This had to be Elder Kong's cultivation grotto.
CREAK!
The door to the cottage was ajar. Elder Kong stood in the courtyard with his hands clasped behind his back, his back to him, gazing at several stalks of emerald bamboo. The masterly aura he had exuded during the ceremony had subsided, replaced by an air of greater peace and profundity.
"This junior, Lin Changheng, pays his respects to Elder Kong."
Lin Changheng stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
Elder Kong slowly turned, a gentle smile on his face as his gaze fell upon Lin Changheng. "There's no need for such ceremony. I noticed during the lecture that your mind was elsewhere, endlessly contemplating. It seems you've had some insights, but also some lingering doubts?"
Lin Changheng was moved, realizing the elder had been paying attention to him. He answered candidly:
