Xi Baihe's gaze lingered on Yun Lintian for a moment longer before she turned towards Xi Xurou, her demeanor shifting subtly. The cryptic pronouncements and veiled allusions were replaced with a more direct, commanding tone, the tone of a ruler addressing her subject.
"Xurou," she said, her voice firm and clear, "I need to recuperate. The journey to the secret realm has taken its toll on me. See to it that our guests are escorted back to their quarters. And Xurou," she added, her voice dropping slightly, "gather the elders. I have matters to discuss with them, matters of great importance."
Xi Xurou, though still bewildered by her master's sudden reappearance and cryptic pronouncements, bowed her head in obedience. "Yes, Master," she replied, her voice filled with respect. "I will see to it immediately."
