Hong Xi was merely showing formal politeness to Yuan Yunzhong, so he paid no further attention to his emotions.
He beamed at Song Jiyun and said, "It's somewhat of a pleasant surprise, isn't it? I've returned from Suzhou and am unfamiliar with Liang County, but having a senior here holding an official position gives me someone to consult with in future matters."
At this point, he also exclaimed pensively, "It's beyond me why the finance inspectors went mad this time, seizing our family's goods; otherwise, I wouldn't have met Lord Jiang."
Song Jiyun exchanged a few pleasantries with him, and then Registrar Wang began to invite everyone to take their seats.
This time, Magistrate Jiang did not directly mention Song Jiyun by name, and Registrar Wang, fearing she might become too conspicuous and invoke jealousy, intentionally seated her in a corner, along with Yuan Yunzhong, for the meal.