When Gu Shentong first saw Xiang Yang, he was mildly surprised. Unlike the cold, ruthless, sinister figure he had imagined, Xiang Yang looked grounded and steady. Setting aside their prejudices, he even seemed rather approachable.
Xiang Yang had experienced much over the years, spending most of them amid fighting and slaughter. Yet at this moment, not the slightest trace of Killing Intent clung to him. He was like a ray of warm winter sunlight, shining straight into one's heart.
Still, Gu Shentong's heart tightened, and he secretly raised his vigilance to the utmost. He actually could not see through this young man. And what could not be seen through meant variables. Anyone renowned across two provinces was indeed no simple person.
"Since Senior has invited me, Xiang would not dare refuse."
Xiang Yang cupped his fists, a faint smile on his face, as though the man before him was not his mortal enemy, but an old friend he had not seen in years.
The two sat down. The stone stools were icy and damp from the morning mist, but neither noticed.
"This wine is part of my collection from forty years ago. It is mellow, fragrant, and brewed from ninety-nine different berries. If you are not afraid that I have poisoned it, you may have a taste."
Gu Shentong poured himself a cup, then gestured for Xiang Yang to help himself. After all, he had prepared the wine and dishes, and this was before their decisive battle. It would be easy for others to suspect poison and guard against it.
"Haha, Senior Gu's reputation has resounded through Yongzhou for decades. I have heard that you kill men like cutting grass and have a heart as hard as iron and stone, yet never have I heard of you using despicable tricks