Under Li Qingzhao's gaze, brimming with anticipation and burning intensity, Jiang Che lightly brushed his azure robe and strolled onto the white marble platform as leisurely as if he were walking through his own courtyard.
With every step he took, the serene air of a Banished Immortal descending into the mortal world around him grew more pronounced, as though the noisy, lavish hall of Drunken Apricot Tower had instantly become his private sanctuary among the clouds.
The clamor below strangely subsided by several degrees, and everyone's gaze was unconsciously drawn to that tall, straight figure.
The brothel steward had been busy making arrangements, but the instant he saw Jiang Che take the stage, he froze in place. A startling brilliance bloomed in his clouded eyes.
Having spent decades scrambling through the world of pleasure houses, he had seen countless scholars who fancied themselves romantic talents.
Yet a Young Master like this one, who could make every beauty in the hall pale into insignificance with nothing but his face and bearing—this was truly the first time he had ever seen such a thing!
Almost instinctively, the steward piled on a smile, bent low, and even made his tone exceptionally courteous. "Young Master, are you here to compose a poem in five steps and compete for the honor of becoming Ruyan's guest?"
Jiang Che gave a slight nod. His deep eyes casually swept over the Spring River Moonlit Night Painting, and an unhurried smile curled at the corner of his lips.
"Exactly."
"And the theme is still the mood of 'Spring River Moonlit Night,' with a poem composed in five steps, correct?"
The steward hurriedly cupped his hands, his face beaming. "So long as Young Master's poem earns Miss Ruyan's approval, then tonight's beautiful hour and lovely scene shall all be yours!"