"May I ask where Brother Zhao learned the qin? I can tell that the person who taught you to play such beautiful music must have been a master of the instrument."
"She was indeed a master of the qin." Zhao Zilong answered calmly. Seeing Han Fei, Wei Zhuang, and Zhang Liang approaching, Zhao Zilong rose and returned to his original seat. "Because of certain personal circumstances, I spent two years learning court etiquette. I learned to play the qin during that time as well. But after resolving my own issues, I never touched the qin again."
Han Fei did not press the matter further. Drawn by the fragrance of the wine, he teased, "It smells wonderful! Miss Zi Nu, Brother Zhao, and Nong Yu, you're drinking here without inviting me? That's too much."
"Young Master, you're here." Zi Nu stood and made room for Han Fei, but just as he was about to sit down, Zhao Zilong spoke. "That isn't a seat for you."
Han Fei looked a little embarrassed. Zhao Zilong said disdainfully, "I only drink with women, not men. If you want to drink, go somewhere else. Besides, this is my wine."
Han Fei gave an awkward smile. "Then let me pay for today's drinks. Miss Zi Nu, put all of Brother Zhao's wine expenses on my tab." With that, Han Fei ignored Zhao Zilong's objection and sat down.
"Sit, everyone, sit! Today's on me." Han Fei then called for everyone to take their seats.
Once everyone had sat down, Zhao Zilong looked at Han Fei and asked, "What did you come to see me about?"
"Can't I come just to drink with you?" Han Fei asked awkwardly.
"Sure. Then drink." Zhao Zilong picked up his wine cup and took a sip first.
Han Fei followed suit and