"Enough, Mei Weixuan. Spout any more nonsense and get the hell back home."
Master Yin, seated in the middle, roared. Mei Weixuan sheepishly fell silent, though he signaled Zhong Lin with his eyes.
Master Yin made a grasping motion through the air. The painting in Zhong Lin's hands was drawn by an invisible force and flew directly into his hand.
Zhong Lin's pupils contracted as he roared inwardly.
True Qi? Inner Force? This old man is an Upper Three Ranks martial artist?
Zhong Lin had already condensed his qi and blood, and he knew qi and blood could not achieve anything so miraculous. The man before him was undoubtedly an Upper Three Ranks powerhouse.
"It truly is exquisitely lifelike, as though alive. I never expected such superb painting skill to exist in this tiny Black Mountain County," Master Yin praised.
"Thank you for your praise, sir."
Zhong Lin hurriedly bowed, especially after witnessing the old man's strength.
"Hai Ming."
"Hai Ming is here."
"Send someone by fast horse to deliver this painting and the letter to Hundred Herbs Hall. There must be no delay."
"Yes."
County Magistrate Mei respectfully accepted the painting and the letter that had long been prepared, then quickly left the main hall. At the same time, he signaled for the constables to take Xu Ruo away.
Zhong Lin also said respectfully, "This subordinate shall take his leave as well."
"No rush."
Master Yin looked Zhong Lin over from head to toe, his gaze finally settling on Zhong Lin's hands. His tone grew somewhat urgent.
"Other than portraits, can you paint flowers and plants?"
Zhong Lin noticed the change in Master Yin's tone. Though he did not know what medicine the old man was selling from his gourd, he still nodded. "Of course I can."
"Could you