Chapter 683

At this moment, the scholar in green finally came to his senses. Frowning, he said, "Painting is such a tedious thing. Why do you like it? And..." After a brief pause, he continued, "This painting was done by my ancestor, the renowned master of this era, Wang Xizhi."

"I know. Otherwise, how could it possibly resemble the old gentleman's style so closely?" Han Rui said with a smile.

The scholar in green froze, astonished. "How did you know?"

"I once paid Old Master Wang a visit." Han Rui smiled faintly. "I was fortunate enough to receive his instruction."

The scholar in green gave Han Rui a long look, muttering inwardly, What kind of monster is this? He actually had the chance to receive Wang Xizhi's guidance. Even many high-ranking officials and nobles might not have such an honor.

He could not help feeling a trace of envy, jealousy, and resentment. After all, such an opportunity was something one could only hope to encounter.

"Brother Han, this Shan He Tu was painted by Old Master Wang?"

"Of course." Han Rui smiled. "Guaranteed genuine."

"Wang Xizhi's calligraphy and painting?" The young man's eyes widened in disbelief.

"That's right." Han Rui nodded, then said with a grin, "Young master, I remember you. Your surname is Zhang, and your name is Zhang Dehua, right?"

"You know me?" Zhang Dehua blinked and examined him curiously. Han Rui looked to be thirteen or fourteen years old. His clothes were plain and simple, yet clean and neat, without the slightest hint of disorder. Clearly, he cleaned and tidied himself often. Moreover, he gave off a very comfortable impression—gentle as jade, with a bright smile, neither servile nor overbearing, without any of that arrogant, domineering air.

"We met before in the Capital City." Han Rui smiled. "My memory