After entering the private room, Ye Yilan poured herself a full cup of wine, raised it as she approached Ding Dekun, and drained it with a smile blooming like a flower.
Ding Dekun showed little expression.
The two young men sitting beside him, however, stole several extra glances at Ye Yilan.
The others then entered one after another.
"Greetings, Senior Brother Ding."
Lu Xinghe went forward to greet Ding Dekun first, then briefly introduced everyone.
Only when he introduced Xiang Poji and Chen Cheng did a faint ripple finally pass through Ding Dekun's indifferent gaze.
Then Lu Xinghe continued, "Senior Brother Ding Dekun here is the foremost of our Outer Sect disciples. He's certain to advance to the Inner Sect this year!"
"On his left is Senior Brother Fan Jiuchong, and on his right is Senior Brother Sun Qi. Both rank among the strongest in the Outer Sect, and both have an excellent chance of advancing to the Inner Sect!"
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"Greetings, Senior Brother Ding, Senior Brother Fan, Senior Brother Sun."
Xiang Poji, Chen Cheng, and Zhou Chu immediately cupped their fists and bowed, observing every courtesy.
"Sit."
Ding Dekun uttered the single word indifferently.
Only then did everyone take their seats.
Immediately afterward, a stream of maids filed in, swiftly bringing the food and wine to the table.
The wine cups were filled.
Lu Xinghe chuckled. "The food and wine are all here. Before we pick up our chopsticks, let's ask Senior Brother Ding to say a few words!"
At this, everyone's gaze naturally settled on Ding Dekun.
But Ding Dekun merely waved impatiently, with no intention of saying anything and no concern whatsoever about leaving an awkward silence.
Lu Xinghe gave an embarrassed smile.
Seeing this, Xiang Poji stood with his wine cup and said with a hearty