At the Celestial Mechanism Institute of the Eastern Court, two celadon teacups sat before An Xiaolang. Tea fragrance curled through the air as he entertained Yao Li, who had come to visit him.
Yao Li wore her hair in a hanging bun today, dressed in a plain deep robe patterned with crabapple blossoms, cinched with a cinnabar silk sash. A fragrant pouch and jade pendants hung at her waist, while a coral bead bracelet circled her wrist. In the Eastern Court, this was a common attire for young women of Celestial Xia.
It happened to be a rest day. Auspicious Light City was not far from the Celestial Mechanism Institute in Anzhou, so it was very convenient to come by flying vessel.
An Xiaolang had never met Yao Li before; they had only exchanged letters. Knowing that she was also Zhang Yu's student, he had been extremely warm toward her and had specifically carved half a day out of his busy schedule to receive her. Curious, he asked, "Why didn't Junior Sister Yao Li go have a look around the continent market? Why come here instead?"
Yao Li said, "Last time, Senior Brother Qing He mentioned you. After that, I presumptuously sent you several letters. Since I had never met you, Senior Brother, and I happened to come to Anzhou this time, I came to pay you a visit."
An Xiaolang laughed heartily and spread his hands. "Well? Does this Senior Brother's appearance disappoint you, Junior Sister Yao Li?"
Yao Li looked at him and shook her head. "Not disappointed, but not pleasantly surprised either."
An Xiaolang's smile froze.
Yao Li picked up a teacup from the table and covered her mouth with her sleeve, looking at him only with her clear, dark eyes. "I was only joking with Senior