The sun was setting.
High in the sky.
The crescent moon, like a silver hook, had quietly risen above the blazing clouds.
A myriad rays of lingering sunset light poured down, casting golden streaks across the lake.
A gentle breeze swept by, sending ripples spreading across the water.
Several white egrets floated on the surface, swimming leisurely now and then and crying out a few times.
A few little birds hopped about on the treetops, chirping away without pause.
Clusters of blooming flowers burst with color, making the place resemble a beautiful hyperrealistic oil painting.
By the artificial lake outside the city, dozens of old men and women moved to a strongly rhythmic beat, celebrating and dancing wildly.
Elsewhere, many tables had been arranged in circles, with Yi Feng seated at the central one.
A huge jar of wine stood before everyone, while all kinds of delicious food were brought out.
Within ten minutes, the dazzling spread of dishes on every table had already begun piling up in layers.
Many wine jars, already completely empty, lay scattered carelessly across the grass beneath everyone's feet.
The crowd raised cups and traded toasts, passing wine back and forth in high spirits.
Before half an hour had passed, the alcohol had rushed straight to everyone's crowns.
Everyone was flushed red and brimming with excitement.
Lu Qingshan staggered over to Lu Dasheng with hazy little steps, hiccuping drunkenly.
Patting Lu Dasheng on the shoulder, he laughed loudly. "Hahaha! Do you know about Old Lu's embarrassing story from back then?"
"No!"
"Come on, tell us!"
Everyone chimed in, eager for the gossip.
"Him? Relying on his lousy identity as an alchemist, he came to our Qingshan Sect to show off, looking all high and mighty. Guess whose head he first ran into?"
"Who?"
"Old Lu,