When Li Ziran asked that question, the old man actually smiled in satisfaction, as though he felt Li Ziran had attained enlightenment and uncovered the most important thing.
The instant the old man smiled, Li Ziran understood why he had said Li Ziran was qualified to be served. In the old man's eyes, Li Ziran would surely have need of Six Flavors House's services in the future.
"You invited me here because you want to sign me on as a customer?" Li Ziran eyed the old man suspiciously. If it were him, perhaps he too would actively seek out customers.
Yet the old man shook his head. "Nothing of the sort. Six Flavors House has never lacked business; we haven't reached the point of forcing sales on people. I simply know you, young friend, and since you came today, I thought I'd chat about a few trifles."
Not even ghosts would believe that, let alone Li Ziran. He picked up a soaked bean and put it into his mouth. It crunched crisply between his teeth. Though he was not overly particular about food, he had tasted beans soaked in plain water before.
Because such beans absorbed too much water, their insides were generally soft. Ones this crisp were rare. Clearly, some special technique had been used, as though all the Water Element inside the beans had been squeezed dry.
These tiny beans were rather extraordinary.
Li Ziran carefully observed the elemental changes on his tongue. Sure enough, he could not sense the existence of any Water Element.
He then picked up a slice of chilled meat beside it. It was cool upon entering his mouth, carrying a burst of garlic fragrance. Unlike the soaked beans, the chilled meat contained an intense Water Element, along with all manner of miscellaneous elements.