"Two or three dishes each of meat and vegetables will do."
"Coming right up!" the waiter called. "Please wait a moment, Daoist masters."
"Fellow Daoist San Shu, customers truly flock to this tavern like clouds."
"Indeed. Such crowds are rare even in the other commanderies."
As the two chatted, a deep, resonant voice sounded behind them.
"You two Daoist masters must be new to our Moon Lake Commandery."
Xu Chuan turned to see a young man of about twenty approaching in a moon-white robe, holding a jade fan decorated with ink bamboo. His face was as fine as polished jade, his brows like cold stars, and a gentle smile touched his lips, without a trace of arrogance or ostentation.
Four guards accompanied him, all martial artists at the Houtian Peak.
This must be the Zhou Household member mentioned in the divination signs.
"Who might you be, young master?"
"May I join you?"
"Please, help yourself," Xu Chuan said mildly.
The young man in the moon-white robe took no offense at his cool tone and sat in an empty seat.
"My name is Zhou Yilin."
"What business do you have with us, Young Master Zhou?" Xu Mingxian asked coldly.
"I have great admiration for Immortal Masters. Having happened upon you today, I could not help approaching to speak with you. Please forgive the intrusion."
"Speak plainly, Young Master Zhou."
"Can either of you refine pills? Our Zhou Household is seeking pill masters. If you can lend us a hand, we will certainly reward you generously."
Zhou Yilin cupped his hands toward them.
Xu Mingxian looked at Xu Chuan, surprise in his eyes.
Well, wasn't this a stroke of luck?
"I do know something of medicine and healing arts," Xu Chuan said mildly, "but I cannot say whether I will be of