Black Sand City was a small town measuring only three li across in either direction. Su Yuchi had arranged the dinner at Guanlan Tower near the East Gate. It was only a two-story building, and the only multistory building in Black Sand City.
Guanlan Tower and its surroundings had already been cleared. Only one table had been arranged for tonight.
On hearing that Hu Xiaotian had arrived, Su Yuchi personally went outside to welcome him. Even though they belonged to opposing camps, he had to admire Hu Xiaotian's courage. Of the three parties invited, Hu Xiaotian was the only one who dared enter his territory in person, and he had even dared attend tonight's banquet with only a single attendant.
Su Yuchi cupped his fists and smiled. "It has been nearly half a year since we parted in Eastern Liang Commandery. Fortunately, Lord Hu, you remain as distinguished as ever."
Hu Xiaotian smiled. "And General Su grows stronger with age!"
Behind Su Yuchi, Yuan Qingshan's expression darkened. Su Yuchi was forty-one this year, hardly old. Hu Xiaotian's remark clearly bordered on disrespect.
Su Yuchi did not mind, however. He gestured invitingly. "Please!"
Hu Xiaotian stepped into Guanlan Tower, and they went up to the second floor, where the food and wine were already prepared. Su Yuchi invited Hu Xiaotian to sit, while Yuan Qingshan asked Huo Shengnan to dine downstairs. Two tables had been prepared there specifically for Hu Xiaotian's attendants, but no one had expected him to bring only one person.
"I'm not hungry," Huo Shengnan said calmly.
In truth, Yuan Qingshan wanted to draw her away so Hu Xiaotian and Su Yuchi could speak privately.
Hu Xiaotian smiled. "Shengnan, go wait for me."
Only then did Huo Shengnan nod and follow Yuan Qingshan downstairs.
Su Yuchi and Hu