"Are you interested in the numbered series of cards too, Brother Xie?" Zu Ning wore a harmless smile. "If I remember correctly, Zhongda Academy has quite a reputation for card crafting. Have you needed to seek outside help these past two years?"
Xie Yanbai had dark skin, thick eyebrows, and large eyes. At first glance, he looked like a farmer who often worked in the fields, and his clothes were extremely plain. His gaze was clear and candid, conveying resolve and integrity. He grinned, revealing a row of snow-white teeth. "Zhongda Academy isn't as fabulously wealthy as your academy. We can't buy everything."
Among the Six Great Academies, the Federation Comprehensive Academy had the greatest financial resources but the shortest history. Coupled with its longstanding preference for paving the way with money, this often earned its students the sneering label of nouveau riche from students of the other five academies.
"Oh, then you've come here to unwind, Brother Xie?" Zu Ning asked mockingly. Without waiting for Xie Yanbai to answer, his gaze fell on the woman accompanying him, and he asked, "I haven't yet had the pleasure of learning this lady's name. How terribly rude of me!" Zu Ning bowed in apology with impeccable grace.
"You're too kind, Young Master Zu." The lady smiled calmly. "I'm Zhi Lian."
"Madam Zhi Lian!"
Zu Ning's expression changed slightly, and he cried out in surprise. Beside him, Bei Dong's expression also shifted, becoming even more somber.
Madam Zhi Lian smiled faintly. "To think even Young Master Zu knows of me. What an honor."
Zu Ning hurriedly bowed again, his manner respectful. "You jest, madam. Your name is renowned throughout the Federation. How could a youngster like me compare?" He was deeply shocked. He had never imagined Zhongda Academy would send Madam Zhi Lian.