In contrast to Cui Jingzhong's shock and loss of composure, Qiao Ting's face had remained expressionless from beginning to end.
"What a boor you are, coming from the wilds. You've wasted a perfectly good cup of tea.
"But even if you drank it, you would only be an ox chewing peonies, unable to appreciate the flavor. I suppose that makes little difference?"
Qiao Ting's delicate brows drew together slightly as she said:
"You took a detour around Little Plum Mountain, where I usually practice the zither, and came toward White Sun Waterfall. Were you going to the storehouse for spiritual herbs? Since you've finished your tea, hurry along. There's no need to stay here offending my eyes."
Cui Jingzhong was already accustomed to such cutting remarks. His expression did not waver, nor did he grow angry.
He was simply rather baffled...
But not having to sit here facing Qiao Ting in silence was a stroke of luck for Cui Jingzhong.
He nodded repeatedly, took Chen Heng by the arm, and made to leave the pavilion.
"I said you could leave, not him."
Qiao Ting lifted her long, thick lashes slightly, like a black butterfly beating its wings:
"I haven't finished my business with him. But that has nothing to do with you, Cui Jingzhong."
"Wait, you came here deliberately to intercept Junior Brother Chen?"
Cui Jingzhong froze, then immediately understood.
The main hall of the Alchemy Chamber held restrictions that the True Lord had personally laid down. No one but Cui Jingzhong could enter easily-not even Qiao Ting.
And Qiao Ting had always practiced her zither at Little Plum Mountain.
Yet this time, despite taking a detour around Little Plum Mountain, they had still encountered her...
The intention behind it went without saying.
"But, but..."
Cui Jingzhong could not help