In the village, they found an inn and settled in. That evening, the two sat by the window. Li Dalong brought out the Monkey Wine, and they savored the fine wine and delicious Immortal Fruit while admiring the night scenery outside.
Just then, a melodious flute tune drifted over from afar, dreamlike and illusory, soothing the heart and lifting the spirits.
"What a beautiful tune. Who's playing so wonderfully?" Ke Xialing asked.
Li Dalong pricked up his ears and listened closely. He discovered powerful Immortal Power within the music, and as he listened more carefully, he also detected a trace of Dao Rhythms entwined in the beautiful melody. Clearly, an expert was playing. He decided to seek out this expert and see whether they could become acquainted.
Following the music, the two arrived at a clearing, where they saw a young man in white robes playing a tune on an ancient-looking jade flute. His expression was focused and enraptured, as though he were completely immersed in his own world.
Li Dalong and Ke Xialing exchanged a glance, thinking to themselves, This senior must be no ordinary person.
They stood quietly to one side, waiting for the white-robed young man to finish. Once the music faded, Li Dalong stepped forward and cupped his fists in greeting. "We juniors, Li Dalong and Ke Xialing, have disturbed your enjoyment, Senior. Please forgive us."
The white-robed young man turned around, not at all surprised by their appearance. He gave them a mild glance and said, "No matter. Fate brought us together."
Li Dalong nodded. "We were drawn by your flute music, Senior, and came over on a whim to intrude upon you. I have some Monkey Wine that I happened to obtain. Might we have the honor of inviting you to share a cup?"