Lotus Basking In The Moonlit Mist 月光雾中沐浴的莲花

Chapter 6: Lotus Basking in the Mist (I)

Over the Cang Cui sect, Sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky golden orange, with pink tint, the banquet was set to begin. The grand hall was adorned with elegant tapestries and glowing lanterns, reflecting the sect's wealth and prestige.

Nian Zhi was still slightly on the edge from his earlier encounter. He entered the hall with a calm, collected demeanor. Being in seclusion had given him a certain level of aloofness, so he felt out of place in the midst of such a lavish event. 

" Ah, shixiong the air is thick with the scent of incense and lotus flowers. Peh! how pretentious! "

Nian Zhi let this dork accompany him. It's not that he let him, but his shidi was quite clingy, he couldn't get him off from his self. Though it comes with an advantage, he gets information before he'd even open his mouth to ask.

Nian Zhi replied nonchalantly, " you're right. Let's see if they are a real deal or similar to their 'pretentious' banquet "

As he scanned the room, his gaze met Yi Fan's. The disciple of Qing Cui sect was surrounded by a group of admirers, his charming smile and easy demeanor making him the center of attention. If not for the elders presence, the female disciples and male fans would have squeezed him into a ball.

Rui Ming face twisted, " He is not even that handsome. Are they blind? " As he swept his gaze at few meters away from the crowd, his face drastically twisted in shock- No, that can't impossible!? No way...

Rui Ming was busy with his own thoughts when Yi Fan caught Nian Zhi's eyes and sauntered over, his movements smooth and graceful.

"Ah, Nian Zhi," Yi Fan greeted, "I was beginning to wonder, if you'd remain a shadow all evening."

Nian Zhi returned the bow, expressionly, " Some of us prefer to observe rather than bask in the limelight, Yi Fan."

Yi Fan's smile widened. "But where's the fun in that? Surely, disciple of Elder Xuan has more to offer than mere obversation. Perhaps you'd indulge us all with a demonstration of your skills and see if I qualify as the real deal or not?"

Hearing the last sentence, Rui Ming's face gave away his feelings- He was scared out of his wits. He thanked the buddhas not to be challenged by the prodigy in a hall filled with people!

Before Nian Zhi could respond, sect leader Liu stood at the head of the room, raising his hand for silence. "Honored guests, tonight we gather not only to celebrate but to witness the strength and growth of our disciples. I propose a friendly competition-- an exchange of techniques." He laughed meerily as he made himself comfortable on his seat.

Applause filled the hall, Nian Zhi felt a slight unease settle in his heart. He is use to staying alone, now he felt so many eyes around him, precisely at Yi Fan who was beside him. He turned to his right, to look at the chatterbox, but the spot was empty! To his left, Yi Fan, however, seemed to relish the opportunity.

"I suppose it's time for us to see if your skills match your reputation," Yi Fan said with a wink, his tone light but laced with challenges.

For a few moments, Nian Zhi was rendered speechless, why did he have to wink? Is this the way of the world?

He gave a determined nod, "Then, I shall do my best, not to disappoint."