C63 Looking for Someone

Upon hearing Hanyu Xiaotian's remarks, Yi Xue remained silent, and Young Li was the picture of tranquility, a result of a lifetime's education in etiquette, rules, and the art of concealing one's emotions—a foundational requirement for his future political career.

Tang Yi, however, couldn't help but snort derisively. Liu Yan was even less able to contain herself, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she challenged, "Really? You've had these dishes before? Eat them every day, do you? Do you have any idea how much this spread costs? Can you even name these dishes? We ourselves indulge in them only on occasion! What you're probably thinking of is shredded potatoes, right?"

"Actually, I've never tried shredded potatoes," Hanyu Xiaotian replied earnestly. "In fact, everything I've tasted just now was new to me."

Liu Yan was at a loss for words. She couldn't muster the effort to scorn someone who hadn't even experienced the simplicity of shredded potatoes or sautéed cabbage with garlic. Her suspicion suddenly piqued, she eyed Hanyu Xiaotian warily. "What brings you here? Don't tell me you've set your sights on me or Yi Xue? Listen, don't be a toad lusting after swan meat. There's no chance for anything between us!"

Beside her, Yi Xue's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She shot Liu Yan a sharp look, "What are you even saying?"

Then, stealing a glance at Hanyu Xiaotian, she reconsidered her first impression. Despite his somewhat clumsy eating earlier, she now found the young man before her surprisingly attractive.

At just fifteen, Hanyu Xiaotian stood nearly 1.7 meters tall, with rosy lips, pearly teeth, deep, ink-like eyes, and an oval face that hinted at maturity—qualities enough to turn a woman's head.

Hanyu Xiaotian, for his part, was taken aback by Liu Yan's outburst, bewildered by the thoughts swirling in her mind.

He quickly clarified his purpose, "No, miss, you've got it all wrong. I'm actually here to speak with this gentleman." He gestured towards Hanyu Dingsheng, seated at the center of the group.

Hanyu Dingsheng, momentarily taken aback by the assertion, broke into a hearty laugh. "What wisdom do you have to share, young man?"

Hanyu Dingsheng had been aware of Hanyu Xiaotian's approach and had discreetly observed him interacting with the others—a habitual practice of his.

From Hanyu Xiaotian's gait and build to the right hand he revealed while pointing and the aura he exuded, Hanyu Dingsheng could tell that although the young man had trained in martial arts, he was certainly not a Martial Cultivator. He lacked the intrinsic energy fluctuations and the piercing aura characteristic of one.

Hanyu Dingsheng had long trusted his powers of observation and intuition, honed and validated through countless experiences.

And it was this very intuition that now stirred a peculiar sensation within him—a sense of familiarity emanating from Hanyu Xiaotian.

Yes, familiarity. But the source of this feeling? Could it possibly be...

"Um, could I have a private word, Brother?" Hanyu Xiaotian felt it was somewhat improper to discuss his personal matters in front of so many people.

At that moment, a young man named Tang Yi interjected with a hint of impatience, "Just speak up here if you've got something to say. We have other matters to attend to, and Young Master Frigid Feather is particularly busy. He likely doesn't have the time for idle chatter!"

"Um, if that's how it is, then may I be so bold?" Hanyu Xiaotian cast an inquiring look towards Hanyu Dingsheng.

After a brief pause, Hanyu Dingsheng responded, "We're all friends here. If you've got something on your mind, young man, feel free to speak your piece."