Chapter 19: What's This? Lin'er's Heart Stirring Already?
Why was it only half sincere and half polite?
If this had been the former Xiao Clan, then Xiao Zhan's words would've been completely sincere. But now, with the Xiao Clan being flattered and praised by countless powers, poised for meteoric rise, even though Xiao Zhan wasn't the type to bully or look down on others, he couldn't appear too friendly when receiving visitors from every direction.
He had heard of Mr. Yao's reputation, but in this situation, who could say for certain what hidden motives others might have when offering congratulations? So Xiao Zhan's words held both genuine respect and polite reservation.
After exchanging a few customary compliments, Mr. Yao called Jiang Lin forward and had him present the smaller wooden box. Bowing slightly, Mr. Yao said, "We happened to hear of the joyful occasion at the Xiao Clan during our visit to Wu Tan City. There wasn't much time to prepare, so please accept this century-old Yellow Essence Ginseng. Combined with other herbs, it may help temper young master Xiao Yan's body. If an alchemist can be found, its effects may be even better. I hope Clan Leader Xiao won't mind this humble offering."
Mr. Yao truly hadn't prepared much in advance. He had brought the ginseng from Wan Yao Pharmacy as a backup—for purchases, gifts, or bribes in a pinch. This was the wisdom of a true old-timer.
"How could I mind? For someone as noble and kindhearted as Mr. Yao to visit my Xiao Clan is already an honor," Xiao Zhan replied, clearly pleased upon hearing the ginseng could aid Xiao Yan's training. He accepted it with a smile and had a servant hold it nearby.
It was time for Jiang Lin to play his part. Holding the larger box, he stepped forward respectfully. "Uncle Xiao, this contains a pair of Low-Tier Yellow Rank gauntlets—Flowlight. It's a gift from me, Jiang Lin, to Brother Xiao Yan."
Jiang Lin didn't know whether he was older or younger than Xiao Yan, but in situations like this, calling him "brother" in front of elders was always safe.
Xiao Zhan was a little surprised—not only that this young boy was presenting a gift in his own name, but also at the item itself. Flowlight was worth as much as a Mid-Tier Yellow Rank Dou Technique. And their clan's best cultivation method was only at the Profound Tier!
Could Jiang Lin really have given that on his own?
No way. Definitely not. Clunk! Stamped as "clearly arranged by Mr. Yao!"
Smiling, Xiao Zhan praised Jiang Lin a few times. In his heart, he figured Mr. Yao just wanted the boy to build some social connections. Still, he had to admit—Jiang Lin was a charming, delicate-looking youth anyone would find likable.
After a few more pleasantries, Mr. Yao prepared to leave. Xiao Zhan tried to persuade them to stay for lunch since their combined gifts were worth more than ten thousand gold coins, but Mr. Yao politely declined. He claimed other visitors were expected—and sure enough, Lin Shi arrived shortly after with one of his trusted men. Xiao Zhan, now occupied, could no longer insist.
Mr. Yao greeted Lin Shi, then led Jiang Lin away.
As they walked down a corridor, a graceful young girl in a flowing blue dress approached from the other end. Her figure was slender and elegant, her beauty radiant.
Jiang Lin raised an eyebrow, carefully taking in the sight of the girl approaching them. He didn't know why, but she gave him a feeling completely unlike anyone else.
Even their brief glance the previous night at the market had left him with a lingering impression.
It wasn't some romantic flutter or pounding heart—it was like wandering through a gray and dull world and suddenly spotting a lone, snow-white lotus blooming in pure golden light. Anyone would be struck by it—surprised, intrigued.
Jiang Lin's dark eyes briefly met Xiao Xun'er's bright jade-gold gaze. Then he and Mr. Yao politely stepped aside to let her pass.
Xiao Xun'er said nothing. Her gaze lingered briefly on Jiang Lin before she walked on as if nothing had happened.
A faint, pleasant fragrance drifted to Jiang Lin as she passed.
"What's this? Lin'er, is your heart starting to stir?" Mr. Yao teased with a chuckle as they continued walking.
Xiao Xun'er's beauty wasn't diminished by her young age. Even Mr. Yao, with his seasoned composure, had been momentarily stunned when he saw her. She was the kind of girl who instantly embodied the idea of a pure, flawless moonlit goddess.
And the only way to be immune to her charms… was to already have a moonlight goddess in your heart just as radiant.
Jiang Lin rolled his eyes. This old man clearly just wanted to mess with him.
Seeing Jiang Lin hadn't been ensnared by beauty, Mr. Yao smiled warmly. "Good self-control. Remember, Lin'er—those who are extraordinarily beautiful are usually symbols of both power and trouble. From the way the other Xiao clansmen addressed her, that Miss Xun'er has quite a reputation in the family."
Once they left the Xiao estate, Mr. Yao looked back at the building and added with a smile, "Beauty is a kind of strength. I don't mean it can replace raw power, but rather—true beauty requires enough power to protect it."
"From her features and aura, that Miss Xun'er's beauty clearly exceeds what ordinary people can possess. I don't know what you were looking at just now, but when I glanced at her eyes… I saw a calmness that only a great clan can instill."
Mr. Yao had seen many beautiful common girls in his life. But most had one thing in common—"empty eyes."
"Wait, you—Mr. Yao, how do you know all this stuff?!" Jiang Lin looked at him suspiciously. He now seriously suspected this outwardly proper man was secretly a massive pervert!
Mr. Yao simply smiled and held up one finger.
"First, I'm a physician. I've seen many people. I know how rare perfect health and beauty truly are."
Then he raised a second finger.
"Second, Miss Xun'er's aura… is very similar to someone I once knew."
(END CHAPTER)
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