Hutu left, his retreating back appearing somewhat dejected.
But no one paid attention to a loser anymore. Compared to him, everyone's interest was focused on Li Chonglou's unconventional protégé.
It was evident to all that Old Master Fu's final words showed favoritism towards Li Chonglou. Upon further inquiry, it was learned that Li Chonglou was the one who brought the young man in.
As a long-time friend of the host, Master Liu, many had already been speculating that the Liu family's backing was this white-haired elder.
Instantly, the appraisal of Li Chonglou soared.
Of course, these were later developments. Liu Rui's statement had, in fact, brought the evening's theme back on track.
Ah Dong and his companion hurried over, looking relieved and expressing their gratitude, "Brother Hua Dong, you're truly something. If it weren't for you tonight, I think we would have met our end here."
"I knew it, Brother Hua Dong would surely have a way!"
Li Chonglou chuckled lightly, "Is that so? But that's not what I saw earlier."
Li Chonglou had observed the shift in their expressions. Before Liu Rui conceded, where was any sign of hope?
Their resentful gazes were likely filled with countless curses directed at him in their hearts.
Seeing Li Chonglou expose them in public, both men became somewhat embarrassed.
Fortunately, Old Master Fu arrived with Yu Xianxian, diffusing the situation.
"Uncle Hua Dong, how do you know so much?"
Yu Xianxian approached with a bright smile. As the only person present who felt apologetic towards Li Chonglou, her happiness was genuine.
However, before Li Chonglou could respond, Old Master Fu also walked over and said, "Xianxian, that's impolite. That's his private matter."
Li Chonglou shook his head and smiled, "It's nothing. I just wandered the martial world in my youth, saw and experienced a bit more."
These words carried a touch of personal sentiment.
Although after returning from Tielin, perhaps influenced by heavenly forces, his social circle had steadily ascended, he had never truly abandoned his interest in antiques.
His understanding of spiritual artifacts stemmed from his encounters with treasure appraisers in the underworld. He had learned about special containers from Master Jianwen.
At that time, upon learning that special herbs required special containers for preservation, he had privately researched related matters.
He had also perused information from the antique world. Although his review was only a cursory glance then, as a gifted individual, his memory was outstanding among ordinary people.
He never expected that an unintentional effort would yield such results, helping him at this very moment.
His reflections, however, were perceived by others as carrying profound stories.
Even Ah Dong and his companion added a layer of intriguing mystery to their impression of him.
Old Master Fu smiled, "It seems Brother Hua Dong has quite the extensive experience."
Li Chonglou bowed, "Senior, you flatter me. I am merely relying on my age. Ultimately, he is formally trained. Given a little more time to develop, I would have been the one leaving tonight."
Old Master Fu raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Brother Hua Dong, are you hinting at something?"
"How could I dare? Senior misunderstands."
"I am merely curious, Brother Hua Dong, are you truly an unconventional talent?"
Upon hearing the term "unconventional talent," Li Chonglou couldn't help but slightly furrow his brow.
It wasn't that he minded the words, but rather he suddenly felt that within this circle, most people subconsciously held a disdain for the term.
Perhaps he needed to devise a good origin story for himself?
"Don't misunderstand. I have no prejudice against unconventional talents; I've simply encountered very few individuals who have emerged successfully from such paths."
Li Chonglou remained silent for a moment before replying, "Actually, strictly speaking, I cannot be considered an unconventional talent."
"Oh?"
This statement immediately piqued the curiosity of several people.
"In my youth, I apprenticed under several elder masters. However, my talent was limited, and my skills were not refined. Ultimately, I failed to live up to their expectations and did not follow the righteous path, so I prefer not to mention it."
"It would also shame them to have an elder like me bring them disgrace."
This humble posture was certainly captivating and whetted their appetites.
Old Master Fu inquired curiously, "Do the elders you speak of have any titles?"
Li Chonglou shook his head.
Whether his摇头 meant he had no such elders or he was unwilling to say was unclear, intensifying their curiosity.
Old Master Fu did not press further. Meanwhile, Li Chonglou's words had subtly shifted his position from an unconventional talent to someone of orthodox background.
His objective was thus achieved.
Hutu's incident was a mere interlude for most, and their attention quickly returned to the main event of the evening.
However, without Hutu, Old Master Fu had lost his target.
Despite his vast experience, antiques were not his specialty. He might be able to identify spiritual artifacts, but discerning their authenticity was beyond his capabilities.
"Brother Hua Dong, it's up to you from here on."
Li Chonglou inquired, "What kind of antique is Old Master Fu looking for?"
"You'll have to ask Xianxian about that."
Yu Xianxian replied somewhat shyly, "I want to buy a birthday gift for my grandfather."
"Does your grandfather have a preference for a particular era or style? Or any specific requirements?"
Antiques come in many varieties. Some prefer landscape paintings, while others favor jade carvings. Although most people are collectors as long as the item is a genuine treasure, they all have their personal preferences.
In fact, Li Chonglou had already made his own conjectures regarding these questions. His inquiry now was more about fostering further interaction with Old Master Fu and Yu Xianxian.
People become acquainted through interaction. Once enough is said, a natural closeness develops.
If he wanted to leave tonight, he would need the help of this Old Master Fu!
As expected, Yu Xianxian then mentioned landscape paintings.
Of course, she also provided many details, to which Li Chonglou responded with occasional affirmations.
However, his attention was constantly drawn to the mysterious treasure, which even his Heavenly Eye 透视神通 could not fully discern.
"What a pity, this item isn't a landscape painting."
Although he couldn't see clearly, he could discern its outline. With three more items to be presented before the mysterious treasure appeared, it was likely something like a jade bangle.
However, he still needed to find a way for Yu Xianxian to purchase it.
This place was crowded, and with Old Master Fu and that Liu Rui present, it was difficult for him to act. He might even be unable to return to Kyoto tomorrow after buying it!
Therefore, it would be best for Yu Xianxian to buy it first. At least they would have met, making future transactions easier.
After some thought, Li Chonglou suddenly came up with a good idea.
"Landscape paintings are common, but finding a good one is difficult."
Li Chonglou shook his head. Yu Xianxian's delicate eyebrows knitted slightly.
"Then what should we do?"