Chapter 22: A Reunion with an Old Friend

Chapter 22: A Reunion with an Old Friend

Three years later.

Hu Tiehua and “Old Stinky” rode toward Lanzhou with three horses, spurred by the kidnapping of Old Stinky’s three nieces by the Black Pearl Bandit. Their destination? The abode of a certain “Dead Rooster.”

Midway, they reached a bustling town—not large, yet teeming with more pedestrians than most settlements. After a long ride, Hu Tiehua’s spirits lifted.

“Long day’s ride deserves a feast! Let’s grab a bite!” he declared, steering his horse toward the town.

Chu Liuxiang, however, had less appetite. His three beloved companions had been abducted, and he’d intended to head straight into the desert. But Hu Tiehua’s insistence on Lanzhou had rerouted them. Still, even urgent missions required meals. Sighing, Chu Liuxiang dismounted, leading two horses behind Hu Tiehua into the town.

Suddenly, Hu Tiehua’s nose twitched. Eyes widening, he inhaled deeply. “Smell that? We’re in luck—top-shelf liquor ahead!”

Chu Liuxiang doubted the timing for revelry, but even he caught the rich aroma. Moments later, they rounded a corner, spotting a lavish tavern: the Misty Waters Pavilion. Patrons streamed in and out—hungry arrivals, satisfied departures.

Hu Tiehua led the way, sniffing like a hound. “Old Stinky, dinner’s on me today!”

Chu Liuxiang smirked. He could afford such luxuries, but Hu Tiehua—nicknamed “Flower-Crazy” for his recklessness—certainly couldn’t. The tab would inevitably fall to him.

At the entrance, a host boy blocked their path, pinching his nose. “Outsiders, huh? Take your stink elsewhere.”

Hu Tiehua bristled. “You dare mock me?”

The boy shrugged. “Boss’s rule: no strong odors. Even kings could stink, but our patrons deserve better.”

Hu Tiehua muttered curses, then turned to Chu Liuxiang. “Guess the feast’s off.”

Chu Liuxiang feigned sympathy, secretly amused. Hu Tiehua’s hygiene habits were… lax.

But Hu Tiehua surprised him. Nodding at the boy, he retreated, muttering, “Picky brat.”

Chu Liuxiang followed, watching Hu Tiehua circle the tavern. Moments later, they reached the back alley.

“Wait—” Chu Liuxiang began, but Hu Tiehua had already leapt into the courtyard.

Inside, Hu Tiehua lounged at an Eight Immortals Table, surrounded by cold dishes and steaming vegetables. Servants carried jars of wine, their labels hinting at rare brews.

“Old Stinky! Feast’s ready!” Hu Tiehua bellowed.

Chu Liuxiang landed silently, eyeing the spread. “Where’s the host?”

Hu Tiehua ignored him, uncorking a jar. The scent of strong liquor wafted out—bold, intoxicating.

Then came the courses: squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, lamb, Five-Silk Camel Hump, ginger-scallion chicken, Dongpo pork.

Hu Tiehua dug in, praising each bite. Six jars lined the table—each a distinct vintage: strong aroma, soy sauce fragrance, rice wine, yellow wine, fruit wine.

Chu Liuxiang sipped a milky rice wine, impressed. “The host’s a connoisseur.”

Hu Tiehua grinned. “Wait till you taste the finale.”

As if summoned, a young man emerged, balancing a steaming white clay pot. His ponytail swayed, eyes sharp with disdain.

“There’s only one cook alive who seasons meat like this,” Hu Tiehua chuckled. “You!”

Li Chaofeng glared, setting down the pot. “Still kicking, I see. Fate’s cruel—I owe you a debt, you shameless brute.”

Hu Tiehua laughed, pounding the table. “Feast first! Debts later!”

Chu Liuxiang watched, amused. Old friends indeed—clashing yet inseparable.

(Please recommend to your friends and add to your collections.)

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end