Chapter 112: From Ashes to Azure Silk
Decadent desserts, delicate pastries, and fragrant teas adorned every inch of the table. A servant carefully placed a cup of fruit wine and roasted quail skewers before me.
Tianyi fluttered her blue wings softly as she perched on the cup, while Windy slithered out of my sleeve and began his feast on the roasted quails.
I cleared my throat and addressed the man seated across from me. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, Patriarch Wei Yong. Your hospitality is truly generous."
The man inclined his head slightly, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. His black hair, streaked with silver, flowed down to his shoulders, and a long, well-groomed beard framed his stern yet dignified face. He exuded an aura of authority and wisdom, every bit the leader of the Azure Silk Trading Company. My two companions didn't seem to care, however, as they gleefully dug into the lavish meal before them.
"It is my pleasure, Kai Liu," he replied, his voice deep and measured. The man's gaze lingered over Tianyi and Windy for a brief moment. "Your performance in the Gauntlet was nothing short of extraordinary. You have earned this meeting and more. It is rare to see someone with not just one, but two spirit beast companions. Their presence is a testament to your unique abilities."
I nodded, still getting acclimated to the opulence I was surrounded by. "They have been invaluable partners in my journey. I must also thank Lady Xiao-Yun for giving me this opportunity. Without her initial support, I wouldn't be here today."
Wei Yong's eyes twinkled with a hint of pride. "My daughter has a keen eye for talent. She spoke highly of you even before the Gauntlet. But your near victory was... unexpected, to say the least."
In my mind, I couldn't help but marvel at how quickly my fortunes had changed. Lady Xiao-Yun probably thought I'd make it one or two rounds into the Gauntlet, but certainly not a hair's breadth from winning it all. It was no wonder the Patriarch himself was now involved; I was no longer just a promising alchemist—I was a high-profile one with potential for years to come.
"I appreciate her belief in me. I hope to continue proving myself worthy of that trust."