The First National Preceptor of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 72

"It is truly an honor to meet you two gentlemen today."

The songstress smiled slightly, her eyes sparkling with sincerity. "If you don't mind, I would like to play another piece for you two as a token of my respect. This piece is called 'Songshan Qinshui,' and it is the masterpiece of my Red Pavilion. I hope that you two gentlemen will be pleased after hearing it."

Before the two could respond, she parted her lips and began to sing a melodious song.

The singing was like a clear mountain spring, flowing gently, and like the sound of pine trees rustling in the wind, echoing in my heart.

Xu Tian closed his eyes and listened, feeling refreshed and relaxed, as if he were on the top of Songshan Mountain, looking down at the clear stream flowing slowly by.

After the song ended, the songstress gently stroked the strings of her zither and looked tenderly at Xu Tian: "Young master, you seem to be moved. If you are willing, I would like to hear the details."

Xu Tian smiled slightly, already having made up his mind.

He stood up, walked to the singer's side, and softly recited a modern poem: "The moon rises above the willow branches, and we meet after dusk. This scene and this feeling, though not from ancient times, are still remarkably similar. I wish to give this poem to you as a response to 'Songshan Qinshui'."

Upon hearing this, the songstress's eyes flashed with surprise and admiration.

She savored Xu Tian's poems and felt that the emotions and artistic conception contained within them complemented her singing perfectly.

She nodded gently, expressing her deepest respect to Xu Tian: "I admire your talent, sir. I wish to remember this poem along with 'Songshan Qinshui' forever."

Du Erlang watched this scene from the side, and a warm feeling welled up in his heart.

He patted Xu Tian on the shoulder and laughed, "Your move was truly brilliant. Not only did it impress the top singer, but it also broadened our horizons."

Just as Du Erlang was praising Xu Tian and the atmosphere was harmonious, the doors of the Hong Kong Coliseum were suddenly pushed open, and a series of hurried footsteps broke the tranquility.

A richly dressed, arrogant guest barged in, followed by several burly men, looking menacing.

"Meiniang, I came here today especially for you. How can you hide backstage and refuse to see me?"

The guest's voice was loud and clear, carrying an unquestionable tone, clearly indicating that he was a powerful and influential person in the area.

The famous singer Mei Niang's expression changed slightly. She quickly straightened her clothes, stepped forward, and said in her gentle yet firm voice, "Young Master Li, Mei Niang is not feeling well today and is truly unable to sing for you. Please understand."

However, this young master Li didn't seem to have any intention of giving up easily. He sneered and said, "Feeling unwell? I think you just don't want to see me. Let me tell you, I'm going to take you away today, and you can't escape."

As he spoke, he stepped forward to take Mei Niang's hand.

Upon seeing this, Du Erlang frowned, stepped forward, and blocked Meiniang's path, saying, "Young Master Li, what do you mean by this? Meiniang has already said she is unwell, why are you forcing her to do something against her will?"

Young Master Li glanced at Du Erlang, a hint of disdain flashing in his eyes.

"Hmph, where did you come from? How dare you meddle in my business? Let me tell you, there's nothing in this city that I, Young Master Li, can't do."

Du Erlang did not back down. He straightened his back and said, "I don't care who you are, but you can't act wildly here. Meiniang is her own master, and she has the right to decide her own fate."

Upon hearing this, Young Master Li's face darkened, and the burly men behind him surrounded him, instantly creating a tense atmosphere.