A flash of white caught Yun Lintian's eye – a handsome young man in pristine white robes stood beside him, a friendly smile gracing his features.
"Apologies for the intrusion, fellow traveler. I'm Xiao Hu from the Flying Tiger Sect." the young man greeted with a cupped fist. "Your composure amidst this anxious crowd piqued my curiosity."
Indeed, compared to the frenetic energy radiating from the surrounding figures, Yun Lintian appeared remarkably calm. This air of serenity sparked Xiao Hu's interest in the newcomer's identity.
"Yun Lintian, a wandering cultivator," Yun Lintian replied, returning the gesture.
A flicker of surprise crossed Xiao Hu's face. Yun Lintian exuded an aura that belied his claim of being a mere unaffiliated cultivator. However, Xiao Hu wisely chose to forgo further inquiry.
"Your first visit to the Central Region?" he inquired instead.
"Indeed," Yun Lintian confirmed. "What about yourself?"