Chapter 379

Steven entered and found Scarlett calmly arranging tea, exuding elegance and grace. Upon seeing him, Scarlett placed a cup of tea opposite her and remarked, "You're an unexpected visitor." They had always met at Purple Haze Mountain, so Steven's sudden appearance was a first, leaving Scarlett somewhat surprised. Steven, as nonchalant as ever, took a seat and chuckled sheepishly. "Ms. Fischer, I've known you for so long, yet this is my first visit. I apologize for my lack of etiquette. "With the impending showdown against Caspian Jenkins, I needed to unwind. Hence, I've come to invite you for a meal as a token of gratitude for your assistance all this while." "You've come to my restaurant to treat me?" Scarlett paused briefly, then smiled. With her usual calm demeanor, she instructed the waiter to prepare the dishes. She led Steven to a private booth, and they settled in. Scarlett glanced at Steven, who had arrived empty-handed, and teased, "You didn't bring any wine either?" Steven grinned awkwardly. "I rushed out and forgot. I'll make it up to you next time, Ms. Fischer." Fixing her clear, bright eyes on Steven, Scarlett smiled without saying a word. She then gestured subtly for the waiter to bring another bottle of red wine. Even Steven, known for his audacity, felt awkward under her gaze and quickly changed the subject. "By the way, the food at your restaurant is absolutely delicious. I visited once before and couldn't stop thinking about it." With that, Steven immersed himself in his meal. This wasn't mere theatrics. After the grueling battle, Steven was genuinely worn out and quite hungry. The cuisine at Red Dust Restaurant truly hit the spot. Amidst his hearty eating, Steven didn't forget to pour some wine for Scarlett. As the king of freeloaders, keen observation was essential. And as a grandmaster dedicated to his craft, Steven believed in giving his all to every pursuit. Scarlett slowly sipped her wine, observing Steven enjoy his meal. Steven finished his food before Scarlett could empty her glass. He wiped his mouth with a napkin and let out a content burp. "Ms. Fischer, dig in! There's no need to hold back with me." Scarlett smiled as she looked at the nearly empty dishes. Steven felt a hint of awkwardness. "Let me order another round of food for you, Ms. Fischer." "There's no need for that. I usually take an afternoon walk at this time..." Most people would tactfully leave at this point, but Steven wasn't one to follow convention. "I also enjoy walks. Let's go together!" With that, he promptly rose to open the door for Scarlett, embodying a gentlemanly demeanor. However, Scarlett didn't seem to mind, maintaining a subtle smile. They exited the restaurant and leisurely walked to the nearby lake. "Are you prepared for your duel with Caspian Jenkins?" Scarlett asked casually as they strolled. "I'm ready. I've already acquired a good plot of land in Northern Drakon for Caspian's burial." Steven merely grinned casually at the mention of Caspian's name, exuding extreme confidence. "Does Caspian know how confident you are?" Scarlett simply smiled. "Someone like him is nothing compared to me. I've already prepared his coffin!" Steven remarked nonchalantly. He made that statement as if it was a matter of fact, showing complete indifference to the disparity between himself and Caspian, despite having been outmaneuvered by the skilled and enigmatic Scarlett previously. If he were to lose, he might as well dig his own grave and bury any aspirations of being the heir of the Master Sage of Medicine. Upon hearing Steven's arrogant remark, ordinary folks might react with disdain, much like Yvonne would. However, Scarlett complimented him, "To achieve greatness, one must possess pride and confidence. These traits are essential for reaching the highest realm." "Do you see it the same way, Ms. Fischer?" Steven looked at Scarlett with astonishment. Her evaluation echoed striking similarities to what his Master Sage of Medicine had told him. Only those who stood at the summit, gazing upon greater vistas, could afford to give such a perspective from a position of superiority. On the other hand, individuals like Zane and Yvonne, who were mere novices, lacked this perception and remained rigid in their views.