This teacher came in contact with Mr. Zhong the most compared to others, so he understood Mr. Zhong's status and temperament well. If the latter was disinterested toward someone, he would never waste his time on meeting them.
Judging by his reaction, Mr. Zhong might just have taken an interest in Tan Lin and intended to accept her as his disciple.
After all, given Mr. Zhong's unique standing, whichever student who managed to study under him was certain to rise to greater heights and success.
Forget the students, even if this man, a Rank 3 beast appraiser and an assistant lecturer, was offered the opportunity to learn under Mr. Zhong, he would take it in a heartbeat.
Mr. Zhong was a veteran Rank 4 beast appraiser after all. His erudition was considered above average even among Rank 4 beast appraisers.
One would reap countless benefits by virtue of becoming his disciple.