Daily Life

Just as Sun Shaozong had expected, once Vice Minister of Works Zhang Qiu learned the full story, he flew into a rage. He called out his second son and, right in front of Sun Shaozong and Liu Xianglian, prepared to give him another beating with the stick.

Sun Shaozong naturally did his utmost to stop him. Only after much persuasion did Zhang Qiu instead order his son to apologize to Liu Xianglian.

After that, host and guests enjoyed themselves to the fullest. Sun Shaozong and Zhang Qiu reminisced about their days proctoring examinations at the Examination Hall, then discussed the current circumstances of the Recommended Men from that cohort. The more they talked, the more congenial they became.

Of course, that was only the surface appearance.

In truth, Zhang Qiu had taken the initiative to lower his standing and accommodate Sun Shaozong, which was why their conversation had gone so pleasantly.

Though Zhang Qiu never stated it outright, Sun Shaozong vaguely sensed that this minister likely had some use for him, which was why he had been so warm and attentive.

Thus, by the time they had eaten and drunk their fill, the two had forged a considerable degree of "revolutionary friendship."

By the time Sun Shaozong emerged from Zhang Qiu's residence, the moon had risen above the willow branches.

After parting with Liu Xianglian at the gate, Sun Shaozong noticed that Li Xian's home was nearby and stopped by to pay a visit.

This was his first time seeing Li Xian's father, Li Sheng, since returning to the capital. Compared with the dispirited invalid he had been two years ago, Li Sheng now seemed vastly improved in spirit. Whenever he grew excited, his face flushed red and he spoke with flying spittle.

But his body had already completely