[Editor's note: This chapter has been edited to remove content that breaks our content rules.]
Chapter 213
Leaving the residence, Lin Xuan felt refreshed and light on his feet.
He crossed several bustling streets and made his way to the Prince of Zhennan’s residence, following a familiar route.
He had barely stepped over the threshold and rounded the screen wall when he ran into Duan Zhengchun, the Prince of Zhennan, who was preparing to go out.
Duan Zhengchun wore splendid brocade robes. Though nearly forty, he had taken excellent care of himself, and his face was as handsome as polished jade.
“Well, if it isn’t Brother Lin!”
The moment Duan Zhengchun saw Lin Xuan, his eyes lit up. His delight was unmistakable. He hurried forward and caught Lin Xuan by the arm, greeting him as warmly as a brother reunited after years apart.
“I was just thinking of sending someone to invite you over, and here you are! Come, come! A few jars of century-aged wine arrived at the residence today. We must drink three hundred cups—neither of us is leaving sober!”
Lin Xuan maintained his gracious, polished manner.
He smiled apologetically. “Your Highness is most kind, but… I actually came today because I have an appointment with the princess consort. We intend to discuss Daoist teachings.”
“Oh? Fenghuang?” Duan Zhengchun paused, then nodded in understanding. He knew that Dao Baifeng was devoted to Daoism and practiced at the Jade Void Temple outside the city without having taken full monastic vows.
“Of course, of course. This must be about Yu’er, then? If you hadn’t come to his rescue last time, who knows how much more hardship that boy would have suffered out there? Fenghuang has often mentioned wanting to thank you these past few days.”
At the mention of Dao