The middle-aged physician was astonished. He said this flaw was a secret of the Golden Needle Sect, known only to its successors, and that he himself had spent many years researching before finding a solution.
The two began discussing acupuncture techniques. The more they talked, the more they hit it off. The middle-aged physician even demonstrated his improved method for Lin Taichu on the spot, while Lin Taichu shared some of his own acupuncture experience with him.
Seeing how engrossed they were in conversation, the people nearby gathered around to listen to them discuss acupuncture techniques. Quite a few took out paper and brushes to record what they heard.
Chen Xiaoman stood beside Lin Taichu and listened intently, occasionally asking a question or two. Lin Taichu answered her patiently.
At noon, Hundred Herbs Hall prepared a meal, and everyone ate together in the courtyard. While they were eating, Elder Li came over.
"Taichu, Hall Master Zhou will speak with us later. He is very interested in you and wants to discuss methods for treating Gu poison."
Lin Taichu nodded. He also wanted to exchange ideas with Old Man Zhou. Old Man Zhou was widely knowledgeable and might know more about Gu poison.
That afternoon, Old Man Zhou had someone invite Lin Taichu to his study. The room was filled with bookshelves, all lined with medical texts. Old Man Zhou poured Lin Taichu a cup of tea, then took out a medical book and handed it to him.
"Take a look at this," Old Man Zhou said.
Lin Taichu accepted the book and opened it. It recorded methods for treating Gu poison, many of which he had never seen before. He read with great care, occasionally furrowing his brow in thought.
"I bought this from an old Taoist when I was