At daybreak the next morning, Shen Hui slowly opened his eyes.
He got up and stretched his limbs, then pushed open the window. The sky was already bright.
Morning light streamed through the lattice, spreading a pale gold sheen across the floor.
He first washed and dressed, then went next door to attend to the Old Taoist's morning ablutions.
When he pushed the door open, the Old Taoist was sitting cross-legged on the bed with his eyes closed, breathing slow and steady, his face serene. He was clearly meditating.
Shen Hui stood in the doorway and took a look. Judging by the stillness, the other man would probably not wake for another two or three hours, so Shen Hui quietly withdrew.
He thought about it, then decided to head to the kitchen and find himself something to eat.
A bowl of white rice porridge, two small dishes, and half a baked flatbread—he polished it all off in a few bites.
After wiping his mouth, he returned to his room, fetched brush and ink, and left a few words on a sheet of paper: "Your disciple is going out for a stroll."
He weighed the note down beneath a teacup, then turned and left.
Though he had been staying in Qu County for the past two days, he had hardly had a moment to spare. He had long been curious about the sights and customs of Yongchang Commandery.
Now that he had some free time, he meant to have a good look around.
Before leaving, he took the little gourd hanging from his waist and gave it a gentle shake, silently reciting a phrase.
A flash of blue light, and several books appeared in his hand.
Third Senior Brother had asked him to return them to Fragrant Snow Book Studio. Before