"Brother Lin, think this through. The Heavenly Observatory Court deals with demons and evil spirits, and sometimes you even have to accompany the Evil-Quelling Office on missions. How could a frail scholar like you endure that kind of torment?" Zhao Xin urged.
Dealing with demons and evil spirits is exactly what I want...
Lin Nan had come to Jiangzhou Prefecture precisely to draw on the prefectural city's resources and obtain more information about demons and evil spirits.
At that thought, he shook his head and sighed. "Brother Chen, there's no need to persuade me further. Demons and evil spirits are rampant these days. Though my constitution is weak, I'm willing to contribute what little strength I have."
"Fine, let's drop it. You'll understand once you've suffered for it anyway."
Zhao Xin glanced around, then hurriedly leaned close to Lin Nan's ear.
"Don't say your brother never looked out for you. Now that the exams are finally over, I've arranged to meet a few scholars from the prefectural city tonight. We'll take you to the Fragrant Harmony Pavilion to hear some songs and have some fun. Coming?"
"The Fragrant Harmony Pavilion?" Lin Nan's brows drew tightly together. Just the name told him it was no respectable place!
He said gravely, "Brother Zhao, you've misunderstood me. I'm not that sort of man. I'm an upright person, with no taste for women."
"Keep fooling yourself if you like, but don't try fooling your brother!" Zhao Xin looked utterly speechless.
"Come on. I'll introduce you to a few sons of wealthy merchants here, too. It'll help your future official career."
"Never mind. Another day, perhaps. You know I never go out at night," Lin Nan declined.
Night fell. In the woods a hundred li east of the prefectural city.
Bang!
Blood and qi surged