Zhang Ju froze at his words, then brightened. "That sounds good. I happen to have these two days off, which is why I had time to come and bring you back."
He naturally wanted to grow closer to his cousin and strengthen their ties.
Both had already eaten dinner, so they had a servant prepare a chessboard and sat down across from each other.
The game was more an excuse to talk than anything else. It gave them a reason to sit together.
Chen Cuo had spent time with Buddhist scriptures in the temple and writings on Dream Marsh. With the Clarity Pill taken and the Mind Daoist established, his thoughts were clear and his mind keen. His learning might not have grown by leaps and bounds, but some of his insights were far from ordinary.
As they talked, Zhang Ju grew ever more astonished. By the end, he even felt a measure of awe. No wonder several eminent monks had regarded his cousin so highly.
Before long, though, the conversation returned to the Literary Gathering. Zhang Ju could not help complaining. "Those renowned scholars went back on their word. They have no idea that you're not only a brilliant writer but more perceptive than your peers. They'll regret it!"
Chen Cuo smiled. "Perhaps. You look tired too, cousin. Why don't you get some rest?"
Zhang Ju was indeed somewhat weary. Seeing how late it had grown, he took his leave and returned to his room.
Once Zhang Ju was gone, Chen Cuo reached toward the place where he had been sitting and caught a wisp of black-tinged will.
I never drew all the Evil Ghost's thoughts out of my cousin. This was why!
With that thought, he reached in another direction.
Several objects lay in the corner, personal belongings