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The breeze caressed past the hot summer night, whilst the moon hung over the lush treetops.
Xiao Chiye was in tiptop form, so the rush of wine promptly made him hot. At the moment, he was irritable. He stared at Shen Zechuan as the latter made his way down. He said, “So Zhao Zui Temple can still teach one to purify one’s heart of desires and change one’s temper.”
Shen Zechuan dismissed the waiter and said, “I’m the best at grinning and bearing it.”
Xiao Chiye accepted the waiter’s tea to rinse his mouth. Then he wiped his mouth and said, “At least do a decent job if you want to make it up. You probably don’t even know how to spell those last four words.”
“We are all just playing along for fun.” Shen Zechuan wiped his hands and smiled at him. “Yet, you took it seriously.”
Xiao Chiye did not look at him. He simply threw the handkerchief onto the tray and said, “The show is over. Who would believe that? Someone has to play that particular role, no? I, Xiao Ce’an, was just perfect for it. Didn’t you feel good watching it too?”
“That blade is a treasure.” Shen Zechuan’s eyes wandered down.
Xiao Chiye raised his hand to block his view and said, “And the person isn’t?”
One of the lanterns upstairs went out. Shen Zechuan sighed and said “How do you expect me to reply to that? That’s rather inappropriate.”
“You have a good eye.” Xiao Chiye moved his hand away and stared at him ruthlessly and fiercely. “Few people can recognize a good blade.”
“The man himself is precious.” Shen Zechuan went along with his words, “So naturally, everything he wears is quality stuff. Even a blind cat can stumble upon a dead mouse. I was merely guessing.”
“Why is it that when you praise me,” Xiao Chiye said, “I feel as if I’ve seen a ghost?”
“You hardly get praised, huh?” Shen Zechuan comforted him and said, “I haven’t even voiced my most sincere ones yet.”
The surrounding people had all dispersed.
Xiao Chiye said in a lukewarm tone, “You sure can endure.”
“Grand plans are ruined by a lack of forbearance. There’s more of my capability to come.” Shen Zechuan smiled, “Don’t be so anxious.”
“Grand plans.” Xiao Chiye said, “Qudu is only this big. What else is there for you to strive this hard for?”
“I was just saying.” Shen Zechuan paused and looked affectionately at Xiao Chiye. “And you really believed it. Second Young Master, I really couldn’t tell that you are the kind who are naïve and artless.”
“I’m just a frivolous young master who’s just loafing around drinking and dining and waiting to die.” Xiao Chiye said. “How would I know how treacherous the world is? There’s even someone like you to coax me.”
“My bad.” Shen Zechuan moved a step. “I saw how pitiful you were with your talons and fangs sealed off. Slaying with your blade tonight must have been pretty gratifying for you.”
“A little.” Xiao Chiye lifted his leg to block Shen Zechuan’s way and said, “Where are you going? We aren’t done talking yet."
“Sending you back to your residence.” Shen Zechuan said, “You helped me out a tight spot tonight. I’m so grateful I’m shedding tears. There is no way I can ever repay you for this kindness.”
YOU ARE READING
Qiang Jin Jiu (Author : Tang Jiuqing 唐酒卿)
Historical Fiction*Re-edited and intended for offline purpose only* The six prefectures of Zhongbo were surrendered to foreign enemies without resistance, and Shen Zechuan found himself apprehended in the capital, reduced to a state of utter disgrace, despised and co...
