Chapter 175: Tea at the Anle Pavilion
“The sky is getting darker; it's just the right time to share some tales of immortals and ghosts, along with some stories from the capital.” A slightly plump storyteller stepped out, flicking his folding fan to cool his slightly sweaty face. “Let’s all enjoy the breeze while you listen.”
Immediately, some familiar patrons below asked, “What will you tell us today, sir?”
“Not long ago, I’m sure everyone has heard about the incident at the Grand Commander's residence. The authorities have also issued a notice explaining what happened,” the storyteller said.
He continued, “Yesterday afternoon, the demon who deceived the Grand Commander with wicked sorcery was captured by the officers. It’s quite lamentable that such a dignified Grand Commander could be so foolish in his old age.”
“What did the demon look like?”
“It wasn’t some three-headed, six-armed creature, nor a hulking beast. It was just a talented eccentric from the jianghu who could wield sorcery. He was short and thin, with a tuft of goat-like beard. I heard that tomorrow morning, he will be paraded through the streets. He’s likely to pass by here as well. If you wish to see him, just grab a stool and sit by the roadside,” the storyteller continued.
He suddenly widened his eyes, his tone shifting to something more sinister, as if trying to create a peculiar atmosphere that drew attention. “Don’t underestimate this person just because he doesn’t look impressive!”
The crowd instantly fell silent, all eyes fixed on him. The storyteller was quite pleased with their reaction, clearly adept at drawing in his audience. He then snorted coldly, “This demon managed to fool the Grand Commander and brazenly cast his spells under the very nose of the emperor, in the capital itself. How could he lack any real skill?”
The audience grew even quieter at this revelation.