Chapter 265: Pot-Carrying Hero
# 265. Pot-Carrying Hero
As he copied more and more poems, Xu Qi'an gradually figured out the secret of scholars "manifesting their sacredness." Answering questions directly is something only a fool would do.
You must keep people in suspense, tantalise them.
Just like now, from Number Four to the wine patrons, from the patrons to the courtesans, from the courtesans to the maidservants attending at the banquet, everyone was watching him, eyes filled with anticipation.
Under everyone's gaze, Xu Qi'an rose, pacing slowly in the hall. After seven steps, he stopped and calmly said, "A sword honed ten years long."
Chu Yuanzhen was momentarily stunned. He had just mentioned nurturing his sword, and Xu Qi'an immediately followed up with this line—there was no doubt, this poem was made just for him.
Number Four was moved. He had never met Xu Qi'an before, yet after a few drinks, he was willing to compose a poem for him. His friendliness and sincerity put others to shame.
Number Three was a scholar with a chivalrous heart. Although he had some minor flaws, being somewhat profit-driven, overall, he was someone worth befriending. His cousin, Xu Qi'an, was even more warm-hearted and kind—a true brother.
At the same time, Chu Yuanzhen thought of Ziyang Jushi's example, and his heart began to burn with excitement. He, too, was a scholar who loved poetry. Faced with such a rare opportunity, how could he not feel anticipation?