Rarely did Mr. Chen find such a quiet moment. But unexpectedly, trouble arrived. The gate of the Taoist Temple was knocked open from outside. Four drenched figures barged into the temple. Their faces were frantic, soaked from the heavy rain, making them look especially disheveled. Tong Zhihuan, who was writing in the Main Hall, frowned. He looked up toward the commotion. Miss Tao’er looked annoyed. She glanced at Tong Zhihuan, who was equally upset. Mr. Chen finally managed to get some sleep, and now these people… “You should rest a bit more, sir,” Tong Zhihuan said. “I’ll deal with these troublemakers.” He stood up and walked toward the four. Chen Changsheng took a slow breath. He turned to Tao’er and asked, “How long did I sleep?” “You only slept for 45 minutes, sir.” Tao’er’s tone showed displeasure, as if defending her master. Chen Changsheng smiled gently. “It’s alright. 45 minutes is enough. Whether I sleep or not doesn’t really matter.” Tao’er seemed ready to argue, but Chen Changsheng waved his hand, stopping her. The four dripping figures moved further into the temple. Tong Zhihuan stepped forward. “Gentlemen, barging in isn’t proper, is it?” Tang Mingjing sensed hostility in his voice. He realized they’d disturbed the temple’s occupants. He turned and saw a man sitting on a chair, a blanket over his legs, looking like he’d just woken up. Tang Mingjing opened his mouth to apologize. But one of his companions, Dong Shiyuan, stepped in angrily. “Why so rude? That rain forced us in! Besides, isn’t this a public temple? Must we beg permission?” “Shiyuan!” Tang Mingjing warned sharply. Dong Shiyuan huffed. “Come on, Mingjing! Am I wrong?” Tong Zhihuan didn’t look angry. Instead, he said coolly, “You four dress fine but act without manners.” He glared at Dong Shiyuan. “You know this is a temple? If so, why storm inside? Afraid you might anger the Immortals? Where are your manners?” Dong Shiyuan started to retort, but Tang Mingjing stopped him. Tang Mingjing bowed politely. “My apologies. We rushed here in panic. We shouldn’t disturb this sacred place. But with such heavy rain, we’ve nowhere else to go. Might we stay awhile? We’ll leave once it lightens.” Hearing his regret, Tong Zhihuan felt his anger fade a little. Still, he replied, “At least you’ve got manners.” Then Mr. Chen’s voice came from behind. Chen Changsheng called out, “If they need shelter, shelter them.” Tong Zhihuan obeyed his master. Yet he still wanted to make them sweat. “My sir is kind enough to let you off, but I’m not so generous,” Tong Zhihuan declared. “He was finally getting some rest until you showed up.” He nodded at Tang Mingjing. “You seem decent. Stay inside. The other three—“ he pointed outside “—the wall near the gate has a three-foot dry spot under its eaves. Perfect for you.” Tang Mingjing flushed. “But sir…” Dong Shiyuan waved dismissively. “Fine! If we’re unwanted, we’re leaving! Who needs this foul place? A gentleman never lives under another’s roof!” He scoffed and marched outside. The other two exchanged looks, then followed. Tang Mingjing shook his head helplessly. Fresh chapters posted on 𝓷𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓵✦𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕖✦𝙣𝙚𝙩 Once the three left, Tong Zhihuan appeared more satisfied. He told Tang Mingjing, “Come. Sit.” Tang Mingjing forced a smile. “Many thanks.” Tong Zhihuan returned to the Main Hall. Chen Changsheng regarded him with a reluctant smile. “Why torment those three?” Tong Zhihuan crossed his arms. “You didn’t punish them for rudely interrupting your rest. They strut around like they own the place just because they read books. The public respects scholars, but I refuse to spoil brats!” His voice turned fierce. “Three years of reading, they think they’re gods? You said let them shelter, sir. They got it—just outside. If you find me wrong, punish me.” He thumped his chest. “I just hate seeing you mistreated!” Chen Changsheng chuckled but didn’t scold him. “Always scheming, you.” Nearby, Tao’er beamed at Tong Zhihuan. She thought he was right. She disliked reckless people who never apologized. Tang Mingjing stepped forward, bowed again, and said, “This humble scholar Tang Mingjing of Yan County greets you, sir. Our intrusion disturbed your rest. My sincerest apologies.” Chen Changsheng studied Tang Mingjing. Tang Mingjing felt uneasy under that piercing gaze. Chen Changsheng asked, “You didn’t just pass by seeking shelter? The mountain trail isn’t easy.” Tang Mingjing admitted, “True, sir. We came specifically for the Flowing Cloud Temple.” Tang Mingjing startled. “How did you know…?” Instead of explaining, Chen Changsheng inquired, “How is Chang Shan lately?” Tang Mingjing snapped to attention. “Earlier, we made a bet with him… and lost. So we had to tend the temple. During last autumn’s imperial exam, Chang Shan took first place! He’s currently traveling to Shangjing.” Chen Changsheng nodded slowly. “Impressive…” Tong Zhihuan perked up. “Sir, is he talking about the Daoist Priest’s student Chang Shan?” Chen Changsheng glanced at him. “You’ve met him?” Tong Zhihuan nodded. “Years ago, when I visited with my dad to offer incense. Saw him a few times.” Tang Mingjing gaped. “Scholar Chang Shan… was a cultivator?” Chen Changsheng shook his head. “He ceased being one three years ago when he left the mountain.” Tang Mingjing licked his lips. “Then…” 😏😏😏Golden Novel translates the best Chinese web novels for you!😏😏😏 “When did he even start studying?” “On the mountain, he only read the Taoist Scriptures.” Tang Mingjing’s eyes nearly popped out. Impossible! Studied for just three years? And became the top scholar?