Since you crossed into Hexi, I have been watching over you. I have seen you weep like a child one moment and r…
Since you crossed into Hexi, I have been watching over you. I have seen you weep like a child one moment and roar like a lion the next. That outburst of yours caused me no small amount of trouble. You really are something, so deep in your dream that you have taken a foreign land for home.
But the long night is nearly done. You have seen what there was to see, met who there was to meet, and walked every road that needed walking. A fine dream, and yet you cast aside the promise you made me, blind to every clue that lay before you. I will admit, that was aggravating.
No matter. Whatever else may be said, you have reached Qinchuan, the end of this road. The secret is close now, with only one loose thread remaining. Spend less time meddling in other people's affairs and more time watching for what matters: painting tools, manuscripts, the usual sorts of things. However carefully the old man has hidden it, there will be a crack somewhere.
One thing more: if you do happen to come face-to-face with that old man, walk away. The bell and the bowl ring in answer to each other; two waters poured together will mingle. If your souls and dreams should meet, the result will certainly be... hmph.
The cock will not stop crowing, and I have something to attend to. Take care of yourself.
If I do not get what I came for, there will be no reason for you to return.