By the time March arrived, Xu Qing had closed himself off to study, his demeanor becoming increasingly reserved with a bright limpid glow in his eyes, seemingly flickering with wisdom.
His skin also became smoother and more supple, yet it retained full elasticity and tenacity, not merely fair but glowing like jade.
A gentleman is as mild as jade.
Studying to understand principles nourishes one like jade.
His sharp edges were now concealed, harboring a resilient strength that was unshakeable.
"These are books that you have read before, but I didn't expect that you would achieve so much by burying yourself in them again," Feng Wu exclaimed in admiration.
Xu Qing smiled: "The works of saints contain profound truths in subtle words, always offering new insights with each reading. Besides, our recent voyage brought us not just material gains but also a refinement of spirit. Look, you've also gained quite a bit."
