Zhou Shuren stood up, "Come over every evening for an hour after dinner."
Shi Qing said excitedly, "Student pays respect to Master."
Zhou Shuren took hold of Shi Qing, not allowing him to bow in salute, "I will only teach you for two years. How much you learn in that time is up to you. Go back now."
Shi Qing was stunned, "Master, why?"
Zhou Shuren said softly, "I am merely your teacher. Call me 'Teacher' in the future."
Frankly speaking, the Emperor only hoped that he would instruct Shi Qing, not truly take him as a disciple.
Shi Qing reacted quickly. Indeed, the Emperor had mentioned becoming a disciple, but he never specified how. Shi Qing looked at Lord Zhou, steadied his heart, and gained confidence in his future, knowing how rare it was to have such a teacher in the capital and that Lord Zhou could discern the Emperor's intentions.
Zhou Shuren did not keep Shi Qing for dinner but had Steward Ding escort him out.
