Ninghai Zen casually asked, seemingly indifferent, after handing over the complete book of Dragon Palm:
"By the way, do you think my appearance just now had the air of a high master?"
Bai Qi sighed in his heart; this instructor was truly fixated on the notion of 'style', always striving to be extraordinary in everything.
"In the depths of winter, the master rests within the Book Tower, breathing the wind and swallowing the snow, akin to a deity; naturally, his demeanor is exceptional.
If, when the disciple ascends the tower, he recites a line, 'Who first awakens from the great dream, in life I know myself,' it would further enhance a sense of tranquility and wisdom."
Excessive flattery is unwise; mixed with a few sincere suggestions, demonstrating one's own value, could more effectively win favor.
"The line 'Who first awakens from the great dream, in life I know myself... that's a good one; hold on, let me jot it down."
