In the not-so-spacious hall, there were more than ten writing desks arranged. In front of each desk, a young scholar was sitting. Despite so many people squeezed into the room, there was not a hint of noise, only the sound of pens scratching against paper.
Chen Chong was also busy transcribing books. Hailing from Tunliu, he had arrived at the county government after the Lantern Festival. Originally, he had only planned to spend a month transcribing books in the library before returning home. However, once he entered the library, he was captivated by the extensive collection of books there and ended up staying until now. Thankfully, the library provided dormitories specifically for scholars, or else he might not have been able to afford accommodations even at an inn.
Despite this, the money he brought with him was spent rather quickly. Just like now, it wasn’t even noon yet, and his stomach started growling and rumbling non-stop. Fortunately, in the study room, there were many scholars in the same hungry condition. Some were so engrossed in transcribing books that they forgot to eat, so his rumbling stomach didn’t draw much attention.
Nevertheless, even though he was starving, Chen Chong didn’t stop his brush but instead, became more focused. Under his brush, one character after another landed on the slightly yellowed paper, flowing like a gentle stream, bringing a sense of tranquility. This was the twentieth book he was transcribing. Once he finished this one, he could use the five blank scrolls he earned to transcribe the texts he desired.
Unlike others who hurriedly transcribed whatever they could from the rewarded books, Chen Chong carefully remembered each book he had transcribed, selecting the ones worth copying and planning to transcribe them all later. The scrolls provided by the county government were quite thick, and if he wrote smaller characters, he could probably transcribe even more!
With such enthusiasm, hunger seemed to recede into the background. Chen Chong continued to write diligently, not daring to slack off.
After half an hour of writing, a clock outside chimed. As if awakened by this sound, everyone put down their pens and picked up the wooden bowls they carried with them, heading outside.
Chen Chong quickly put away his brush and joined the crowd. It was the time when the library distributed porridge, twice a day, and everyone could receive two bowls of hot soup. Sometimes, it wasn’t just rice porridge; it included egg flower and vegetables, accompanied by dry rations, enough to sustain them for half a day.
For impoverished scholars who came to the library to transcribe books, this was a rare treat. Chen Chong certainly wouldn’t miss this important meal.
He was about ten steps away from the dining hall when a rich aroma wafted over. Chen Chong’s mouth immediately watered; it was the scent of fish soup!
He hadn’t expected to have fish soup today, and the scholars in front of him were also excited. They quickly formed a line, handing their bowls to the servant who guarded the soup pot. This servant was a smooth operator, not showing any arrogance but instead wearing a smiling face. He ladled out the soup generously and occasionally inquired, “Be careful, it’s hot,” or “Is this portion enough?” – he was incredibly considerate.
Finally, it was Chen Chong’s turn. He handed over his wooden bowl, and the servant skillfully filled it up, passing it back with a cheerful, “Be careful, young sir.”
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Chen Chong took the wooden bowl and went to a nearby table. At this moment, several people were already sitting side by side at the table. Today’s fish soup was thick and creamy, with a milky-white color and a few green onions floating on top. Upon closer inspection, there was a hint of ginger spiciness. The fishy smell had been completely masked, leaving only a fragrant aroma. The occasional oil droplets glistened on the surface.
A bowl of such soup in this chilly spring season was simply mouthwatering! Chen Chong took out the dry rations from his pocket, tore them into pieces, and soaked them in the fish soup. The hard biscuits absorbed the broth, immediately becoming soft and delicious. Using a wooden spoon, he scooped up a mouthful and started eating with relish.
They were all young people, and after a morning of hard work transcribing books, who cared about table manners? The sounds of swallowing and drinking soup filled the air around him. Chen Chong, mindful of his manuscripts for the day, ate faster than the others. In no time, he finished one bowl and stood up to get another, hoping to fill his stomach with soup.
At that moment, someone beside him started a conversation, “Can we really attend the Lord’s Peach Blossom Festival banquet?”
“Indeed, I heard that anyone who transcribes books in the library is eligible to attend the feast…”
“Oh my, could it be that the Lord wants to promote us?”
“Maybe they’re planning to open the county’s educational system, so we can enter as well?”
Such casual talk during a meal was quite impolite, but when they heard this, who cared about etiquette? Everyone listened intently to the conversation. Chen Chong slowed down his soup consumption as well. Could it be true that the Lord would let them attend the Peach Blossom Festival banquet? Wasn’t that something only nobles were qualified for? What about scholars like them?
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However, as he finished his bowl of soup, the discussion on the other side didn’t yield any meaningful answers. Chen Chong sighed, washed his wooden bowl, and quickly returned to his desk. Instead of worrying about this, it was better to focus on improving his knowledge. As long as he had a solid education, there would be opportunities in the future!
Little did Chen Chong anticipate that this opportunity would come so quickly.
A few days later, it was the Peach Blossom Festival. Just as those individuals had mentioned, the Lord invited the scholars from the library to the banquet. Despite some mental preparation, Chen Chong was extremely nervous. He put on his best clothes and followed the other scholars from the library to the banks of the Zhang River.
The Zhang River is divided into two branches: the Clear Zhang River and the Muddy Zhang River. The Clear Zhang River originated from the Taihang Mountains, and its water was crystal clear. The Muddy Zhang River had three sources, all from Shangdang, and contained more sediment, making its water appear turbid. Due to its strong current, it was known as the “Lu River” in ancient times before the Qin Dynasty. That’s why the city by the river was named “Lu City.” Such a river, nourishing the land, was undoubtedly the perfect location for the Peach Blossom Festival banquet.
Instead of using luxurious silk curtains or weaving intricate mats, the Prefectural Governor’s residence chose a spot in the midst of green mountains and clear waters, setting up the banquet with a natural and elegant ambiance. Therefore, even if one dressed simply and came from humble origins, the scholars from common families did not feel out of place in this atmosphere. However, when the newly appointed Prefectural Governor appeared before them, Chen Chong couldn’t help but feel inferior.
The Prefectural Governor’s appearance and demeanor were beyond words! Whether in looks or bearing, he was a paragon of excellence, as bright as the moon, as refreshing as a gentle breeze, making people forget about the mundane world when they saw him!
Just as Chen Chong had relaxed his nerves, they tensed up again. He felt sweat forming on his forehead. How would such an eminent scholar evaluate them? Would they engage in poetry, prose, or music? Even if it were just a test of classics and history, it wouldn’t be easy! As a commoner scholar, despite having read many new books in recent days, his foundation was still thin. How could he showcase his talent in front of this Prefectural Governor?
Prefectural Governor Liang Feng didn’t pay much attention to the scholars below him. As the host, he presided over the purification ceremony. Unlike the previous year’s music and divination ceremony by the Jin River, this year’s purification was simple and solemn. The priests offered water in copper basins, used willow branches to cleanse away impurities, and then released chicken eggs downstream to bring blessings to the people.
After completing these rituals, the real spring banquet began.
Without adopting a festive demeanor, Prefectural Governor Liang Feng sat at the head of the gathering and addressed the scholars below, saying, “Today is the Upper Sizhi Festival, a time when we should enjoy the spring scenery by singing and drinking. However, the Xiongnu threat looms large, endangering our Shangdang. Therefore, today we shall evaluate you all and choose talents.”
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His words caused a stir in the audience. Among those present were not only commoner scholars but also many scions1 of noble families. They were accustomed to enjoying the Upper Sizhi Festival with games and leisure, but they had never seen such an occasion turned into an evaluation. How could it not surprise them?
However, while some were surprised, others were pleasantly surprised. Chen Chong clasped his hands on his knees, trembling slightly. What those people said seemed true; this was indeed a talent selection! But with so many people here, would he be chosen?
When Chen Chong heard that the prefect was starting to give out questions, his trembling intensified. It was too difficult! The questions posed by Liang Feng were not about the classics or philosophy but about governance! Asking them, humble scholars, about local governance issues, how could it be easy to respond to? He held a piece of paper and a brush in his hands, but his mind felt blank; he couldn’t think of how to answer. Should he write some grandiose words just to get by? He picked up the brush a few times but then put it down, biting his lip in frustration. Finally, he decided to write about farming.
This was a book he had only recently started studying at the library. Most scholars focused on copying the classics and their commentaries, neglecting other texts. The library encouraged diversity in copying texts to avoid competition for the same resources. Chen Chong had chosen to copy books on geography, agriculture, and other subjects. This served two purposes: it allowed him to avoid the intense competition for the classics and expanded his own knowledge. He believed that, as long as the library remained open, he would eventually have the opportunity to copy the classics and the best commentaries himself. In the meantime, learning as much as possible from other books was valuable.
Now, it seemed like a wise choice. At least, his response wasn’t entirely devoid of content.
He spent nearly half an hour writing his essay. Several people around him had already submitted their answers. Chen Chong reluctantly finished his essay, read it through twice, swallowed hard, and handed the paper to a nearby servant. But after submitting it, he felt a pang of regret. Was his writing too straightforward? It was about farming, after all, and he had used a plain, factual style. There was no literary flourish or artistry. Would such a straightforward answer make him look lowly in front of the prefect?
He felt as though he were sitting in a furnace, burning with self-doubt and regret. He wished he could get up and leave immediately. However, to his surprise, the prefect began reviewing the answers much faster than he had anticipated. In no time, he was already praising some of the scholars and calling them forward. Chen Chong had no choice but to stay put, watching as one scholar after another was praised. It was indeed mostly scholars from prestigious families who received compliments. It made sense; their deep roots and connections in the region meant they were more knowledgeable about current affairs and better equipped to answer such questions. As for scholars from humble backgrounds like himself, unless they had exceptional talents, they rarely had the opportunity to engage with these matters.
With his heart heavy, Chen Chong couldn’t help but feel dejected. However, just as he was about to sink into despair, a clear voice suddenly rang out, “Where is Chen Wenhuan2?”
With a start, Chen Chong sat up straight and said, “It’s, it’s me!”
On the main seat, the noblewoman turned her gaze towards him. Chen Chong finally realized and quickly got up, walking to the front of the stage and kneeling down again, paying his respects, “I am Chen Wenhuan, paying respects to the Prefectural Governor.”
Liang Feng looked him up and down, saying, “You’re the scholar from the library who copies books, right? I remember seeing your name among the ones who copied the most.”
Chen Chong could barely believe it! The Prefectural Governor even paid attention to the number of books copied? He had been focused on collecting blank paper scrolls, copying more than others, but he never expected it would catch the Prefectural Governor’s eye. However, he had just written such a terrible essay. Had he wasted this golden opportunity?
Unexpectedly, Liang Feng smiled and said, “I didn’t expect someone to start with agriculture. How many agricultural books have you copied?”
Chen Chong stammered, “Y-yes, I’ve done that… Agriculture is the foundation of the people’s livelihood, and I wanted to understand it…”
“It’s good to have this intention,” Liang Feng nodded. “While talents suitable for the court may be those with refined virtue, elegant style, and literary talent, there also needs to be people grounded in reality who work for the welfare of the people. Your strategy may not be entirely new, but it has its merits. Come to the county government tomorrow and await further orders.”
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With these words, a buzzing murmur spread through the audience. Who would have thought that a scholar from humble origins would catch the Prefectural Governor’s attention with his knowledge of agriculture? In the current times, those selected were often chosen for their moral character, refined appearance, and literary talents. How could someone like this be considered a suitable candidate?
However, who in the audience would dare to refute what the Prefectural Governor said? Chen Chong’s head felt heavy, and he trembled as he knelt down. Had he been selected? Was he valued by the Prefectural Governor and about to enter the county office? Even if it was just as a minor official, it was much faster than he had expected!
A surge of warmth welled up, entering his eyes. Chen Chong clenched his teeth and controlled himself, trying not to shed tears right there. He had been born into poverty, his background was unremarkable, and he didn’t possess the kind of renowned talent that others did. Yet, the Prefectural Governor had singled him out because of his diligence and dedication. This was the kind of official he had always dreamed of serving, even to the point of giving his life!
He couldn’t afford to disappoint this recognition!
Prostrating deeply on the ground, Chen Chong held back his tears and once again paid his respects to the person on the stage.
1heirs
2文 (wén): means “literature,” “culture,” or “language”; 焕 (huàn): means “shining,” “bright,” or “radiant”. Combined together, it would mean “Radiant Culture” or “Bright Scholar”. In this context, it should mean the latter.
In the not-so-spacious hall, there were more than ten writing desks arranged. In front of each desk, a young scholar was sitting. Despite so many people squeezed into the room, there was not a hint of noise, only the sound of pens scratching against paper.
Chen Chong was also busy transcribing books. Hailing from Tunliu, he had arrived at the county government after the Lantern Festival. Originally, he had only planned to spend a month transcribing books in the library before returning home. However, once he entered the library, he was captivated by the extensive collection of books there and ended up staying until now. Thankfully, the library provided dormitories specifically for scholars, or else he might not have been able to afford accommodations even at an inn.
Despite this, the money he brought with him was spent rather quickly. Just like now, it wasn’t even noon yet, and his stomach started growling and rumbling non-stop. Fortunately, in the study room, there were many scholars in the same hungry condition. Some were so engrossed in transcribing books that they forgot to eat, so his rumbling stomach didn’t draw much attention.
Nevertheless, even though he was starving, Chen Chong didn’t stop his brush but instead, became more focused. Under his brush, one character after another landed on the slightly yellowed paper, flowing like a gentle stream, bringing a sense of tranquility. This was the twentieth book he was transcribing. Once he finished this one, he could use the five blank scrolls he earned to transcribe the texts he desired.
Unlike others who hurriedly transcribed whatever they could from the rewarded books, Chen Chong carefully remembered each book he had transcribed, selecting the ones worth copying and planning to transcribe them all later. The scrolls provided by the county government were quite thick, and if he wrote smaller characters, he could probably transcribe even more!
With such enthusiasm, hunger seemed to recede into the background. Chen Chong continued to write diligently, not daring to slack off.
After half an hour of writing, a clock outside chimed. As if awakened by this sound, everyone put down their pens and picked up the wooden bowls they carried with them, heading outside.
Chen Chong quickly put away his brush and joined the crowd. It was the time when the library distributed porridge, twice a day, and everyone could receive two bowls of hot soup. Sometimes, it wasn’t just rice porridge; it included egg flower and vegetables, accompanied by dry rations, enough to sustain them for half a day.
For impoverished scholars who came to the library to transcribe books, this was a rare treat. Chen Chong certainly wouldn’t miss this important meal.
He was about ten steps away from the dining hall when a rich aroma wafted over. Chen Chong’s mouth immediately watered; it was the scent of fish soup!
He hadn’t expected to have fish soup today, and the scholars in front of him were also excited. They quickly formed a line, handing their bowls to the servant who guarded the soup pot. This servant was a smooth operator, not showing any arrogance but instead wearing a smiling face. He ladled out the soup generously and occasionally inquired, “Be careful, it’s hot,” or “Is this portion enough?” – he was incredibly considerate.
Finally, it was Chen Chong’s turn. He handed over his wooden bowl, and the servant skillfully filled it up, passing it back with a cheerful, “Be careful, young sir.”
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Chen Chong took the wooden bowl and went to a nearby table. At this moment, several people were already sitting side by side at the table. Today’s fish soup was thick and creamy, with a milky-white color and a few green onions floating on top. Upon closer inspection, there was a hint of ginger spiciness. The fishy smell had been completely masked, leaving only a fragrant aroma. The occasional oil droplets glistened on the surface.
A bowl of such soup in this chilly spring season was simply mouthwatering! Chen Chong took out the dry rations from his pocket, tore them into pieces, and soaked them in the fish soup. The hard biscuits absorbed the broth, immediately becoming soft and delicious. Using a wooden spoon, he scooped up a mouthful and started eating with relish.
They were all young people, and after a morning of hard work transcribing books, who cared about table manners? The sounds of swallowing and drinking soup filled the air around him. Chen Chong, mindful of his manuscripts for the day, ate faster than the others. In no time, he finished one bowl and stood up to get another, hoping to fill his stomach with soup.
At that moment, someone beside him started a conversation, “Can we really attend the Lord’s Peach Blossom Festival banquet?”
“Indeed, I heard that anyone who transcribes books in the library is eligible to attend the feast…”
“Oh my, could it be that the Lord wants to promote us?”
“Maybe they’re planning to open the county’s educational system, so we can enter as well?”
Such casual talk during a meal was quite impolite, but when they heard this, who cared about etiquette? Everyone listened intently to the conversation. Chen Chong slowed down his soup consumption as well. Could it be true that the Lord would let them attend the Peach Blossom Festival banquet? Wasn’t that something only nobles were qualified for? What about scholars like them?
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However, as he finished his bowl of soup, the discussion on the other side didn’t yield any meaningful answers. Chen Chong sighed, washed his wooden bowl, and quickly returned to his desk. Instead of worrying about this, it was better to focus on improving his knowledge. As long as he had a solid education, there would be opportunities in the future!
Little did Chen Chong anticipate that this opportunity would come so quickly.
A few days later, it was the Peach Blossom Festival. Just as those individuals had mentioned, the Lord invited the scholars from the library to the banquet. Despite some mental preparation, Chen Chong was extremely nervous. He put on his best clothes and followed the other scholars from the library to the banks of the Zhang River.
The Zhang River is divided into two branches: the Clear Zhang River and the Muddy Zhang River. The Clear Zhang River originated from the Taihang Mountains, and its water was crystal clear. The Muddy Zhang River had three sources, all from Shangdang, and contained more sediment, making its water appear turbid. Due to its strong current, it was known as the “Lu River” in ancient times before the Qin Dynasty. That’s why the city by the river was named “Lu City.” Such a river, nourishing the land, was undoubtedly the perfect location for the Peach Blossom Festival banquet.
Instead of using luxurious silk curtains or weaving intricate mats, the Prefectural Governor’s residence chose a spot in the midst of green mountains and clear waters, setting up the banquet with a natural and elegant ambiance. Therefore, even if one dressed simply and came from humble origins, the scholars from common families did not feel out of place in this atmosphere. However, when the newly appointed Prefectural Governor appeared before them, Chen Chong couldn’t help but feel inferior.
The Prefectural Governor’s appearance and demeanor were beyond words! Whether in looks or bearing, he was a paragon of excellence, as bright as the moon, as refreshing as a gentle breeze, making people forget about the mundane world when they saw him!
Just as Chen Chong had relaxed his nerves, they tensed up again. He felt sweat forming on his forehead. How would such an eminent scholar evaluate them? Would they engage in poetry, prose, or music? Even if it were just a test of classics and history, it wouldn’t be easy! As a commoner scholar, despite having read many new books in recent days, his foundation was still thin. How could he showcase his talent in front of this Prefectural Governor?
Prefectural Governor Liang Feng didn’t pay much attention to the scholars below him. As the host, he presided over the purification ceremony. Unlike the previous year’s music and divination ceremony by the Jin River, this year’s purification was simple and solemn. The priests offered water in copper basins, used willow branches to cleanse away impurities, and then released chicken eggs downstream to bring blessings to the people.
After completing these rituals, the real spring banquet began.
Without adopting a festive demeanor, Prefectural Governor Liang Feng sat at the head of the gathering and addressed the scholars below, saying, “Today is the Upper Sizhi Festival, a time when we should enjoy the spring scenery by singing and drinking. However, the Xiongnu threat looms large, endangering our Shangdang. Therefore, today we shall evaluate you all and choose talents.”
Advertisement
AD
His words caused a stir in the audience. Among those present were not only commoner scholars but also many scions1 of noble families. They were accustomed to enjoying the Upper Sizhi Festival with games and leisure, but they had never seen such an occasion turned into an evaluation. How could it not surprise them?
However, while some were surprised, others were pleasantly surprised. Chen Chong clasped his hands on his knees, trembling slightly. What those people said seemed true; this was indeed a talent selection! But with so many people here, would he be chosen?
When Chen Chong heard that the prefect was starting to give out questions, his trembling intensified. It was too difficult! The questions posed by Liang Feng were not about the classics or philosophy but about governance! Asking them, humble scholars, about local governance issues, how could it be easy to respond to? He held a piece of paper and a brush in his hands, but his mind felt blank; he couldn’t think of how to answer. Should he write some grandiose words just to get by? He picked up the brush a few times but then put it down, biting his lip in frustration. Finally, he decided to write about farming.
This was a book he had only recently started studying at the library. Most scholars focused on copying the classics and their commentaries, neglecting other texts. The library encouraged diversity in copying texts to avoid competition for the same resources. Chen Chong had chosen to copy books on geography, agriculture, and other subjects. This served two purposes: it allowed him to avoid the intense competition for the classics and expanded his own knowledge. He believed that, as long as the library remained open, he would eventually have the opportunity to copy the classics and the best commentaries himself. In the meantime, learning as much as possible from other books was valuable.
Now, it seemed like a wise choice. At least, his response wasn’t entirely devoid of content.
He spent nearly half an hour writing his essay. Several people around him had already submitted their answers. Chen Chong reluctantly finished his essay, read it through twice, swallowed hard, and handed the paper to a nearby servant. But after submitting it, he felt a pang of regret. Was his writing too straightforward? It was about farming, after all, and he had used a plain, factual style. There was no literary flourish or artistry. Would such a straightforward answer make him look lowly in front of the prefect?
He felt as though he were sitting in a furnace, burning with self-doubt and regret. He wished he could get up and leave immediately. However, to his surprise, the prefect began reviewing the answers much faster than he had anticipated. In no time, he was already praising some of the scholars and calling them forward. Chen Chong had no choice but to stay put, watching as one scholar after another was praised. It was indeed mostly scholars from prestigious families who received compliments. It made sense; their deep roots and connections in the region meant they were more knowledgeable about current affairs and better equipped to answer such questions. As for scholars from humble backgrounds like himself, unless they had exceptional talents, they rarely had the opportunity to engage with these matters.
With his heart heavy, Chen Chong couldn’t help but feel dejected. However, just as he was about to sink into despair, a clear voice suddenly rang out, “Where is Chen Wenhuan2?”
With a start, Chen Chong sat up straight and said, “It’s, it’s me!”
On the main seat, the noblewoman turned her gaze towards him. Chen Chong finally realized and quickly got up, walking to the front of the stage and kneeling down again, paying his respects, “I am Chen Wenhuan, paying respects to the Prefectural Governor.”
Liang Feng looked him up and down, saying, “You’re the scholar from the library who copies books, right? I remember seeing your name among the ones who copied the most.”
Chen Chong could barely believe it! The Prefectural Governor even paid attention to the number of books copied? He had been focused on collecting blank paper scrolls, copying more than others, but he never expected it would catch the Prefectural Governor’s eye. However, he had just written such a terrible essay. Had he wasted this golden opportunity?
Unexpectedly, Liang Feng smiled and said, “I didn’t expect someone to start with agriculture. How many agricultural books have you copied?”
Chen Chong stammered, “Y-yes, I’ve done that… Agriculture is the foundation of the people’s livelihood, and I wanted to understand it…”
“It’s good to have this intention,” Liang Feng nodded. “While talents suitable for the court may be those with refined virtue, elegant style, and literary talent, there also needs to be people grounded in reality who work for the welfare of the people. Your strategy may not be entirely new, but it has its merits. Come to the county government tomorrow and await further orders.”
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AD
With these words, a buzzing murmur spread through the audience. Who would have thought that a scholar from humble origins would catch the Prefectural Governor’s attention with his knowledge of agriculture? In the current times, those selected were often chosen for their moral character, refined appearance, and literary talents. How could someone like this be considered a suitable candidate?
However, who in the audience would dare to refute what the Prefectural Governor said? Chen Chong’s head felt heavy, and he trembled as he knelt down. Had he been selected? Was he valued by the Prefectural Governor and about to enter the county office? Even if it was just as a minor official, it was much faster than he had expected!
A surge of warmth welled up, entering his eyes. Chen Chong clenched his teeth and controlled himself, trying not to shed tears right there. He had been born into poverty, his background was unremarkable, and he didn’t possess the kind of renowned talent that others did. Yet, the Prefectural Governor had singled him out because of his diligence and dedication. This was the kind of official he had always dreamed of serving, even to the point of giving his life!
He couldn’t afford to disappoint this recognition!
Prostrating deeply on the ground, Chen Chong held back his tears and once again paid his respects to the person on the stage.
1heirs
2文 (wén): means “literature,” “culture,” or “language”; 焕 (huàn): means “shining,” “bright,” or “radiant”. Combined together, it would mean “Radiant Culture” or “Bright Scholar”. In this context, it should mean the latter.
