“Zu Shizhi is residing with his mourning mother?” Upon hearing this, Liang Feng knew trouble was coming.
In this era, “filial piety” was an unshakable banner that no one could challenge. Once it was displayed, everything else had to take a back seat. Since Zu Ti had presented the reason of mourning to decline the recruitment, seeking an appointment would be difficult.
Zhang Bin nodded, “I heard he also declined the offer from Prince Donghai earlier. It seems challenging to convince him to take up official duties.”
In truth, Zhang Bin didn’t quite understand why the lord was recruiting someone like him as Chief Secretary. Zu Ti, hailing from the Zu family in Fanyang, had previously served as a subordinate to Prince Qi, Sima Jiong, Prince Changsha, Sima Yi, and Prince Yuzhang, Sima Chi. However, after Emperor Hui moved the capital to Chang’an and established the dual bureaucracy, Zu Ti retired from his official duties. Looking at his resume, it wasn’t particularly remarkable, and there were no famous literary or military achievements attributed to him. Moreover, as a member of the prominent Zu family in You County, if war broke out between You County and Bing County, his position would be even more uncertain.
Compared to this person, Chi Jian, who lives in seclusion in his hometown, is more renowned. He has been ordered to invite him, and if he can persuade Chi Jian to take on the role of Zhongshi Assistant, it would greatly enhance the lord’s prestige.
“With the imminent war between You County and Bing County, Zu is understandably hesitant. However, it won’t be too late to recruit him after he finishes guarding his residence.” After contemplating for a moment, Liang Feng ultimately couldn’t give up.
He knew Zhang Bin’s doubts, but as one of the few notable figures in the Jin Dynasty whose name he could remember, talents like Zu Ti shouldn’t be missed. Another participant in the “Hearing the Rooster and Dancing” event, Liu Kun, had already flourished under Sima Yue’s command, holding the official position of Governor of Yu County and General Who Pacifies Wei. Liang Feng couldn’t believe that someone like Zu Ti, with his caliber, had no desire for victory!
Seeing that the lord was still reluctant, Zhang Bin couldn’t help but smile, “Zu Shizhi has not arrived, but another member of the Zu family has entered Chongwen Hall. If we can get him to persuade his brother, the matter will be simplified.”
Liang Feng suddenly became interested, “The Zu family has another person? What’s this child’s name?”
“His name is Taizhi, with the characters ‘Tai’ and ‘Zhi.’ He is Zu Shizhi’s younger brother…”
Zu Taizhi? Liang Feng’s brows slightly furrowed. Why did this name sound so familiar? Right, wasn’t that great mathematician who calculated the value of pi named Zu Chongzhi? If he remembered correctly, Zu Chongzhi seemed to be from the Nan and Bei Dynasties period.
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Liang Feng had been in this era for quite some time and was familiar with contemporary customs. During the reign of Wang Mang, who restored ancient traditions, it was stated, “Two names are not proper.” This meant that names could only consist of a single word, like Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Sun Quan, and others. From the Eastern Han to the Wei and Jin dynasties, the aristocracy upheld the use of single names.
However, with the rise of Daoism and the flourishing of Huang-Lao, the teachings of the Celestial Master began to gain popularity among the aristocracy. Followers of the Celestial Master would add characters like “Zhi,” “Dao,” “Ling,” “Xuan,” and others to their names, creating “Dao names.” Similar to later figures like Wang Xizhi and his son Wang Xianzhi, who both had the character “Zhi” in their names, not only was there no taboo against it, but it could also be passed down through generations.
Now, this Zu Taizhi is popping up, not too far removed from the era of Zu Chongzhi, sharing the surname “Zu” and using the Dao name “Zhi.” Claiming there’s no connection seems highly unlikely! Could it be that this person is a descendant of that great mathematician?!
Liang Feng suddenly became interested and asked eagerly, “This young Zu, which academy did he enter into within Chongwen Hall?”
“It should be the Qiuzhi Academy.” Zhang Bin didn’t expect the lord to be so enthusiastic, but he truthfully answered.
The Academy of Seeking Knowledge! Liang Feng’s joy surged even more. The saying goes that family knowledge is deep, and scholarly families often pass down their expertise. If this Zu Taizhi entered the Academy of Seeking Knowledge, it was very likely to be a continuation of the family tradition! This was no less than a great thing comparable to Zu Ti joining the camp!
“Fetch his academic records; I want to take a look.”
※
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After moving to Jinyang, Chongwen Hall, originally a simple academy, was divided into three academies: “Hongwen,” “Qiuxian,” and “Qiuzhi.” Hongwen Academy was responsible for education, Qiuxian Academy accommodated scholars of Confucian classics and provided talents for the Governor’s Office. Qiuzhi Academy was a brand-new academy that focused not on classics but on miscellaneous subjects like mathematics, divination, geography, craftsmanship, and natural history. Although there were avenues for advancement, including stipends and official positions, choosing Qiuzhi Academy was ultimately the minority’s choice.
Zu Taizhi chose this academy!
This was different from his original plan, as he had boasted to his elder brother about serving in Bing County. Among the three academies of Chongwen Hall, Qiuxian Academy was the most esteemed by scholars. Besides the rich collection of books, just engaging in discussions with academicians on Confucian classics could provide significant benefits. Moreover, this place was also where officials were selected in Bing County, much more dignified than the Imperial Examination, and it could achieve a widespread reputation.
Naturally, this place attracted everyone’s attention. However, the admission requirements were exceptionally strict. Besides being recommended by academicians, one could only submit their academic records, and undergo three tests and five reviews before being selected.
The Qiuzhi Academy was different. Since it focused on miscellaneous studies, it was even quieter than Hongwen Academy. Admission was based on the quality of the written papers, but the criteria for “good” were different here. It wasn’t about literary elegance, poetry, or classical phrases; rather, it emphasized the words “new” and “clever.” Only ideas that were innovative and unique could meet the admission standards. However, lacking a written paper was not a hindrance. Each subject in the academy had its own assessment standards, and if one gained the recognition of an academician in their chosen field, they could become a member, albeit with a lower status, starting from a student.
In a place that seemed to offer no promising future or dignity, Zu Taizhi couldn’t resist the temptation. Since childhood, he has immersed himself in mathematics, especially books on methods and calculations. He even had a hobby of writing strange and supernatural tales. When at home, studying classics was a necessity, and these less prestigious interests had to remain hidden. But in Jinyang, far from home and without elders around, encountering such a magical academy, how could Zu Taizhi not be intrigued?
Moreover, it was possible to transfer between the three academies. After completing a year and passing evaluations, one could switch to another academy. If staying in the Qiuzhi Academy proved untenable, changing places was an option.
With such thoughts in mind, Zu Taizhi submitted his written paper, focusing on topics like circle-cutting techniques and the application of water mills. Many ideas in his paper were inspired by his insights after reading the commentary on the “Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art.” As expected, he was admitted to the academy.
Within the Qiuzhi Academy, one could study in the library or delve into a specific subject. If something one specialized in gained recognition from the Governor’s Office, a substantial stipend could be obtained. Currently, the subjects with the greatest emphasis are mathematics and geography, with a strong trend in divination. Craftsmanship and natural history were less popular.
Zu Taizhi didn’t immediately choose a subject but spent more than ten days in the library reading various books. The local gazetteers here were even more numerous than those in the Zu family’s collection, making him itch to explore the world outside! However, his interest was more in local products and unusual stories than actual geography. So, he didn’t immediately commit to a popular subject.
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While perusing books in the library, Zu Taizhi did, however, make the acquaintance of a fellow enthusiast.
Early in the morning, after finishing breakfast in the dining hall, Zu Taizhi, armed with the notes he transcribed the day before, headed towards the library.
This library was just recently constructed, much more spacious than the main hall of the Governor’s Office. Rows of bookshelves filled with categorized books lined the interior, evoking a sense of emotion. Above the library hung a wooden plaque with four characters written on silver hooks and iron paintings: “The pursuit of knowledge values skepticism”.
This plaque was personally inscribed by Governor Liang, and the four characters had a somewhat rebellious meaning. However, who in Qiuzhi Academy wasn’t someone deviating from the norm in pursuit of miscellaneous studies? Seeing these characters, it stirred a sense of aspiration within people. Zu Taizhi couldn’t help but straighten his chest and step into the library.
The library had many rules, one of which was no talking allowed. Zu Taizhi went to a bookshelf, picked up the book he had identified yesterday, didn’t dare to be distracted by other books, and hastily headed towards the backyard. The subsequent reading room allowed people to transcribe and peruse books, providing writing materials, but again, no talking was permitted. However, the backyard had two or three small courtyards where this rule didn’t apply. These were specifically for the use of academicians with approved projects, making it convenient for them to access reference materials.
Zu Taizhi’s destination was one of these rooms. Treading lightly, he reached the door, entered without knocking, and found a seat. At the moment, a man was writing furiously at a writing desk, utterly unaware of Zu Taizhi’s entrance. Not wanting to disturb him, Zu Taizhi chose a spot without stacked books, carefully picked up the neatly written manuscript on the desk, and began to read it with fascination.
One person wrote, and the other read; this went on for most of an hour. Finally, the writer put down the brush, rubbed his wrist, and lifted his head, only then noticing the presence of a guest.
“Fuchen, you’re here again? Still haven’t decided on your chosen subject? How about studying orthography with me?” The man had a clear and scholarly face, exuding an air of the popular image of a cultivated and refined individual. Speaking frankly, he continued.
Putting down the manuscript in his hands, Zu Taizhi sighed, “Brother Jingchun, your accomplishments are profound, something I can’t compare to. The more I read these annotations, the more I feel inadequate…”
The person in front of him, named Guo Pu, was from Wenyi in Hedong. He had a penchant for the arts of yin-yang calculations, five elements, and divination. Anticipating the peril of Hedong when Liu Yuan occupied Pingyang, he didn’t join other scholars in fleeing south but headed north to Shangdang. Later, he entered the academy and became a member of the Qiuzhi Academy, focusing not on divination but on orthography. The annotated book he was working on was the “Erya.”
Everyone knows that the “Erya” is a classic and the progenitor of orthography. The recorded content consists of ancient correct words, to put it more straightforwardly, it’s a dictionary that specifies official standardized language from ancient times. Studying the “Erya” is, in essence, interpreting the six arts, which are the fundamentals of the “Shi,” “Shu,” “Li,” “Le,” “Yi,” and “Chunqiu,” enabling people today to better read these ancient books and understand their meanings.
By all accounts, a book like this should be studied in Qiuxian Academy. However, Guo Pu himself preferred the Qiuzhi Academy. Moreover, he demonstrated creativity in his annotations, adding illustrations similar to the commentary version of the “Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art.” Once this idea was proposed, it received approval, and Guo Pu immersed himself in annotating books in the academy without any worries.
In recent months, his in-depth study has been focused on a volume of “Shi Chong”. It’s precisely the detailed annotated illustrations that left Zu Taizhi marveling. Who would have thought that the term “虫蚃” refers to “pupal insects”? With this explanation, one can easily visualize the larvae born within the pupa. The book also often includes annotations like “今言”1 and “俗言”2, concise and clear at a glance.
However, such extensive knowledge is not within Zu Taizhi’s possession. Even at Qiuzhi Academy, there are very few academicians in the field of natural history.
Seeing that Zu Taizhi remained unmoved, Guo Pu was not annoyed. He smiled faintly, “Orthography is ultimately dull; only someone like me, a worm, can barely manage it. Fuchen, you are young and unrestrained; you should choose a field where you can achieve something.”
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Guo Pu loved divination and was quite accurate in reading people. His words made Zu Taizhi blush. Indeed, entering Qiuzhi Academy was his personal desire, but as a member of the Zu family, establishing achievements and contributions was the ultimate mission.
Letting out a light sigh, Zu Taizhi said, “Brother Jingchun’s words are not wrong. It’s just that after entering Qiuzhi Academy, I’ve been disturbed by the myriad of scenes, losing my focus instead.”
He couldn’t help but wonder if he should rein in his preferences and choose a subject that could be highly valued by Governor Liang.
Guo Pu didn’t mind, saying nonchalantly, “Shall I cast a divination for you?”
“This…” Zu Taizhi awkwardly waved his hand. “Let me choose on my own.”
He had witnessed Guo Pu’s accurate divinations before, and the idea of destiny troubled him. If he divined something undesirable, wouldn’t he be seeking trouble for himself?
“I observe that Brother Xiantu’s aura and appearance will encounter changes soon. As long as your heart is at ease, you will naturally gain something.” Guo Pu combed his goatee, giving advice.
This statement both surprised and pleased Zu Taizhi, but he also harbored some doubts. Could it be that the other was just comforting him? After all, his elder brother had already declined the position of Chief Secretary in the General’s Office. He couldn’t help but think of sending more letters to inform his elder brother of the peculiar situation in Bing County.
Little did he know that before he could finish writing his family letters, someone came to invite him to a meeting at the governor’s residence. The one extending the invitation happened to be the governor of Bing County at present.
“Zu Shizhi is residing with his mourning mother?” Upon hearing this, Liang Feng knew trouble was coming.
In this era, “filial piety” was an unshakable banner that no one could challenge. Once it was displayed, everything else had to take a back seat. Since Zu Ti had presented the reason of mourning to decline the recruitment, seeking an appointment would be difficult.
Zhang Bin nodded, “I heard he also declined the offer from Prince Donghai earlier. It seems challenging to convince him to take up official duties.”
In truth, Zhang Bin didn’t quite understand why the lord was recruiting someone like him as Chief Secretary. Zu Ti, hailing from the Zu family in Fanyang, had previously served as a subordinate to Prince Qi, Sima Jiong, Prince Changsha, Sima Yi, and Prince Yuzhang, Sima Chi. However, after Emperor Hui moved the capital to Chang’an and established the dual bureaucracy, Zu Ti retired from his official duties. Looking at his resume, it wasn’t particularly remarkable, and there were no famous literary or military achievements attributed to him. Moreover, as a member of the prominent Zu family in You County, if war broke out between You County and Bing County, his position would be even more uncertain.
Compared to this person, Chi Jian, who lives in seclusion in his hometown, is more renowned. He has been ordered to invite him, and if he can persuade Chi Jian to take on the role of Zhongshi Assistant, it would greatly enhance the lord’s prestige.
“With the imminent war between You County and Bing County, Zu is understandably hesitant. However, it won’t be too late to recruit him after he finishes guarding his residence.” After contemplating for a moment, Liang Feng ultimately couldn’t give up.
He knew Zhang Bin’s doubts, but as one of the few notable figures in the Jin Dynasty whose name he could remember, talents like Zu Ti shouldn’t be missed. Another participant in the “Hearing the Rooster and Dancing” event, Liu Kun, had already flourished under Sima Yue’s command, holding the official position of Governor of Yu County and General Who Pacifies Wei. Liang Feng couldn’t believe that someone like Zu Ti, with his caliber, had no desire for victory!
Seeing that the lord was still reluctant, Zhang Bin couldn’t help but smile, “Zu Shizhi has not arrived, but another member of the Zu family has entered Chongwen Hall. If we can get him to persuade his brother, the matter will be simplified.”
Liang Feng suddenly became interested, “The Zu family has another person? What’s this child’s name?”
“His name is Taizhi, with the characters ‘Tai’ and ‘Zhi.’ He is Zu Shizhi’s younger brother…”
Zu Taizhi? Liang Feng’s brows slightly furrowed. Why did this name sound so familiar? Right, wasn’t that great mathematician who calculated the value of pi named Zu Chongzhi? If he remembered correctly, Zu Chongzhi seemed to be from the Nan and Bei Dynasties period.
Advertisement
Liang Feng had been in this era for quite some time and was familiar with contemporary customs. During the reign of Wang Mang, who restored ancient traditions, it was stated, “Two names are not proper.” This meant that names could only consist of a single word, like Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Sun Quan, and others. From the Eastern Han to the Wei and Jin dynasties, the aristocracy upheld the use of single names.
However, with the rise of Daoism and the flourishing of Huang-Lao, the teachings of the Celestial Master began to gain popularity among the aristocracy. Followers of the Celestial Master would add characters like “Zhi,” “Dao,” “Ling,” “Xuan,” and others to their names, creating “Dao names.” Similar to later figures like Wang Xizhi and his son Wang Xianzhi, who both had the character “Zhi” in their names, not only was there no taboo against it, but it could also be passed down through generations.
Now, this Zu Taizhi is popping up, not too far removed from the era of Zu Chongzhi, sharing the surname “Zu” and using the Dao name “Zhi.” Claiming there’s no connection seems highly unlikely! Could it be that this person is a descendant of that great mathematician?!
Liang Feng suddenly became interested and asked eagerly, “This young Zu, which academy did he enter into within Chongwen Hall?”
“It should be the Qiuzhi Academy.” Zhang Bin didn’t expect the lord to be so enthusiastic, but he truthfully answered.
The Academy of Seeking Knowledge! Liang Feng’s joy surged even more. The saying goes that family knowledge is deep, and scholarly families often pass down their expertise. If this Zu Taizhi entered the Academy of Seeking Knowledge, it was very likely to be a continuation of the family tradition! This was no less than a great thing comparable to Zu Ti joining the camp!
“Fetch his academic records; I want to take a look.”
※
Advertisement
After moving to Jinyang, Chongwen Hall, originally a simple academy, was divided into three academies: “Hongwen,” “Qiuxian,” and “Qiuzhi.” Hongwen Academy was responsible for education, Qiuxian Academy accommodated scholars of Confucian classics and provided talents for the Governor’s Office. Qiuzhi Academy was a brand-new academy that focused not on classics but on miscellaneous subjects like mathematics, divination, geography, craftsmanship, and natural history. Although there were avenues for advancement, including stipends and official positions, choosing Qiuzhi Academy was ultimately the minority’s choice.
Zu Taizhi chose this academy!
This was different from his original plan, as he had boasted to his elder brother about serving in Bing County. Among the three academies of Chongwen Hall, Qiuxian Academy was the most esteemed by scholars. Besides the rich collection of books, just engaging in discussions with academicians on Confucian classics could provide significant benefits. Moreover, this place was also where officials were selected in Bing County, much more dignified than the Imperial Examination, and it could achieve a widespread reputation.
Naturally, this place attracted everyone’s attention. However, the admission requirements were exceptionally strict. Besides being recommended by academicians, one could only submit their academic records, and undergo three tests and five reviews before being selected.
The Qiuzhi Academy was different. Since it focused on miscellaneous studies, it was even quieter than Hongwen Academy. Admission was based on the quality of the written papers, but the criteria for “good” were different here. It wasn’t about literary elegance, poetry, or classical phrases; rather, it emphasized the words “new” and “clever.” Only ideas that were innovative and unique could meet the admission standards. However, lacking a written paper was not a hindrance. Each subject in the academy had its own assessment standards, and if one gained the recognition of an academician in their chosen field, they could become a member, albeit with a lower status, starting from a student.
In a place that seemed to offer no promising future or dignity, Zu Taizhi couldn’t resist the temptation. Since childhood, he has immersed himself in mathematics, especially books on methods and calculations. He even had a hobby of writing strange and supernatural tales. When at home, studying classics was a necessity, and these less prestigious interests had to remain hidden. But in Jinyang, far from home and without elders around, encountering such a magical academy, how could Zu Taizhi not be intrigued?
Moreover, it was possible to transfer between the three academies. After completing a year and passing evaluations, one could switch to another academy. If staying in the Qiuzhi Academy proved untenable, changing places was an option.
With such thoughts in mind, Zu Taizhi submitted his written paper, focusing on topics like circle-cutting techniques and the application of water mills. Many ideas in his paper were inspired by his insights after reading the commentary on the “Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art.” As expected, he was admitted to the academy.
Within the Qiuzhi Academy, one could study in the library or delve into a specific subject. If something one specialized in gained recognition from the Governor’s Office, a substantial stipend could be obtained. Currently, the subjects with the greatest emphasis are mathematics and geography, with a strong trend in divination. Craftsmanship and natural history were less popular.
Zu Taizhi didn’t immediately choose a subject but spent more than ten days in the library reading various books. The local gazetteers here were even more numerous than those in the Zu family’s collection, making him itch to explore the world outside! However, his interest was more in local products and unusual stories than actual geography. So, he didn’t immediately commit to a popular subject.
Advertisement
While perusing books in the library, Zu Taizhi did, however, make the acquaintance of a fellow enthusiast.
Early in the morning, after finishing breakfast in the dining hall, Zu Taizhi, armed with the notes he transcribed the day before, headed towards the library.
This library was just recently constructed, much more spacious than the main hall of the Governor’s Office. Rows of bookshelves filled with categorized books lined the interior, evoking a sense of emotion. Above the library hung a wooden plaque with four characters written on silver hooks and iron paintings: “The pursuit of knowledge values skepticism”.
This plaque was personally inscribed by Governor Liang, and the four characters had a somewhat rebellious meaning. However, who in Qiuzhi Academy wasn’t someone deviating from the norm in pursuit of miscellaneous studies? Seeing these characters, it stirred a sense of aspiration within people. Zu Taizhi couldn’t help but straighten his chest and step into the library.
The library had many rules, one of which was no talking allowed. Zu Taizhi went to a bookshelf, picked up the book he had identified yesterday, didn’t dare to be distracted by other books, and hastily headed towards the backyard. The subsequent reading room allowed people to transcribe and peruse books, providing writing materials, but again, no talking was permitted. However, the backyard had two or three small courtyards where this rule didn’t apply. These were specifically for the use of academicians with approved projects, making it convenient for them to access reference materials.
Zu Taizhi’s destination was one of these rooms. Treading lightly, he reached the door, entered without knocking, and found a seat. At the moment, a man was writing furiously at a writing desk, utterly unaware of Zu Taizhi’s entrance. Not wanting to disturb him, Zu Taizhi chose a spot without stacked books, carefully picked up the neatly written manuscript on the desk, and began to read it with fascination.
One person wrote, and the other read; this went on for most of an hour. Finally, the writer put down the brush, rubbed his wrist, and lifted his head, only then noticing the presence of a guest.
“Fuchen, you’re here again? Still haven’t decided on your chosen subject? How about studying orthography with me?” The man had a clear and scholarly face, exuding an air of the popular image of a cultivated and refined individual. Speaking frankly, he continued.
Putting down the manuscript in his hands, Zu Taizhi sighed, “Brother Jingchun, your accomplishments are profound, something I can’t compare to. The more I read these annotations, the more I feel inadequate…”
The person in front of him, named Guo Pu, was from Wenyi in Hedong. He had a penchant for the arts of yin-yang calculations, five elements, and divination. Anticipating the peril of Hedong when Liu Yuan occupied Pingyang, he didn’t join other scholars in fleeing south but headed north to Shangdang. Later, he entered the academy and became a member of the Qiuzhi Academy, focusing not on divination but on orthography. The annotated book he was working on was the “Erya.”
Everyone knows that the “Erya” is a classic and the progenitor of orthography. The recorded content consists of ancient correct words, to put it more straightforwardly, it’s a dictionary that specifies official standardized language from ancient times. Studying the “Erya” is, in essence, interpreting the six arts, which are the fundamentals of the “Shi,” “Shu,” “Li,” “Le,” “Yi,” and “Chunqiu,” enabling people today to better read these ancient books and understand their meanings.
By all accounts, a book like this should be studied in Qiuxian Academy. However, Guo Pu himself preferred the Qiuzhi Academy. Moreover, he demonstrated creativity in his annotations, adding illustrations similar to the commentary version of the “Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art.” Once this idea was proposed, it received approval, and Guo Pu immersed himself in annotating books in the academy without any worries.
In recent months, his in-depth study has been focused on a volume of “Shi Chong”. It’s precisely the detailed annotated illustrations that left Zu Taizhi marveling. Who would have thought that the term “虫蚃” refers to “pupal insects”? With this explanation, one can easily visualize the larvae born within the pupa. The book also often includes annotations like “今言”1 and “俗言”2, concise and clear at a glance.
However, such extensive knowledge is not within Zu Taizhi’s possession. Even at Qiuzhi Academy, there are very few academicians in the field of natural history.
Seeing that Zu Taizhi remained unmoved, Guo Pu was not annoyed. He smiled faintly, “Orthography is ultimately dull; only someone like me, a worm, can barely manage it. Fuchen, you are young and unrestrained; you should choose a field where you can achieve something.”
Advertisement
Guo Pu loved divination and was quite accurate in reading people. His words made Zu Taizhi blush. Indeed, entering Qiuzhi Academy was his personal desire, but as a member of the Zu family, establishing achievements and contributions was the ultimate mission.
Letting out a light sigh, Zu Taizhi said, “Brother Jingchun’s words are not wrong. It’s just that after entering Qiuzhi Academy, I’ve been disturbed by the myriad of scenes, losing my focus instead.”
He couldn’t help but wonder if he should rein in his preferences and choose a subject that could be highly valued by Governor Liang.
Guo Pu didn’t mind, saying nonchalantly, “Shall I cast a divination for you?”
“This…” Zu Taizhi awkwardly waved his hand. “Let me choose on my own.”
He had witnessed Guo Pu’s accurate divinations before, and the idea of destiny troubled him. If he divined something undesirable, wouldn’t he be seeking trouble for himself?
“I observe that Brother Xiantu’s aura and appearance will encounter changes soon. As long as your heart is at ease, you will naturally gain something.” Guo Pu combed his goatee, giving advice.
This statement both surprised and pleased Zu Taizhi, but he also harbored some doubts. Could it be that the other was just comforting him? After all, his elder brother had already declined the position of Chief Secretary in the General’s Office. He couldn’t help but think of sending more letters to inform his elder brother of the peculiar situation in Bing County.
Little did he know that before he could finish writing his family letters, someone came to invite him to a meeting at the governor’s residence. The one extending the invitation happened to be the governor of Bing County at present.
