The Chongwen Academy is no longer within the governor’s mansion, but it is not far away. Following the servants into the mansion, Zu Taizhi didn’t expect that the place where Governor Liang wanted to meet was not in the hall but a study. Was there something important to discuss?
Feeling uneasy, when he saw the distinguished and extraordinary figure, his anxiety reached its peak. Zu Taizhi, with a slight hesitation, performed a bow, “This humble student pays respects to the governor.”
Everyone knew that Governor Liang was outstanding in appearance, but even with mental preparation, he was still overwhelmed by the demeanor of the person sitting. Appearance was secondary; it was those seemingly penetrating black eyes that induced a sense of unease.
Liang Feng didn’t adopt the airs of a governor, smiling gently, “Zulang has come from afar, I wonder if your stay in the academy has been comfortable?”
Zu Taizhi hastily replied, “The accommodations are excellent, with abundant food and good sleeping quarters. The governor’s hospitality has been generous.”
This is the truth. Chongwen Academy is unlike the county school; you don’t need to pass any exams to enter. On the contrary, once accepted, even if you are a student, they will arrange accommodation and provide food. Stationery is distributed according to the individual, and a considerable amount of paper can be received every month, which is extremely generous.
Listening to Zu Taizhi’s words, Liang Feng nodded with a smile, “Chongwen Academy recruits talents; how can we neglect you? You’ve just enrolled, perhaps you’re not aware. If you can propose a project in the academy, there is even a stipend to be received.”
The phrase “propose a project” was not unfamiliar to Zu Taizhi. If a scholar wanted to delve into a particular field of study, they had to outline a detailed plan. As long as they gained the support of the governor’s mansion, they could receive a salary. For many scholars who were passionate about learning but lacked financial means, this was a significant opportunity. However, the criteria for establishing such projects seemed unclear. Even someone like Guo Pu, annotating the “Erya,” could propose a project, which was quite astonishing.
Nevertheless, Zu Taizhi, coming from a wealthy family, didn’t mind these financial considerations. He replied, “Governor, with your generosity, I believe that in a decade or so, Chongwen Academy will become the foremost academy in the northern region.”
This statement was not mere flattery; it was a mutual understanding between the two. Liang Feng smiled and suddenly changed the subject, “A few days ago, I just read Zulang’s scrolls. Unexpectedly, Zulang has quite a bit of research on water conservation.”
This caught Zu Taizhi off guard, and his face immediately turned red. He had thought Governor Liang called him to inquire about his elder brother’s matters. How did he end up reading his scrolls too? Without showcasing his talents in poetry and literature, he unintentionally revealed a discourse resembling that of a craftsman, utterly humiliating!
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After struggling for a while, he finally squeezed out a response, “This… it’s just a playful creation, not worthy of serious consideration.”
“Why can’t it be taken seriously?” Liang Feng raised an eyebrow. “Agriculture is crucial to the rise and fall of the country, the foremost matter in the world. In recent years, the canals dug in Binxian alone may total thousands of miles, and water mills are innovated annually for the benefit of all industries. If the scrolls were not well-written, how could the Qiuzhi Academy have accepted them?”
Zu Taizhi was momentarily stunned, unsure of how to reply. From a young age, the elders around him emphasized classics, history, rituals, and Confucian texts. As he grew older, he had to study the profound philosophy of Laozi and Zhuangzi, learning how to be a refined and elegant gentleman. Poetry and philosophical discussions were the most valued talents in the contemporary world. Calculations? Water conservation? Those were considered trivial pursuits.
Even Guo Pu, whom he had recently met, was a true gentleman. His poetry was ethereal, his prose splendid, and his extensive knowledge was truly remarkable. Compared to others, Zu Taizhi’s seemingly insignificant hobby was hardly worth mentioning.
However, the person in front of him didn’t seem like someone casually feigning interest. Could it be that this governor truly valued his scrolls and summoned him for that reason?
Seeing the young man in front of him growing somewhat uneasy, Liang Feng no longer kept him in suspense and directly said, “I established the Chongwen Three Academies to select talents. To govern a state and pacify the people, we can’t rely solely on poetry and literature. I wonder, Zulang, in which subject do you wish to excel and continue your in-depth study?”
His words were not exhaustive, but the meaning was clear, and it contradicted the prevailing trend of focusing solely on scholarly pursuits. However, Governor Liang was known for his diligent governance and care for the people, and given the situation in Bing County under his administration, such thoughts weren’t entirely strange. Yet, speaking these words in front of him, especially mentioning the scrolls, implied something more. Could scholars from Qiuzhi Academy also hold official positions?
Now, Zu Taizhi hesitated. He hadn’t decided on a subject yet, but when facing those clear, mirror-like eyes, he couldn’t conceal his thoughts. After biting his lip, he spoke in a low voice, “I… I would like to try the subject of craftsmanship…”
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This was truly somewhat unconventional. “Craftsmanship” originally referred to an official position in the Qin Dynasty, overseeing the construction of palaces and managing expenditures. In Qiuzhi Academy, using the character “craftsman” lowered its status, and such matters resembling artisan work were not something scholars of noble descent should engage in. However, Zu Taizhi couldn’t help himself. It was the first time he had encountered a mode of operation where deductions could lead to tangible results.
Liang Feng didn’t laugh; instead, he sighed lightly, “The Craftsmanship Department was initiated by Academician Liu. Although its scale is limited, its output is the foundation that supports the academy. However, people disdain its mundanity and complexity, unwilling to delve deep, yet it is close to the Dao!”
Everyone knew the line from Zhuangzi’s “Inner Chapters”: “What I like is the Dao, and what I advance in is technical skill.” But who would interpret it in this way? Whether this statement was correct or not, Zu Taizhi couldn’t discern. However, the mention of supporting the academy surprised him. Could craftsmanship have such utility?
Liang Feng’s words continued, “Currently, various bureaus are established within the governor’s mansion, each responsible for its duties. However, matters like water conservation, workshops, and construction are scattered across different bureaus, lacking centralized coordination, which has always been a concern for me. If we establish a new bureau, select capable individuals to lead it, and let the Craftsmanship Department fully exert its effects, only then would this department’s establishment not be in vain.”
Zu Taizhi blinked, trying to comprehend the implication. Did the governor intend for him to take on the role of this new bureau’s clerk? He had only been in Jinyang for a few days!
“Governor… governor…” Zu Taizhi opened his mouth twice but couldn’t articulate the rest.
Liang Feng smiled, “However, this position is only equivalent to the other bureaus, and it needs to be selected from within the Craftsmanship Department. It’s not a significant official position, so there’s no need to rush.”
Zu Taizhi understood in an instant. This new bureau was just a suggestion, and whether he could be chosen depends on the circumstances. However, in just a few sentences, it ignited his desire to strive for success. At the age of eighteen, with the Zu family not holding high-ranking positions in the court, serving as a clerk in the governor’s mansion wasn’t disgraceful. Moreover, the new bureau was established by Governor Liang himself, signifying its significance.
Was he capable? Zu Taizhi calmed down. The pride inherent in his aristocratic background began to revive. He had diligently studied for so many years, all for the sake of becoming an official. How could he shy away from such an opportunity?
Seeing Zu Taizhi’s gradually clear expression, Liang Feng also felt a sense of relief. This matter had been delayed for quite some time. Currently, there was no Ministry of Works, and the functions of officials were intertwined, making management extremely troublesome. He urgently needed a Ministry of Works to oversee various affairs and set the emerging projects and workshops in Bing County on the right track. However, there were quite a few individuals knowledgeable in the Craftsmanship Department, but those familiar with administrative duties were truly scarce. Having scientists enter politics was a costly endeavor, but technocratic bureaucrats were a different story.
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AD
Although Zu Taizhi was young, he had already demonstrated a certain level of expertise in his scrolls, and he didn’t reject the Craftsmanship Department. As long as his abilities matched up, he seemed like a promising candidate. Even without the aspiration of Zu Chongzhi, it was worth a try!
“Not only the Craftsmanship Department, but Qiuzhi Academy is full of novelties. I won’t neglect my studies. Thank you for the guidance, sir,” Zu Taizhi straightened his posture, and his responses became more composed.
This was the kind of talent he was looking for. Liang Feng smiled, asking a few more questions about internal matters of the academy, and then indicated the intention to see the guest off. It wasn’t until this moment that Zu Taizhi realized the governor hadn’t mentioned his elder brother at all. Could it be that this invitation was truly meant for him?
After hesitating for a moment, Zu Taizhi couldn’t help but say, “My elder brother is in Lu, and his term should expire after the third month.”
Although it was said to observe mourning for three years, the actual mourning period was only twenty-five months, which was two years plus one month. The period of mourning for Zu Ti was about to end.
Liang Feng did not respond immediately but said, “If everything goes as expected, the Governor of You County is likely to raise troops in Bing County within the year. The Zu family, being of the Fan clan in Fanyang, may find it inconvenient. After the chaos of war subsides, I will send someone to invite your esteemed brother.”
In these words, there were dual meanings. One was to hint at the future war, expressing an understanding of Zu Ti’s involuntary circumstances. The other was to indicate that Liang Feng hadn’t given up, and there was still an intention to invite Zu Ti to serve. However, there was an implicit hint that he was confident Bing County wouldn’t lose to the cavalry of You County. This demeanor and sincerity far surpassed the arrogance of the Sima clan.
Zu Taizhi felt a mix of emotions, unable to determine whether it was gratitude or reflection. He could only bow respectfully once more before taking his leave. As he walked outside, the sunlight overhead revealed a subtle flavor. Governor Liang’s way of treating people and handling matters had an unconventional charm. This temperament, wasn’t it quite similar to his elder brother?
Several days later, when Zu Ti received the letter from Bing County, he couldn’t help but furrow his brows. Zu Taizhi’s letter was extremely detailed, not only describing the Chongwen Three Academies and the situation in Bing County but also recounting in detail the conversation with Governor Liang. The establishment of the new bureau and the intention to appoint Zu Taizhi as a clerk surprised Zu Ti greatly.
Was this an attempt to show goodwill, or did Governor Liang truly value his younger brother’s talent? After careful consideration, even Zu Ti had to admit that Governor Liang didn’t need to use such a position to express goodwill. Their family’s reputation was not outstanding, and they were not of the highest social class. Why go to such lengths? However, thinking this way made Governor Liang’s broad-mindedness even more remarkable. He didn’t care about this somewhat impolite rejection; instead, he appreciated Zu Taizhi’s talent and intended to entrust him with an important task. Even on his side, he once again presented an offer that was hard to refuse.
It seemed that a war between You County and Bing County was indeed imminent. Governor Liang didn’t rush Zu Ti to join, instead, he withdrew gracefully, considerate and composed. However, this withdrawal unexpectedly stirred some restlessness in Zu Ti’s heart. Was he truly afraid of Wang Jun? With the Zu family’s background, even if he served as an official in Bing County, Wang Jun might not dare to punish them. He favored the Xianbei people and offending the powerful families of You County would quickly lead to a loss of popular support. Besides, if he truly had concerns, the entire family could relocate to Bing County.
However, did he really want to join Liang Zixi?
The Liang family was not a first-rate noble house, and Liang Zixi was just a governor of Bing County, overseeing military affairs in one province. Such a position was comparable to his old friend Liu Kun. As for Zu Ti, who was already in his forties, starting as a chief secretary was a bit stifling to think about. In the past, no matter how generous the treatment, it wouldn’t have swayed him.
But now, with Zu Taizhi’s letter. The Chongwen Three Academies, the new policies in Bing County, and the upcoming war between the two provinces. Was this really the scope of someone with a mere 2,000 stone? In these chaotic times, how many individuals were beginning to stand out in the world?
He had once said to Liu Kun that if one day the heroes rose in unison, he would like to avoid meeting his old friend in the Central Plains. The profound meaning behind these words was probably understood only by the two of them. They were both individuals unwilling to endure loneliness and were destined to stir up a corner of the chaotic world. His old friend had now achieved his wish, while he remained obscure. It was all because he lacked a noble lineage; no matter how outstanding he was, he couldn’t soar to the heights like Liu Kun.
Should he continue to wait for an opportunity, or should he turn his head and choose someone else to assist him?
Seated for a long time in front of the desk, he contemplated for a while and finally let out a light sigh. The days of mourning were about to come to an end.
Author’s note:
Zu Ti: “If the world is in turmoil, and heroes emerge, you and I shall meet in the Central Plains.”
I haven’t written about Liu Kun all this time, but the previous chapters have already explained the reasons. After Prince Jing of Hanzhong, the Twenty-four Friends of Jingu, starting from Empress Jia, followed every ruler in the chaos of the Eight Princes’ Rebellion, and their official positions were higher with each change until they served under Sima Yue, truly standing out. Liu Kun was a member of the top aristocracy of Western Jin since birth. Such a person was not someone who could submit to the lower classes. In fact, accepting Wen Qiao was also taking advantage of his youth and enthusiasm; otherwise, it would have been a daydream.
Compared to that, Zu Ti is much more approachable. =w=
In the previous chapter, Guo Pu is actually a background character passing through the world of Yin and Yang. This person is considered the patriarch of Feng Shui studies, and according to legend, he wrote both the “Burial Sutra” and the “Qing Nang Shu.” However, in the narrative, let’s stick to historical records. Guo Pu is depicted as a legitimate adherent of orthodox Daoism. Besides inheriting the family’s traditional knowledge of the Book of Changes, he also embraced Daoist numerology. He was the most renowned occultist of the Jin Dynasty, known for his expertise in divination, prophecy, and various esoteric practices. He had a profound knowledge of classical Chinese, unusual characters, and excelled in astronomy, calendar calculation, and divination. Skilled in literary composition, he was particularly famous for his “Wandering Immortal Poetry,” highly esteemed in his time. “Poetry Evaluation” praised him, stating that he “initiated the transformation of the plain style of the Yongjia period, hence he is called the first in the revival,” and “Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons” also said, “The Immortal Essays of Jingchun are towering and handsome.” He annotated works such as “Erya,” “Fangyan,” “Shanhaijing,” “Mutianzi Zhuan,” and “Zangjing,” leaving a lasting influence. During the Ming dynasty, there was even a compiled edition called “Guo Hongnong Collection.”
Guo Pu spent 18 years researching and annotating the “Erya.” Using the dialect names commonly used at that time, he explained ancient names of animals and plants, providing phonetic annotations and illustrations. This effort transformed the “Erya” into a crucial reference book for the study of flora and fauna throughout the ages. The classification system for illustrations of animals and plants introduced by Guo Pu was adopted and followed by all major herbological works after the Tang Dynasty.
Yiyan: Lord, you’re so devoted to researching others… QAQ
The Chongwen Academy is no longer within the governor’s mansion, but it is not far away. Following the servants into the mansion, Zu Taizhi didn’t expect that the place where Governor Liang wanted to meet was not in the hall but a study. Was there something important to discuss?
Feeling uneasy, when he saw the distinguished and extraordinary figure, his anxiety reached its peak. Zu Taizhi, with a slight hesitation, performed a bow, “This humble student pays respects to the governor.”
Everyone knew that Governor Liang was outstanding in appearance, but even with mental preparation, he was still overwhelmed by the demeanor of the person sitting. Appearance was secondary; it was those seemingly penetrating black eyes that induced a sense of unease.
Liang Feng didn’t adopt the airs of a governor, smiling gently, “Zulang has come from afar, I wonder if your stay in the academy has been comfortable?”
Zu Taizhi hastily replied, “The accommodations are excellent, with abundant food and good sleeping quarters. The governor’s hospitality has been generous.”
This is the truth. Chongwen Academy is unlike the county school; you don’t need to pass any exams to enter. On the contrary, once accepted, even if you are a student, they will arrange accommodation and provide food. Stationery is distributed according to the individual, and a considerable amount of paper can be received every month, which is extremely generous.
Listening to Zu Taizhi’s words, Liang Feng nodded with a smile, “Chongwen Academy recruits talents; how can we neglect you? You’ve just enrolled, perhaps you’re not aware. If you can propose a project in the academy, there is even a stipend to be received.”
The phrase “propose a project” was not unfamiliar to Zu Taizhi. If a scholar wanted to delve into a particular field of study, they had to outline a detailed plan. As long as they gained the support of the governor’s mansion, they could receive a salary. For many scholars who were passionate about learning but lacked financial means, this was a significant opportunity. However, the criteria for establishing such projects seemed unclear. Even someone like Guo Pu, annotating the “Erya,” could propose a project, which was quite astonishing.
Nevertheless, Zu Taizhi, coming from a wealthy family, didn’t mind these financial considerations. He replied, “Governor, with your generosity, I believe that in a decade or so, Chongwen Academy will become the foremost academy in the northern region.”
This statement was not mere flattery; it was a mutual understanding between the two. Liang Feng smiled and suddenly changed the subject, “A few days ago, I just read Zulang’s scrolls. Unexpectedly, Zulang has quite a bit of research on water conservation.”
This caught Zu Taizhi off guard, and his face immediately turned red. He had thought Governor Liang called him to inquire about his elder brother’s matters. How did he end up reading his scrolls too? Without showcasing his talents in poetry and literature, he unintentionally revealed a discourse resembling that of a craftsman, utterly humiliating!
Advertisement
AD
After struggling for a while, he finally squeezed out a response, “This… it’s just a playful creation, not worthy of serious consideration.”
“Why can’t it be taken seriously?” Liang Feng raised an eyebrow. “Agriculture is crucial to the rise and fall of the country, the foremost matter in the world. In recent years, the canals dug in Binxian alone may total thousands of miles, and water mills are innovated annually for the benefit of all industries. If the scrolls were not well-written, how could the Qiuzhi Academy have accepted them?”
Zu Taizhi was momentarily stunned, unsure of how to reply. From a young age, the elders around him emphasized classics, history, rituals, and Confucian texts. As he grew older, he had to study the profound philosophy of Laozi and Zhuangzi, learning how to be a refined and elegant gentleman. Poetry and philosophical discussions were the most valued talents in the contemporary world. Calculations? Water conservation? Those were considered trivial pursuits.
Even Guo Pu, whom he had recently met, was a true gentleman. His poetry was ethereal, his prose splendid, and his extensive knowledge was truly remarkable. Compared to others, Zu Taizhi’s seemingly insignificant hobby was hardly worth mentioning.
However, the person in front of him didn’t seem like someone casually feigning interest. Could it be that this governor truly valued his scrolls and summoned him for that reason?
Seeing the young man in front of him growing somewhat uneasy, Liang Feng no longer kept him in suspense and directly said, “I established the Chongwen Three Academies to select talents. To govern a state and pacify the people, we can’t rely solely on poetry and literature. I wonder, Zulang, in which subject do you wish to excel and continue your in-depth study?”
His words were not exhaustive, but the meaning was clear, and it contradicted the prevailing trend of focusing solely on scholarly pursuits. However, Governor Liang was known for his diligent governance and care for the people, and given the situation in Bing County under his administration, such thoughts weren’t entirely strange. Yet, speaking these words in front of him, especially mentioning the scrolls, implied something more. Could scholars from Qiuzhi Academy also hold official positions?
Now, Zu Taizhi hesitated. He hadn’t decided on a subject yet, but when facing those clear, mirror-like eyes, he couldn’t conceal his thoughts. After biting his lip, he spoke in a low voice, “I… I would like to try the subject of craftsmanship…”
Advertisement
AD
This was truly somewhat unconventional. “Craftsmanship” originally referred to an official position in the Qin Dynasty, overseeing the construction of palaces and managing expenditures. In Qiuzhi Academy, using the character “craftsman” lowered its status, and such matters resembling artisan work were not something scholars of noble descent should engage in. However, Zu Taizhi couldn’t help himself. It was the first time he had encountered a mode of operation where deductions could lead to tangible results.
Liang Feng didn’t laugh; instead, he sighed lightly, “The Craftsmanship Department was initiated by Academician Liu. Although its scale is limited, its output is the foundation that supports the academy. However, people disdain its mundanity and complexity, unwilling to delve deep, yet it is close to the Dao!”
Everyone knew the line from Zhuangzi’s “Inner Chapters”: “What I like is the Dao, and what I advance in is technical skill.” But who would interpret it in this way? Whether this statement was correct or not, Zu Taizhi couldn’t discern. However, the mention of supporting the academy surprised him. Could craftsmanship have such utility?
Liang Feng’s words continued, “Currently, various bureaus are established within the governor’s mansion, each responsible for its duties. However, matters like water conservation, workshops, and construction are scattered across different bureaus, lacking centralized coordination, which has always been a concern for me. If we establish a new bureau, select capable individuals to lead it, and let the Craftsmanship Department fully exert its effects, only then would this department’s establishment not be in vain.”
Zu Taizhi blinked, trying to comprehend the implication. Did the governor intend for him to take on the role of this new bureau’s clerk? He had only been in Jinyang for a few days!
“Governor… governor…” Zu Taizhi opened his mouth twice but couldn’t articulate the rest.
Liang Feng smiled, “However, this position is only equivalent to the other bureaus, and it needs to be selected from within the Craftsmanship Department. It’s not a significant official position, so there’s no need to rush.”
Zu Taizhi understood in an instant. This new bureau was just a suggestion, and whether he could be chosen depends on the circumstances. However, in just a few sentences, it ignited his desire to strive for success. At the age of eighteen, with the Zu family not holding high-ranking positions in the court, serving as a clerk in the governor’s mansion wasn’t disgraceful. Moreover, the new bureau was established by Governor Liang himself, signifying its significance.
Was he capable? Zu Taizhi calmed down. The pride inherent in his aristocratic background began to revive. He had diligently studied for so many years, all for the sake of becoming an official. How could he shy away from such an opportunity?
Seeing Zu Taizhi’s gradually clear expression, Liang Feng also felt a sense of relief. This matter had been delayed for quite some time. Currently, there was no Ministry of Works, and the functions of officials were intertwined, making management extremely troublesome. He urgently needed a Ministry of Works to oversee various affairs and set the emerging projects and workshops in Bing County on the right track. However, there were quite a few individuals knowledgeable in the Craftsmanship Department, but those familiar with administrative duties were truly scarce. Having scientists enter politics was a costly endeavor, but technocratic bureaucrats were a different story.
Advertisement
AD
Although Zu Taizhi was young, he had already demonstrated a certain level of expertise in his scrolls, and he didn’t reject the Craftsmanship Department. As long as his abilities matched up, he seemed like a promising candidate. Even without the aspiration of Zu Chongzhi, it was worth a try!
“Not only the Craftsmanship Department, but Qiuzhi Academy is full of novelties. I won’t neglect my studies. Thank you for the guidance, sir,” Zu Taizhi straightened his posture, and his responses became more composed.
This was the kind of talent he was looking for. Liang Feng smiled, asking a few more questions about internal matters of the academy, and then indicated the intention to see the guest off. It wasn’t until this moment that Zu Taizhi realized the governor hadn’t mentioned his elder brother at all. Could it be that this invitation was truly meant for him?
After hesitating for a moment, Zu Taizhi couldn’t help but say, “My elder brother is in Lu, and his term should expire after the third month.”
Although it was said to observe mourning for three years, the actual mourning period was only twenty-five months, which was two years plus one month. The period of mourning for Zu Ti was about to end.
Liang Feng did not respond immediately but said, “If everything goes as expected, the Governor of You County is likely to raise troops in Bing County within the year. The Zu family, being of the Fan clan in Fanyang, may find it inconvenient. After the chaos of war subsides, I will send someone to invite your esteemed brother.”
In these words, there were dual meanings. One was to hint at the future war, expressing an understanding of Zu Ti’s involuntary circumstances. The other was to indicate that Liang Feng hadn’t given up, and there was still an intention to invite Zu Ti to serve. However, there was an implicit hint that he was confident Bing County wouldn’t lose to the cavalry of You County. This demeanor and sincerity far surpassed the arrogance of the Sima clan.
Zu Taizhi felt a mix of emotions, unable to determine whether it was gratitude or reflection. He could only bow respectfully once more before taking his leave. As he walked outside, the sunlight overhead revealed a subtle flavor. Governor Liang’s way of treating people and handling matters had an unconventional charm. This temperament, wasn’t it quite similar to his elder brother?
Several days later, when Zu Ti received the letter from Bing County, he couldn’t help but furrow his brows. Zu Taizhi’s letter was extremely detailed, not only describing the Chongwen Three Academies and the situation in Bing County but also recounting in detail the conversation with Governor Liang. The establishment of the new bureau and the intention to appoint Zu Taizhi as a clerk surprised Zu Ti greatly.
Was this an attempt to show goodwill, or did Governor Liang truly value his younger brother’s talent? After careful consideration, even Zu Ti had to admit that Governor Liang didn’t need to use such a position to express goodwill. Their family’s reputation was not outstanding, and they were not of the highest social class. Why go to such lengths? However, thinking this way made Governor Liang’s broad-mindedness even more remarkable. He didn’t care about this somewhat impolite rejection; instead, he appreciated Zu Taizhi’s talent and intended to entrust him with an important task. Even on his side, he once again presented an offer that was hard to refuse.
It seemed that a war between You County and Bing County was indeed imminent. Governor Liang didn’t rush Zu Ti to join, instead, he withdrew gracefully, considerate and composed. However, this withdrawal unexpectedly stirred some restlessness in Zu Ti’s heart. Was he truly afraid of Wang Jun? With the Zu family’s background, even if he served as an official in Bing County, Wang Jun might not dare to punish them. He favored the Xianbei people and offending the powerful families of You County would quickly lead to a loss of popular support. Besides, if he truly had concerns, the entire family could relocate to Bing County.
However, did he really want to join Liang Zixi?
The Liang family was not a first-rate noble house, and Liang Zixi was just a governor of Bing County, overseeing military affairs in one province. Such a position was comparable to his old friend Liu Kun. As for Zu Ti, who was already in his forties, starting as a chief secretary was a bit stifling to think about. In the past, no matter how generous the treatment, it wouldn’t have swayed him.
But now, with Zu Taizhi’s letter. The Chongwen Three Academies, the new policies in Bing County, and the upcoming war between the two provinces. Was this really the scope of someone with a mere 2,000 stone? In these chaotic times, how many individuals were beginning to stand out in the world?
He had once said to Liu Kun that if one day the heroes rose in unison, he would like to avoid meeting his old friend in the Central Plains. The profound meaning behind these words was probably understood only by the two of them. They were both individuals unwilling to endure loneliness and were destined to stir up a corner of the chaotic world. His old friend had now achieved his wish, while he remained obscure. It was all because he lacked a noble lineage; no matter how outstanding he was, he couldn’t soar to the heights like Liu Kun.
Should he continue to wait for an opportunity, or should he turn his head and choose someone else to assist him?
Seated for a long time in front of the desk, he contemplated for a while and finally let out a light sigh. The days of mourning were about to come to an end.
Author’s note:
Zu Ti: “If the world is in turmoil, and heroes emerge, you and I shall meet in the Central Plains.”
I haven’t written about Liu Kun all this time, but the previous chapters have already explained the reasons. After Prince Jing of Hanzhong, the Twenty-four Friends of Jingu, starting from Empress Jia, followed every ruler in the chaos of the Eight Princes’ Rebellion, and their official positions were higher with each change until they served under Sima Yue, truly standing out. Liu Kun was a member of the top aristocracy of Western Jin since birth. Such a person was not someone who could submit to the lower classes. In fact, accepting Wen Qiao was also taking advantage of his youth and enthusiasm; otherwise, it would have been a daydream.
Compared to that, Zu Ti is much more approachable. =w=
In the previous chapter, Guo Pu is actually a background character passing through the world of Yin and Yang. This person is considered the patriarch of Feng Shui studies, and according to legend, he wrote both the “Burial Sutra” and the “Qing Nang Shu.” However, in the narrative, let’s stick to historical records. Guo Pu is depicted as a legitimate adherent of orthodox Daoism. Besides inheriting the family’s traditional knowledge of the Book of Changes, he also embraced Daoist numerology. He was the most renowned occultist of the Jin Dynasty, known for his expertise in divination, prophecy, and various esoteric practices. He had a profound knowledge of classical Chinese, unusual characters, and excelled in astronomy, calendar calculation, and divination. Skilled in literary composition, he was particularly famous for his “Wandering Immortal Poetry,” highly esteemed in his time. “Poetry Evaluation” praised him, stating that he “initiated the transformation of the plain style of the Yongjia period, hence he is called the first in the revival,” and “Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons” also said, “The Immortal Essays of Jingchun are towering and handsome.” He annotated works such as “Erya,” “Fangyan,” “Shanhaijing,” “Mutianzi Zhuan,” and “Zangjing,” leaving a lasting influence. During the Ming dynasty, there was even a compiled edition called “Guo Hongnong Collection.”
Guo Pu spent 18 years researching and annotating the “Erya.” Using the dialect names commonly used at that time, he explained ancient names of animals and plants, providing phonetic annotations and illustrations. This effort transformed the “Erya” into a crucial reference book for the study of flora and fauna throughout the ages. The classification system for illustrations of animals and plants introduced by Guo Pu was adopted and followed by all major herbological works after the Tang Dynasty.
Yiyan: Lord, you’re so devoted to researching others… QAQ
