Great Zhou Wensheng

Chapter 251 [If only I had ten thousand mansions, I could shelter all the poor and needy and make them smile!]

The next day, before dawn had completely broken through the night, a faint, pale light painted the horizon.

However, Luojing City had completely awakened from the sleepless night of commotion, and the first thing it did after awakening was to transform into an unstoppable surging tide of people, sweeping towards the same direction—the towering imperial city that symbolized the core of the Holy Dynasty's power!

The main roads leading to the palace, such as Zhuque Avenue and Chengtianmen Imperial Road, were already completely blocked by dense crowds that stretched as far as the eye could see.

Looking around, one sees a sea of ​​heads: spirited young scholars in blue robes; commoners in coarse clothes with curious faces; scions of noble families in fine clothes with extraordinary bearing; and even many exquisitely decorated carriages and horses, with their curtains slightly lifted, revealing the pretty faces of daughters of officials, both excited and reserved.

People thronged the streets, eagerly anticipating the event, and the air was filled with an almost festive excitement and fervor.

A tremendous clamor, heated discussions, the creaking of carriages and horses, and the hawking of vendors... all these sounds intertwined and mingled together, forming a powerful wave of sound that soared into the sky, as if even the bricks and stones of this ancient capital were trembling slightly.

The streets were practically deserted!
Luoyang was almost completely emptied.

Outside the palace, the huge bluestone square, which could hold tens of thousands of people, and the wide imperial street that connected to it, were now completely submerged by crowds of people.

The imperial guards maintaining order, clad in heavy armor, linked arms to form solid human walls. Each of them was sweating profusely, their faces tense, and they were exerting almost all their strength to barely hold the last line of defense in front of the palace gates and prevent the excited crowds from storming the palace.

The crowd was like a surging, boundless ocean, with waves of noise rising one after another, as if they were shaking the heavy vermilion palace gates and the copper nails on them loose.

All eyes were fixed intently, nervously, and with boundless anticipation on the closed palace gate that symbolized the highest power and majesty of the Holy Dynasty.

They have abandoned all other matters and gathered here from all directions today, all for one person—Jiang Xingzhou!

"Are they here?"

Has Lord Jiang already entered the palace?

"We should be there soon!"

The Ministry of Rites has already announced that today is the day of the third examination for Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Fame!

"I came here to wait before dawn!"

I must witness this historic moment with my own eyes!

"Lord Jiang has already passed two tests, and his calligraphy and painting have both reached the level of being known throughout the world!"

I wonder which highly respected scholar will be the examiner today?

“That’s right!

The two main halls and two pavilions are already in sight!

This is unprecedented in history!

If one can pass the three more trials, the Five Halls and Five Pavilions will be complete, truly unprecedented!

The crowd was abuzz with discussion, their emotions running high.

The young scholars excitedly waved their fists, their faces flushed, as if they themselves were about to step into the examination hall and face the challenge.
The older scholars stroked their beards and sighed, their eyes filled with both satisfaction at the arrival of a golden age of literature and their earnest expectations for the miracles that this young man would create.

Meanwhile, the elegantly dressed young ladies from noble families would occasionally tiptoe shyly, their cheeks flushed like the sunset, whispering amongst themselves about the legendary minister's astonishing age and unparalleled charm, their beautiful eyes sparkling with admiration and curiosity.

"Can you guess which great Confucian scholar will be the examiner today?"
What kind of astonishing and unconventional questions will they ask in the exam?

"Two days ago, Li Wenyuan, the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy, tested my foundation in calligraphy, and Zheng Shouchang, the Academician of the Hanlin Academy, tested my ability to create grottoes and blessed lands in painting. Both of them pointed directly to the core of literature and art, which is profound and extensive!"

Today's question will likely be even more tricky and unpredictable!

Will the exam include questions on classical texts and policy essays?
Strategies for governing the country and ensuring its stability?
After all, Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Literary Brilliance have the responsibility of assisting the Emperor.

"Perhaps the test will include poetry and prose?"
Jiang Zemin's "A Moonlit Night on the Spring River" is also a unique and unparalleled masterpiece!

I don't think so!
A Grand Secretary of the Hall of Literary Excellence is required to oversee all literary affairs and manage both yin and yang matters. They might even be tested on their practical skills, such as how to handle sudden disasters or analyze complex political situations!

Various speculations abound, with no consensus reached.

Tension, excitement, anticipation, worry... a complex mix of emotions permeated, collided, and fermented in the air, forming a tremendous pressure and gravitational field that firmly attracted everyone present.

Everyone is eager to know how this young genius, who constantly challenges perceptions and creates miracles, will cope with increasingly difficult tests that determine ultimate glory.
Will he be able to continue his unstoppable momentum and write another captivating legend?
On the edge of this bustling crowd, at the window of a slightly elevated teahouse private room, two slender figures stood quietly. They were Long Zhaojun and Long Zhaoyue, dressed in ordinary lady's attire and with their faces veiled by light gauze.

Looking through the window lattice at the vast, sea-like scene below, filled with fervent enthusiasm, they felt the almost tangible anticipation and fervor emanating from the crowd, and were deeply moved, experiencing something they had never felt before.

"Sister...is this...is this his reputation in the mortal world?"

Long Zhaoyue clicked her tongue slightly, her beautiful eyes widening. "This scene is even more lively and spectacular than when Father celebrated his thousandth birthday, when the dragon clans of the four seas and the great demon kings of various aquatic creatures came to pay homage!"

Long Zhaojun remained silent, her deep, star-like eyes fixed on the direction of the palace gate. Beneath the light veil, her lips twitched slightly, her voice barely audible yet carrying a complex, knowing tone:

"A prosperous age of literature and morality is the aspiration of the people."

He... truly deserves this worldwide attention.

At this moment——

"clang--!"

A clear, melodious, and penetrating gong suddenly rang out, instantly silencing all the noise and commotion in the square as if by a spell to freeze people in place!

Immediately afterwards, the heavy vermilion palace door, accompanied by a dull creak, slowly opened a solemn crack.

An official dressed in ceremonial robes, with a solemn demeanor, stepped forward, took a deep breath, and loudly proclaimed:
"Officials entered the court in order—Jiang Xingzhou, the examinee, entered the palace for an audience!"

In an instant, the entire square and even the surrounding streets fell into an eerie silence!

All eyes, as if drawn by invisible threads, were unanimously and precisely drawn to the slowly opening, deep palace gates.

Surrounded by a group of noble officials, a slightly slender yet exceptionally upright figure in a blue robe stepped out of the shadows with a calm and steady gait and an expressionless expression, clearly appearing in the focus of millions of burning gazes.

Jiang Xingzhou has arrived!

The third and most crucial examination, which will determine whether he can reach the pinnacle of literary achievement and the future of countless people, is about to begin its mysterious prelude under the watchful eyes of the entire nation and even parts of the Three Realms!

...

"Boom--!"

As the two heavy doors of the Wenhua Hall, symbolizing the highest hall of literature and learning, slowly closed behind us, the last trace of outside noise was completely shut out, like the receding tide.

Inside the hall, a solemn and almost stagnant silence descended, with only the faint sounds of breathing and the rustling of clothing audible.

The towering dome casts a shadow, while several bright rays of sunlight stream through the carved windows, like the opening of heavenly eyes, cutting out dazzling spots of light on the smooth, mirror-like gold brick floor. Tiny dust particles dance silently in the beams of light, like fragments of time.

Jiang Xingzhou, dressed in a blue robe, walked with composure and steadiness through the silent ranks of nobles and officials standing on both sides, and went straight to the foot of the imperial steps and the front of the red steps.

The gazes that fell upon him, whether inquiring, admiring, or complex, did not slow his steps in the slightest.

He stopped and gracefully straightened his already impeccably dressed clothes. Then, facing Empress Wu Mingyue, who sat atop the throne entwined with nine dragons, and the five literary and Daoist masters standing on either side of the throne like the Five Sacred Mountains guarding a palace, their auras as deep as the sea, he bowed deeply and performed a standard and respectful salute.

His voice was clear and melodious, like a jade chime, peaceful yet possessing a strange penetrating power, echoing clearly in the hall where the silence was so profound you could hear a pin drop.
"Your subject, Jiang Xingzhou, has come to take the third round of the examination for Grand Secretaries of the Hall!"

The moment the words fell, the air in the entire Wenhua Hall seemed to freeze and become heavier, with an invisible pressure spreading out.

Empress Wu Mingyue sat regally on her throne, the beaded curtain hanging from her phoenix crown swaying slightly. Behind it, her phoenix eyes were deep and undisguised, filled with admiration, eager expectation, and a complex emotion that only she herself could understand. Her gaze was fixed on the young figure in the hall who already exuded the air of a pillar of strength.

She nodded slightly, her lips parted slightly, and her voice carried the unique majesty of an emperor, yet also contained a hint of barely perceptible gentleness:

"Jiang Aiqing, rise."

The five great Confucian scholars seated on either side of the imperial steps—Lu Mingde, Dong Xian, Li Wenyuan, Zheng Shouchang, and Zhou Pu—also wore solemn and dignified expressions.

Their gazes were no longer those of pure scrutiny and examination, but rather filled with an almost equal level of respect, and even carried a hint of the amazement and heartfelt recognition of senior masters witnessing rising stars surpassing their predecessors.

For two consecutive days, two masterpieces that can be described as divine inspiration have undoubtedly captivated these great scholars who have stood at the pinnacle of literature for countless years.

At this moment, they no longer viewed Jiang Xingzhou as an ordinary junior taking the exam, but as a fellow traveler who had already touched the threshold of the highest hall of literature and was worthy of sitting down and discussing philosophy with them.

The civil and military officials standing in the hall held their breath, their eyes fixed intently on Jiang Xingzhou.

Their eyes held an overwhelming sense of awe, a profound shock, and even a touch of disbelief and disbelief at witnessing history.

Everyone knows perfectly well that what Jiang Xingzhou is doing is a truly unprecedented feat!

Throughout history, the examination for Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Fame has been extremely rigorous, but the standards have been relatively clear: one must either possess the literary talent to demonstrate their ability to write poetry and prose that reaches the level of Mingzhou, or demonstrate their strategic wisdom and ability to govern the country through their knowledge of classics and policy essays.

When a great scholar sets a question, there are traditional categories and standards for evaluation. As long as the examinee does his best within the established framework, he has a chance of passing.

However, the evaluation criteria for Jiang Xingzhou this time have been raised to a terrifying level that makes it almost hopeless for those who come after him, because of his amazing and unconventional performance in the previous two days!
"To the point of satisfying this old man"—this seemingly simple and casual request is actually the highest and most demanding standard!

This means that the great Confucian scholars no longer presuppose specific topics and standard answers, but instead use their own profound literary and moral cultivation and transcendent vision as the sole yardstick to comprehensively evaluate Jiang Xingzhou's every response.

Only when its performance can truly touch the hearts of great Confucian scholars, evoke deep resonance, and even bring them new inspiration and insights, can it be considered "satisfactory"!
Jiang Xingzhou, however, responded to this extremely demanding situation with a near-perfect and flawless attitude!
First came the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," a masterpiece of calligraphy, its strokes so powerful they seemed to inspire divine inspiration, making it renowned throughout the world!
Then came "The Peach Blossom Spring," a masterpiece of both poetry and painting, with boundless meaning that opened up a hidden paradise within the painting, continuing its fame throughout the world!
These two answers have long surpassed the simple statement of "passing the assessment." They have redefined the benchmark for the assessment of "Grand Scholar of the Hall of Fame" with their outstanding abilities!

They not only satisfied the great Confucian scholars, but also shocked and impressed them!
It was precisely because he demonstrated such terrifying strength that transcended conventions and pointed directly to the origin and ultimate of literature that this originally formulaic assessment evolved into a grand feast set up specifically for him, aimed at testing the limits to which his literary skills could be climbed.

He was facing a challenge set up by five peak figures in literature and Taoism, with each level of difficulty increasing and constantly escalating!

The pressure is unprecedented.

Expectations soared to their peak.

Everyone held their breath, with the same question on their minds: what kind of amazing performance will Jiang Xingzhou deliver in this crucial third test?

Can he continue this incredible, universally acclaimed performance?

Under the intense gazes that could melt gold and corrode bones, Jiang Xingzhou slowly straightened up, his expression still calm as still water, his eyes clear and firm.

It was as if the invisible pressure that could crush mountains and make even ordinary scholars breathless was nothing more than a gentle breeze brushing across a hillside, unable to shake him in the slightest.

He is fully prepared and ready to face any challenges ahead.

The esteemed scholar Lu Mingde, who was presiding over the assessment today, slowly opened his eyes, which had been slightly closed. His eyes shone with wisdom like a galaxy. He surveyed the entire room, his gaze finally settling on Jiang Xingzhou. He spoke in a clear, booming voice:

"Jiang Hanlin, this third match..."

The assessment continues!
...

Inside the Wenhua Hall, the air was filled with the fragrance of sandalwood, and it was so quiet that you could hear the sound of a silver needle falling to the ground.

All eyes were focused on the great Confucian scholar Lu Mingde, who was slowly rising to his feet.

This elderly man, over sixty years old, with his slender body wrapped in a wide Confucian robe, seemed to bear the weight of a thousand years of literary tradition.

He stroked his long, white beard, his gaze as gentle as ancient jade, yet as deep as a cold pool, as he slowly swept over everyone present.

"What Jiang Hanlin displayed the other day," Lu Mingde said, his voice not loud, but each word clear and with a peculiar penetrating power, "is already the pinnacle of calligraphy and painting."

The brushstrokes are sharp as a knife, carving deep into the bone;
The ink's charm is like poetry, and its artistic conception is divine.

His technique has reached perfection; both his skill and his understanding of the art have peaked.

He paused slightly, and everyone in the hall nodded in agreement. Recalling Jiang Xingzhou's amazing performance in the previous two days, they realized that the ordinary assessment had indeed pale in comparison.

Lu Mingde abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming as heavy as a mountain:

"However, I have been pondering this for days and nights and have been unable to sleep."

Our culture and tradition have been passed down for thousands of years, and in this glorious era, what is the foundation of our culture?
What is considered important?

His gaze sharpened as he surveyed the entire room, finally speaking slowly and deliberately:

"It depends on people, on all the scholars in the world!"
Literature is not a plaything for self-admiration, but the foundation for saving the world and bringing peace to the people.

The fate of literature in the world rests on the hearts and minds of scholars.

The fate of a dynasty is tied to the backbone of its scholars!

His voice suddenly rose, like a resounding bell, echoing throughout the palace:
"Therefore, my question today will not test your knowledge of music, chess, or any other skills; it will only concern you with two words—"

His gaze was like lightning, instantly locking onto the man in the blue robe in the hall. "Scholar!"

"Please, Jiang Hanlin, use these two words as the core and express them freely."

Whether it's poetry, prose, classical texts, strategic essays, or even a melody on the zither, a splash of ink, or a passionate speech, anything is acceptable!

"Scholars..."

A suppressed gasp and whispers immediately filled the hall.

The officials whispered among themselves, their eyes filled with both admiration and solemnity.

This question, though seemingly broad, actually points directly to the essence of literature and the Way. Its lofty ideals and grand vision are indeed something only an imperial tutor of Lu Mingde's stature could propose.

Countless gazes instantly turned to Jiang Xingzhou with intense anticipation, eager to see how he would respond to those weighty words.

Jiang Xingzhou's face remained expressionless, like a deep, still pool.

He hesitated for a moment, then stepped forward, cupped his hands in a salute, and spoke in a steady voice:
Students receive the questions.

"Mr. Lu, are the criteria used in this evaluation still... to your 'satisfaction'?"

The previous two trials were based on the Confucian scholar's wishes, which everyone considered reasonable.

however--

"Do not."

Lu Mingde slowly shook his head, uttering only one word, which was as crisp and cold as an ice bead falling to the ground.

"Do not?"

The hall fell into a deathly silence.

You can hear the needle drop.

Everyone was stunned, their faces filled with astonishment and confusion.

Wouldn't that please the great Confucian scholar?
Then who will decide who is right and who is wrong?

Lu Mingde stopped stroking his beard, his gaze piercing through the window, as if he had passed over the palace walls and seen the countless scholars eagerly waiting in the streets and alleys of Luoyang outside the imperial city.

His voice was deep and resonant, carrying an undeniable power:

"Since the topic is 'scholars of the world,' how can the fate be determined by my personal likes and dislikes?"
That's tantamount to reinventing the wheel and deceiving oneself!
This judgment should naturally be made by the scholars of the world!
We must make them... 'satisfied'!

He paused briefly, letting his earth-shattering words stir up a storm in everyone's hearts, before continuing:

"Of course, not all the scholars in the world can gather here."

Therefore, let us take the 'miniature of all the scholars in the world' who are currently concerned about this place outside the imperial city and inside Luoyang City as the standard!
"If more than ten scholars in Luoyang stand up and express their dissatisfaction, then Jiang Hanlin's answer will be considered a failure!"

He turned to look at Jiang Xingzhou, his gaze deep:
"Jiang Hanlin, what do you think of this standard?"

"boom--!"

The entire Wenhua Hall erupted in chaos, as if a pot of boiling oil had been thrown into cold water!

The whispers of horror, doubt, and disbelief nearly lifted the roof off the palace!
Satisfying a great Confucian scholar is already an impossible task, relying entirely on the scholar's unfathomable literary and moral cultivation and profound state of mind.

Now, Lu Mingde has raised the standard to the point that it needs to be unanimously recognized by almost the entire scholar class in Luoyang!

Ten people opposing means defeat!
Luoyang was the capital of the Great Zhou Dynasty, with a population of over ten million, among whom the number of scholars and literati was enormous.
The number is at least several hundred thousand!
These scholars came from all corners of the country, with different backgrounds, different schools of thought, and vastly different personalities and aspirations!

Some are passionate and heroic, advocating the style of frontier poetry; others are delicate and graceful, captivated by the Huajian school of poetry.

Some people spend their entire lives studying classical texts and their meanings;
Some people pay attention to current affairs and are keen on applying knowledge to practical matters;
Some people have the world and the nation at heart, while others only seek to protect themselves... How can such a large, diverse, and self-interested group achieve almost unanimous satisfaction?

That's utterly delusional!

It's a million times more difficult than blending a thousand flavors!
Even if ancient sages were to be reborn, their profound words and meanings would inevitably be misunderstood or criticized, let alone a test conducted on the spot.

"Inconceivable!"
"How...how is this even possible?"

An old minister said in a trembling voice.

"Lord Lu's question...while its intent is lofty, the standard is far too harsh and unreasonable!"

Another official echoed in a low voice.

"Hundreds of thousands of scholars, their words could melt metal, their accumulated slander could destroy their very bones!"

How could there not be at least ten objections?
Even the slightest flaw could lead to utter ruin!

"It's not uncommon for even a hundred or a thousand people to oppose it, let alone ten!"
There will always be those who hold differing opinions, or those who deliberately contradict others to gain fame!

Even Empress Wu Mingyue, who sat upright on the Nine Dragon Throne, unconsciously tightened her slender fingers, and a hint of surprise and deep solemnity flashed in her phoenix eyes.

She knew that this was far beyond assessing individual talent; it was a challenge to the complexities of public sentiment and collective will!
This is almost an unsolvable situation!

The Grand Secretary Chen Shaoqing, the Chancellor Guo Zheng, the Minister of State Wei Min, and other important cabinet officials, as well as the ministers of the six ministries, all had fluctuating expressions and were in turmoil.

They asked themselves honestly, even they, as veteran officials who had been navigating the treacherous waters of officialdom for decades and were well-versed in the art of maintaining balance, could never have managed to ensure that almost no one in Luoyang was dissatisfied with them, even if they had devoted all their wisdom and cunning to it!

This is completely contrary to common sense and an unreasonable demand!
In an instant, all eyes were focused on the figure in the blue robe in the center of the hall. Shock, sympathy, regret, and even a hint of scrutiny intertwined to form an invisible net that enveloped Jiang Xingzhou.

The formidable reputation built up in the first two stages seems to be in jeopardy in the face of this seemingly insurmountable challenge.

Is Lu Mingde's move intended to hone his skills to the extreme, or... is he deliberately setting up an insurmountable obstacle so that he can witness the downfall of this dark horse?

Under the gaze of countless burning and complex eyes, Jiang Xingzhou remained silent.

Time seemed to stretch out, and the hall was so quiet that one could hear each other's heartbeats.

After a few breaths, he slowly raised his head. His face did not show the panic, resentment, or despair that everyone had expected. Instead, it was an extreme calm, like the sea before a storm.

He looked at Lu Mingde, his gaze clear and open, his voice not loud, but clearly reaching everyone's ears:

"I think Mr. Lu's question is...very good."

He actually said... "Very good?!"

The commotion, which had just subsided, rose again, even more intense than before!
Ignoring the commotion around him, Jiang Xingzhou continued calmly, his voice carrying a resolute strength:
"The essence of literature and morality lies in educating all people and uniting their hearts."

If one's writings and expressions of sentiment fail to touch the souls of scholars and resonate with countless learners, then even if one's words are ornate and dazzling, and one's skills are ingenious, they are nothing more than rootless duckweed and castles in the air, which will eventually dissipate with the wind.

Mr. Lu's ultimate criterion of "satisfying scholars" precisely rejects superficiality and directly addresses the core essence of literature and morality in governing the world and benefiting the people.

He paused slightly, as if an invisible aura was gathering around him, and said in a resolute tone: "This question, the student... accepts."

“However,” he changed the subject, looking at Lu Mingde again, “I need some time to reflect, and… I need the scholars outside the palace to clearly see and hear my ‘answer’ and feel my sincerity.”

A sharp glint suddenly flashed in Lu Mingde's eyes. He gave Jiang Xingzhou a deep look and nodded.
"Can!

You will have one hour to prepare.

As for letting scholars see it...

He turned to the throne and bowed, saying:
"Your Majesty, this old minister humbly requests that the palace gates be opened, and that representatives of the scholars be allowed to wait quietly in the square in front of the palace. Furthermore, that a loudspeaker be used to amplify the sounds and images from inside the palace and transmit them to the square, so as to demonstrate fairness!"

Empress Wu Mingyue took a deep breath, suppressing the turmoil in her heart, and her clear, melodious voice resounded throughout the hall:

"As requested by Minister Lu!"
By imperial decree, the palace gates shall be opened immediately, and the representatives of the scholars shall gather in an orderly manner in the square in front of the palace, without making any noise!
The Director of the Imperial Observatory was instructed to personally set up a loudspeaker array to ensure that every word and action within the hall could be clearly transmitted throughout the square and beyond!

Once the imperial edict was issued, it was like a boulder thrown into water, the ripples spreading instantly to every corner of the imperial city!
The news spread like wildfire outside the palace. The already massive crowds of scholars and commoners, upon hearing that the assessment would be determined by the "scholars' satisfaction" and that they themselves might become one of the "judges," were immediately aroused. The streets were deserted as everyone rushed even more frantically toward the palace gates!
Traffic in Los Angeles was completely blocked!

An unprecedented ultimate test, with the will of hundreds of thousands of scholars and the people as the final judge, is about to begin in broad daylight, under the watchful eyes of the world!
In the center of the hall, Jiang Xingzhou had already sat cross-legged, closing his eyes and concentrating.

He seemed completely isolated from all the noise and commotion of the outside world.

Within a mere hour, he must find a glimmer of hope amidst these invisible, turbulent waves, and compose a masterpiece that can conquer the hearts of almost all the scholars in Luoyang!

Pressure, overwhelming and devastating, is enough to crush one's will.

Opportunity also lies hidden beneath this extreme pressure; if one can break through, it will be like a carp transforming into a dragon, its fame resounding throughout the heavens.

Can he succeed?
No one knows.

Jiang Xingzhou himself was unaware of this.

All he could do at that moment was to immerse himself in the endless sea of ​​literary thoughts, searching for that faint but possibly existing—string of resonance.

...

Inside the Wenhua Hall, the smoke from sandalwood rose straight up, and time quietly passed in the almost frozen silence.

The one-hour deadline, like an hourglass hanging in the corner of the palace, is about to be settled.

Jiang Xingzhou, who had been sitting cross-legged with his eyes closed for a long time, finally opened his eyes slowly after his eyelashes trembled slightly.

There was not a trace of anxiety or trepidation in those eyes before the exam; only a clear and bright look, like the sky after a rain, as if reflecting the trajectory of countless stars, or as if they had already discerned the true meaning of the word "scholar" in deep meditation.

The deep and reserved scholarly aura that had always surrounded him now flowed naturally and gently like a thawing spring river, subtly resonating with the vast and eager atmosphere of the scholars outside the hall.

He rose slowly and composedly, merely adjusting the already nearly wrinkle-free hem of his blue robe. He then bowed respectfully to the Empress on the throne and the five great Confucian scholars, his voice calm and soothing, yet carrying an unwavering and authoritative strength.
"Your Majesty, gentlemen."

"After much deliberation, the student concluded that since the core of this question lies in the 'scholars,' the true answer should not be confined to these grand halls and pavilions, but should reside 'among the scholars.'"

"If we are confined to this heavily fortified palace, even if we have amplification arrays to transmit our voices, it will ultimately be like shouting through a wall, like looking at flowers through fog. It will be difficult to touch the true hearts of the scholars and to feel the sincerity of our fellow students."

Therefore, I humbly request—

He paused slightly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, and said clearly, “Step out of this palace gate, into the crowd of scholars, face your thousands of fellow students, and answer on the spot in this situation!”

Upon hearing this, a suppressed gasp and a slight commotion erupted in the hall.

The officials looked at each other, and all of them saw shock and worry in each other's eyes.

This move is extremely bold, bordering on reckless!
Hundreds of thousands of scholars outside the palace were in high spirits, like a cauldron about to boil over. If Jiang Xingzhou made the slightest mistake and failed to win people's hearts instantly, even if it only aroused the dissatisfaction of a small number of people, it could be magnified infinitely and trigger unpredictable or even out-of-control riots!

The risks involved are enough to deter even the most seasoned and prudent person.

However, Empress Wu Mingyue, sitting on her throne, suddenly unleashed a dazzling light in her phoenix eyes, as bright as stars!
She gazed intently at the tall, imposing figure in a blue robe standing below the steps. From his calm and unwavering tone and fearless demeanor, she sensed a confidence stemming from absolute strength and a magnanimous and open-minded spirit!
This is by no means a reckless impulse, but a truly magnificent spirit that dares to share the joys and sorrows of the people and breathe the same air as the scholars!
"Prelude!"

Without much hesitation, the Empress's clear voice resounded throughout the hall, filled with undisguised admiration, "Then I will do as Minister Jiang says!"

Arrive at the palace gate!

"I, along with my beloved ministers, will travel to this grand event to witness firsthand this unprecedented literary and cultural celebration of our Great Zhou Dynasty!"

"Your Majesty, Holy Might!"

The ministers bowed in unison in agreement, their hearts also filled with turbulent emotions.

The imperial decree was swiftly issued, and the heavy inner gate of the palace was slowly pushed open with a creaking sound, symbolizing that the boundary of the forbidden area of ​​imperial power was broken at this moment.

Yu Lin Jun Captain Meng Zhan had already led his most elite armored soldiers to form a solemn guard outside the palace gates, clearing the central passage and doing his best to maintain order. Sweat was visible on his forehead, and he was under immense pressure.

Palace maids and eunuchs, holding magnificent palace fans and ceremonial regalia, stood at attention on both sides, holding their breath, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere.

Jiang Xingzhou stood inside the gate, taking a deep breath as if he were taking in the hustle and bustle and anticipation outside the hall.

Immediately, with a slight sway of the hem of his blue robe, he took firm and steady steps, stepping first out of the palace gate that symbolized the core of power in the world!

Behind him, Empress Wu Mingyue, adorned in a phoenix coronet and embroidered robe, slowly emerged, surrounded by palace attendants and eunuchs, exuding majesty and natural grace.

The five great scholars had different expressions, but all were extremely solemn. They walked side by side, representing the scrutiny of the pinnacle of literature and scholarship.

The prime ministers of the three provinces, the ministers of the six ministries and the nine ministers, and other civil and military officials also filed out in order of rank.

This team, which brought together the highest authority and the most outstanding literary and artistic talents of the Great Zhou Dynasty, had now become the background, following the young, green-robed figure who was forging ahead!
When Jiang Xingzhou's figure appeared clearly outside the open palace gates, bathed in the blazing afternoon sun—

"boom!!!"

The vast, dark sea of ​​scholars in front of the palace square fell into an extreme, deathly silence, as if even breathing had stopped, as if they could not believe the sight before them.

Then, like a long-accumulated volcano suddenly erupting, it burst forth with a raging torrent!

"They're out!"

It's Jiang Hanlin!

"Lord Jiang is out!"
Look!

His Majesty!

His Majesty has also arrived!

"Five great Confucian scholars!"
All the key cabinet members have come out!

“Oh my God!
"Are they...Does Lord Jiang really intend to answer questions right here, in front of us?!"

Countless gazes, burning with eagerness and full of inquiry, were like thousands of scorching spotlights, instantly focusing on Jiang Xingzhou alone!
Excitement, anticipation, curiosity, scrutiny, and even a hint of barely perceptible doubt... all these emotions intertwined and collided, converging into a massive wave of sound that soared into the sky, making people's eardrums buzz.

The scholars couldn't help but push forward, the crowd surging like waves, everyone wanting to see more clearly this legendary figure who had become famous throughout the capital in just three days, and to hear his voice with their own ears.

The pressure on Meng Zhan, a captain of the Imperial Guard, and his soldiers increased dramatically. Their veins bulged as they worked with all their might to form a human wall to maintain the last line of defense and ensure the safety of the emperor and the core area.

Jiang Xingzhou stood atop the high steps of the palace gate, his gaze calm and serene as he slowly swept over the vast ocean below, composed of countless young, eager faces filled with thirst for knowledge and patriotism.

He saw the yearning and resilience for opportunity in the eyes of students from poor families, the innate pride and expectations on the faces of scions of wealthy families, the burning fighting spirit and ideals in the eyes of talented young people, and the scrutiny and composure hidden in the brows of those with rich experience.

This is what scholars are like!
The foundation of the Great Zhou Dynasty's culture and morality, the cornerstone of the nation's stability, and the hope for the future of the world!
Without the slightest hesitation, he slowly stepped down the white marble steps.

However, instead of heading towards the high platform that had been prepared for him, symbolizing status and distance, he walked straight towards the forefront of the scholar crowd!

This unexpected move once again caused a violent commotion and gasps from the crowd!
The hearts of the officials and scholars following behind instantly jumped to their throats. Empress Wu Mingyue's jade hands, hidden beneath her wide phoenix robe, unconsciously clenched, her phoenix eyes fixed on his back without blinking.

Fortunately, Jiang Xingzhou stopped steadily just a few steps away from the nearest scholars who were so excited that their faces were flushed.

At this moment, he no longer needed any of the amplification arrays set up by the Imperial Observatory, because the entire venue had once again fallen into an extreme, storm-like silence, with everyone holding their breath and staring wide-eyed.

Facing the boundless sea of ​​people before him, he solemnly cupped his hands in a gesture of respect, and his clear, melodious voice, like a mountain stream, resonated deeply in the ears and hearts of everyone present.
"Fellow students, fellow travelers!"

"Today, Master Lu used the two characters 'scholar' as the topic to test Jiang."

"I, Jiang, though unworthy, am willing to offer my body and mind here to attempt to answer this question!"

"But what is the answer?"

"It is not a lecture in a grand hall, nor a profound theory, nor a work of showing off skills."

"The answer lies between you and me, in this glorious cultural lineage that connects us by blood, and in the ever-beating hearts of millions of scholars!"

As soon as he finished speaking, the entire room fell silent; you could hear a pin drop!

An indescribable sense of solemnity and anticipation gripped everyone.

Everyone stared wide-eyed, their hearts pounding, waiting for the young legend to continue.

What kind of amazing and brilliant poems will he compose?
Or will you wield your brush and ink to create a masterpiece that will be passed down through generations?
Or should he publish a powerful and thought-provoking policy essay?

Under the spotlight of millions, Jiang Xingzhou slowly raised his right hand, his index and middle fingers joined together, as if holding an invisible, massive brush, and made a sweeping stroke in the air.

At his fingertips, a rich and solid stream of literary energy flowed continuously, and in the air in front of him, it began to condense into points of dazzling light, gradually outlining a blurry shape!

What exactly is he trying to do?!

In what form will he write this answer to the question of fate?
Can he truly win over the hearts of these hundreds of thousands of scholars from diverse backgrounds and with different mindsets?
Everyone's hearts were in their throats. The most exciting and perilous moment of the third test in the Wenhua Hall had finally arrived!

...

Outside the palace, all was silent; even the wind seemed to stand still.

Hundreds of thousands of scholars held their breath, their eyes fixed on Jiang Xingzhou's fingertips that moved slowly through the air, as if those fingertips were drawing everyone's attention.

His literary talent flowed like a gentle stream under his fingers, condensing in mid-air into lines of simple, unadorned verses, even carrying the scent of earth and a deep sense of sorrow. Each word was clear, reflected in the slightly pale afternoon sunlight.

"The Song of My Thatched Hut Being Broken by the Autumn Wind..."

"In August, the autumn wind howls fiercely, tearing away the thatch from my roof..."

"The thatch flies across the river, scattering over the riverside; the high ones snag on the treetops, the low ones drift and sink into the ponds..."

"The village children take advantage of my old age and weakness, and they even dare to rob me to my face..."

"He brazenly carried away thatch into the bamboo grove, his lips parched and throat dry, unable to call out; he returned, leaning on his cane, and sighed to himself..."

"The wind subsided in an instant, the clouds turned inky, and autumn's desolation deepened into twilight..."

"The quilt has been cold as iron for many years, and my spoiled child's unruly sleep has torn it..."

"The roof leaks above my bed, leaving no dry spot; the rain falls like a never-ending stream..."

"Since the chaos of war, I've had little sleep; how can I endure these long, damp nights!"

The poem unfolds like a long scroll of suffering, its delicate strokes almost cruel, vividly portraying the helplessness and desolation of an impoverished old man on a stormy autumn night. The realism is chilling.

The raging wind, the fragility of the houses, the sighs of the old man, the bullying of the children, the cold of the rainy night... all these scenes seemed to be unfolding before the eyes of every scholar, and the icy raindrops seemed to be hitting their shoulders.

However, the literary atmosphere surrounding the poem remained weak, merely maintaining the subdued level of "Leaving the County," its brilliance dim. Compared to Jiang Xingzhou's "Spreading Throughout the World" work from two days prior, which had caused extraordinary phenomena in the heavens and earth, it was like a firefly compared to the bright moon.

Subtle ripples began to spread through the crowd.

A murmur of confusion rose up as quietly as a mosquito's buzz.

"This...this is Lord Jiang's answer?"

"Every word is heart-wrenching and deeply moving... but it seems a bit too plain?"

"The wording is unoriginal, and the literary style is so thin... Could it be that Lord Jiang is at his last gasp today?"

"Alas, it seems that even literary geniuses have their moments of creative exhaustion... This question is indeed too difficult, and we can understand."

Many scholars who had initially been full of expectations now looked disappointed and confused, and some even sighed quietly, unable to bear watching any longer.

On the imperial steps, Empress Wu Mingyue's phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, and her five fingers quietly closed in her sleeve.

The five scholars exchanged meaningful glances. Lu Mingde frowned slightly, thinking to himself: This poem fully expresses the hardships of the common people, and its sincerity shows his keen insight.

However, if it only depicts suffering, its scope is somewhat lacking. How can it satisfy all the proud and diverse scholars?

The stringent standard of "failure if ten people object" now hangs like a sword over our heads.

Long Zhaojun and Long Zhaoyue, standing in the crowd, had sweaty palms and were extremely anxious.

Just when everyone thought the poem was going to end in a lackluster and almost "failed" manner, and some scholars were even reluctant to look away—

Jiang Xingzhou's fingertips, which were tracing a line in the air, suddenly stopped!
He slowly raised his head, his gaze no longer filled with the melancholy and sorrow of describing suffering, but became incredibly deep and intense, as if there were galaxies flowing in his eyes and earth fire surging within them!
He swept his gaze across the dark mass of people below, across the faces that held doubt, disappointment, or a glimmer of hope, his eyes radiating a compassionate light that transcended the individual.

Then, he took a deep breath, a breath that seemed to absorb all the light and sound around him, and the whole world became silent!
He joined his fingers like a brush and once again wielded the brush in mid-air!

This time, the movements were no longer heavy and slow as before, but became as firm and powerful as iron, earth-shattering!
"If only I had ten thousand mansions!"

The first line rang out with a sound as loud and clear as a great bell, suddenly exploding!

The previously dim literary atmosphere surrounding the "Leaving the County" section suddenly surged!

It transformed into a thick beam of white light and soared into the sky!

【Dafu!】

【Mingzhou! 】

The literary skill level instantly jumped!

May all the poor and needy in the world be sheltered and rejoice!

The second sentence follows immediately, like a vow made to heaven and earth!

The literary radiance changed from white to blue, and the blue light became brilliant, illuminating all directions!

A powerful aura of compassion and empathy for humanity swept across the entire venue like a mighty spring breeze!
[Protect the Nation!]

Countless scholars felt as if their chests had been struck by a tremendous force, and an indescribable surge of heat rose from the depths of their hearts, causing their eyes to instantly burn!
"Unmoved by wind and rain, as stable as a mountain!"

The third sentence, like a stabilizing force, crashed down!

The literary spirit transforms from cyan to blue, the blue light as deep as a vast ocean, containing an unwavering and eternally steadfast grand will and boundless power!
The poem's imagery has been elevated from the humble thatched hut of one's own to a magnificent mansion that shelters all the poor and needy in the world!

"Alas!"

A long sigh, as if expressing all the worries and lofty sentiments of all virtuous and righteous people throughout history!

"When did this house suddenly appear before my eyes?"

The literary atmosphere instantly turned from blue to purple!

Auspicious purple clouds rise from the east, signifying immeasurable nobility and representing the ultimate ideals and the highest realm of literature and morality!
"Even if my humble abode is broken and I freeze to death, it would be enough!"

[Spread the word throughout the world!]

Jiang Xingzhou poured all his energy and literary talent into the last sentence, shouting it out with all his might!
The sound waves were like thunder from the heavens, crashing heavily into the depths of everyone's soul!
"boom--!!!!!"

The moment the last sentence was written, the vast literary energy that had accumulated to its peak and transformed into a dazzling pure gold color erupted like a volcano that had been suppressed for thousands of years!

A thick, golden pillar of literary energy burst forth from every word of the poem, soaring into the sky and illuminating the entire heavens with brilliance!
The sky was filled with turbulent winds and clouds!
Auspicious clouds rise in thousands of strands, and rosy rays of light shine in ten thousand directions!
From the direction of the Confucian Temple, seven consecutive, resounding bell chimes echoed once more, their sound reverberating throughout Luoyang, a city hundreds of miles away!
Spread it throughout the world!
It's spreading throughout the world again!
But this is far from over!

The golden pillar of literary energy did not dissipate; instead, it poured down like the Milky Way from the heavens, transforming into a warm and abundant rain of light that gently and precisely fell upon every scholar outside the palace gates!

In an instant, regardless of their humble origins or their age, all the scholars felt a warm, magnanimous, compassionate, and powerful literary energy surge into their limbs and bones, cleansing their literary palace, nourishing their literary courage, and like a great bell, violently striking their hearts!
They seemed to see with their own eyes countless impoverished figures huddled up studying in the cold night and gazing at the stars in the leaky rain!

They saw more clearly the sage's heart, who was willing to suffer from broken houses and freezing temperatures, and even his own soul to be scattered, in order to pray that all the poor and needy in the world would have spacious houses to shelter them!

This is no longer poetry!

This is a grand ambition!

It is the Sacred Heart!
It is a spiritual totem that transcends time and space, resonating with the souls of scholars throughout the Zhou Dynasty and even the ages!

"Woo..."

In the crowd, someone broke down in tears, unable to contain their sobs.

Like a dam breaking, in an instant, sobs, exclamations of praise, and uncontrollable shouts erupted, merging into a sea of ​​emotion!

"There are tens of thousands of mansions and mansions, and the world's poor people are all happy!"

"Unmoved by wind and rain, as stable as a mountain!"

"Even if my humble abode is broken and I freeze to death, it would be enough!"

Countless scholars were moved to tears, their bodies trembling with excitement, and spontaneously and repeatedly recited these soul-stirring verses!

resonance!

An unprecedented resonance of souls that transcends school of thought, background, and temperament!
This poem not only vividly depicts their predicament but also ignites their ideals!

It struck the softest and most sublime pure land in the hearts of every scholar!
"Master Jiang!"

"Mr. Jiang!"

It's unclear who shouted it out first.

The next moment, hundreds of thousands of scholars outside the palace, like a surging tsunami, shouted Jiang Xingzhou's name in unison. The sound waves rose higher and higher, shaking the heavens and the earth, as if they would overturn the glazed tiles of the imperial city!
Every face was etched with tears of excitement, heartfelt reverence, and fervent agreement.

Let alone ten people being dissatisfied, even if one person had a different thought at this moment, they would have absolutely no courage to utter the slightest discordant note in this torrent of emotions!

The great scholar Lu Mingde gazed up at the towering golden pillar of light, tears streaming down his face. His body trembled slightly with emotion as he murmured:

"From oneself to others, from one room to the world."

He aspired to serve the people despite his own personal hardship.

This mind is the sacred mind, this path is the great path!
How could scholars across the land not weep for this?

How could I not be satisfied?!

Empress Wu Mingyue's phoenix eyes glistened with tears as she gazed at the figure in blue robes below, enveloped in golden literary aura and receiving the heartfelt reverence of countless scholars. Her heart surged like the sea.
"To have such a national hero is my greatest fortune!"

This is a great fortune for the Great Zhou Dynasty!

(End of this chapter)