Ink was dipped into the brush, and the four characters "Shang Shan Ruo Shui" appeared on the paper.
Compared to the formal style of the imperial examinations, Zhan Feiyu's running script could only be considered competent. However, for someone her age, such calligraphy was indeed rare, but it left the renowned calligrapher Qiu Zongxi somewhat disappointed.
"To learn calligraphy, one must first master the regular script, and when writing, one must start with large characters. For large characters, take Yan Zhenqing as a model; for medium regular script, take Ouyang Xun as a model. Once proficient in medium regular script, then condense it into small regular script, taking Zhong You and Wang Xizhi as models," Qiu Zongxi spoke slowly, ultimately unwilling to let go of this promising talent.
"Replying to sir, my ambition does not lie here, and I have no talent in calligraphy. It is merely the result of persistent effort," Zhan Feiyu replied respectfully.
When it came to the imperial examinations, Zhan Feiyu could shamelessly claim to be gifted with intelligence, as she possessed a near-photographic memory in this life and was willing to work hard.
However, calligraphy, besides diligence, required even more talent. Without that one percent of inspiration, one could never become a master calligrapher.
Qiu Zongxi had traveled for many years and met all sorts of people, both intelligent and foolish. But looking at the young girl before him, with her clear gaze and neither subservient nor arrogant demeanor, he suddenly understood why Gu Qingzhou had taken her as a disciple.
The young girl might not be a child prodigy, but she possessed a rare clarity of spirit.
Scholar Gu had served in the court for many years, and countless people wished to be his disciples. However, those who were good at studying were often bookworms, lacking this clarity and intelligence. As for the smooth-talking and clever ones, they were too focused on fame and fortune, lacking this purity.
"Whether you have talent or not is for me to decide," Qiu Zongxi waved his hand, clearly taking Zhan Feiyu's words as an excuse. He bypassed Yang Xu's "dog-scrawled" characters and looked at the homework Zhan Feiyu had placed on the right side of the table. "You've already started the Five Classics?"
The Four Books and Five Classics were the foundation of the imperial examinations. Although it was said that a thirty-year-old could become a Mingjing scholar and a fifty-year-old a Jinshi, Zhan Feiyu's age was a factor. Since she could already answer questions from the Five Classics, it at least indicated that she had begun her studies in the classics.
"The Book of Changes is the foremost of the Five Classics. What do you think?" Qiu Zongxi was quite direct. Instead of directly persuading Zhan Feiyu to study calligraphy under him, he began to test her knowledge.
Zhan Feiyu pondered for a moment and then said, "The Book of Changes can be divided into two parts in terms of content: the 'Classic' and the 'Commentaries,' and it can be called the source of the Great Dao..."
The 'Classic' mainly consists of sixty-four hexagrams and three hundred and eighty-four lines, each with its explanation, used for divination.
The 'Commentaries' include seven types of writings that explain the hexagrams and lines, totaling ten pieces, collectively known as the 'Ten Wings,' which are traditionally attributed to the sages.
If it were merely for民间 divination, it would be impossible for it to be the foremost of the Five Classics. After evolution, this book became a classic for self-cultivation, governing the country, and bringing peace.
In Zhan Feiyu's opinion, "divine right of kings" was the most important factor in establishing the Book of Changes as the foremost of the Five Classics.
When the words "divine right of kings" were spoken, not only did Qiu Zongxi's brow twitch, but the eavesdropping General Yang and Yang Shoucheng were also taken aback. Looking at the bewildered Yang Xu, they realized he was truly dense and uninspired.
"You are quite bold to say that," Qiu Zongxi's words carried no discernible emotion, but the flicker of light that flashed and then extinguished in his eyes revealed his extreme fondness for Zhan Feiyu.
The Book of Documents states: "The Xia dynasty served the mandate of Heaven." However, dynastic changes, in Qiu Zongxi's view, were merely the victors becoming kings and the vanquished becoming bandits!
Those who understood this principle dared not speak, and those who did not speak would not understand. Having traveled for many years, Qiu Zongxi's insights far surpassed those of ordinary scholars. It was just that the imperial examinations had led scholars to accept the concept of divine right of kings, without ever considering or daring to delve deeper into its underlying principles.
Zhan Feiyu's dark eyes conveyed a sense of helplessness. She really wanted to say that he was overthinking it and that she had no rebellious intentions. However, at this moment, the more she explained, the worse it would get. Zhan Feiyu smiled awkwardly, pretending that she hadn't spoken those four words just now.
"The Dao gives birth to One, One gives birth to Two, Two gives birth to Three, and Three gives birth to all things. What is the explanation?" Qiu Zongxi spoke again.
When he saw Zhan Feiyu's calligraphy, the thought of taking her as a disciple was a fleeting idea. But after testing her, this small flame-like thought instantly turned into a raging inferno.
Zhan Feiyu seriously suspected that her teacher had sent her to Huaian Prefecture not to visit General Yang and his grandson, but to seek out the Old Man Who Fishes Alone.
Yang Xu, whose writing resembled dog scratches, looked at his grandfather and father. Could he leave?
He shouldn't have come in. He would have preferred to stand in the courtyard watching the constables who were being beaten miserably, rather than listening to gibberish in the room.
"The Dao begins with One. One does not give birth, so it divides into Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang combine to give birth to all things," Zhan Feiyu had no idea that Yang Xu wished he could urinate and flee. However, having learned from the previous incident, she was now carefully choosing her words.
"Therefore, it is said: One gives birth to Two, Two gives birth to Three, and Three gives birth to all things. Two is Yin and Yang; Three is the union of Yin and Yang. All things carry Yin and embrace Yang, and the vital force harmonizes them."
Among the Five Classics, Zhan Feiyu was least adept at the Book of Songs, as she truly had no talent for composing poetry. However, she liked the philosophy of the Book of Changes; dialectics had its origins in this book.
The pure scholars of the Great Qing Dynasty might not appreciate some of Zhan Feiyu's heretical remarks and ideas, but Scholar Gu was a Grand Academician in the current court. Besides being learned and talented, he also understood the ways of officialdom, naturally accepting Zhan Feiyu's unconventional nature.
Qiu Zongxi was not a person who adhered to conventions. It was just that he was naturally unrestrained, saw things clearly, and understood them thoroughly. Therefore, he preferred to travel the world, being a solitary wanderer, rather than questioning or even criticizing the court in times of peace and prosperity. In the end, it was simply a case of being too profound for the common taste.
Upon hearing Zhan Feiyu's answer, although the young girl was very vigilant and good at hiding, in Qiu Zongxi's eyes, she was still too naive.
Looking at the silent Qiu Zongxi, Zhan Feiyu felt uneasy. She had heard from her elder brother before that the Old Man Who Fishes Alone was eccentric and rebellious, but now Zhan Feiyu clearly felt like she had encountered an old hunter, and she was the trembling little rabbit.
"You are a woman, and even if you pass the imperial examinations, you cannot hold an official post," Qiu Zongxi spoke again.
He looked at the girl standing ramrod straight but filled with wariness, a suppressed smile in his eyes, but his rigid and stern face showed no hint of a smile. "Instead of toiling away in study, why not become my disciple?"
Zhan Feiyu shook her head like a rattle drum. "My teacher would not agree, and I am a vulgar person, extremely vulgar. I crave fame and fortune. It is more suitable for me to take the imperial examinations."
Someone else would belittle themselves like this?
Yang Xu stared blankly at Zhan Feiyu, who was demeaning herself. Wasn't it said that all professions are inferior except for scholarship? She actually said she craved wealth and status. If this were to spread, she would likely be drowned in a flood of spit.
General Yang chuckled, his eye wrinkles deepening. Scholar Gu probably hadn't expected anyone to covet his little disciple, and now he was already poaching her.
"I saved your teacher's life years ago. As repayment for saving my life, I have nothing to offer but to give you to me," Qiu Zongxi said this as if it were natural. He stroked his beard and leisurely continued, "I also saved the Emperor's life back then."
The implication was clear. If Scholar Gu wanted to renege on his debt, so be it. But the current Emperor still owed Qiu Zongxi a debt of life.
Her teacher was far away in the capital, unable to reach her! Zhan Feiyu, saving herself, immediately said, "Repaying a favor with a debt is not the act of a gentleman. There are constables outside the courtyard, and there will likely be reinforcements from the yamen soon. Sir, you are old, and I will certainly risk my life to save you."
This was a life for a life! Years ago, Qiu Zongxi had saved Scholar Gu, and now, if danger arose, Zhan Feiyu would definitely save him. Even if there was no danger, Zhan Feiyu would create a "debt of life."
Seeing Zhan Feiyu eager to act, Qiu Zongxi placed a hand on the edge of the table and exerted force. With a crack, a corner of the table was shattered from within.
Zhan Feiyu's eyes widened instantly, and then she looked accusingly at General Yang beside her.
Although she was inside the house earlier, she had heard General Yang's words. He had said his old bones would be shaken apart? This was clearly a martial artist!
Yang Xu was also stunned. Zhan Feiyu was seeing Qiu Zongxi for the first time, but he wasn't.
As far as he could remember, Grandpa Qiu visited their home three to five times every year. Sometimes he would leave the same day, and sometimes he would stay for a few days. But Yang Xu had never known Qiu Zongxi to be a master.
...
Outside the courtyard, reinforcements from the yamen finally arrived. The sound of horses' hooves echoed. Leading them was Commander Wu of the卫所. Seated on his horse, he looked at the simple courtyard. "Leave immediately, or you will be killed without mercy!"
The villagers watching exchanged glances. The village chief was the first to retreat to the roadside, and the villagers followed, but they did not leave.
Although commoners should not fight with officials, Stone Village had always been united. General Yang and his grandson had lived in the village for these past few years, and they were considered part of the village.
Moreover, the village chief and several elder clan members knew some of the inside story. The Yang father and son had both been generals who fought on the battlefield and killed enemies. If they hadn't been framed, how could they have been exiled to Stone Village?
"Commander!" Constable Luo indeed had many connections. Although the other party was in the 卫所, if he came to Xiangwu County for business, Constable Luo would always find an opportunity to host a banquet. Therefore, they were considered acquaintances.
Looking at Constable Luo, who was clutching his abdomen and walking over, Commander Wu was not surprised at all. Outsiders didn't know, but he, as a commander of the 卫所, naturally knew the inside story. The constables from the yamen were just for show. When facing the Yang family, they were destined to be beaten.
"That young girl brought two escorts, a man and a woman, both skilled practitioners..." Constable Luo dared not curry favor at this time. He tactfully gave a general overview of Zhan Feiyu's situation.
"Elder Qiu is also here," Constable Luo added, a malicious glint flashing in his eyes. The reason he couldn't avenge his nephew Luo Hu back then was because Qiu Zongxi had intervened.
This old scholar, who was he? Even the officials from the prefectural city treated him with respect. Every year, they sent gifts to Xiangwu County. Although they were all refused, year after year, the prefect still sent people.
Commander Wu grinned sinisterly. He was just a pedantic old scholar, with one foot in the grave. Even if he had some reputation, what of it? This time, the order came from the Marquis's mansion. Qiu Zongxi could not protect General Yang and his grandson.
Of course, Commander Wu also knew that he couldn't act openly. Fortunately, their purpose this time was that young girl. The noble person had also revealed that this girl came from a merchant family, and she likely had a lot of wealth with her.
When Zhan Feiyu came out, she could see the situation outside the courtyard through the not-so-high yellow earth wall. More than ten soldiers on horseback held bows and arrows. Oilcloth was tied to the arrows, indicating their intention to shoot fire arrows if they disagreed.
"Constable Luo, you go in and search for the stolen goods. If anyone dares to obstruct the yamen from carrying out its duties, I, this commander, will definitely assist you in apprehending the criminals!" Commander Wu said loudly, his triangular eyes casting a sinister gaze at Zhan Feiyu, who stood under the eaves. He wondered what relationship this young girl had with the Yang family.
"Thank you, sir," Constable Luo was now acting like a dog relying on its master's power. With the fifty soldiers brought by Commander Wu, he had no worries and naturally wanted to get revenge.
The other dozen or so constables also looked fierce. They had been beaten by He Sheng without being able to retaliate. Now, their arms or legs hurt. In Xiangwu County, everyone respectfully called them "officers." When had they ever suffered such humiliation?
General Yang was not in a hurry, and Qiu Zongxi was also not in a hurry. Since Scholar Gu dared to let his young disciple travel a long distance from Huaian Prefecture to Weizhou, he was naturally confident in her ability to protect herself. Even the soldiers like Commander Wu were not to be feared.
Yang Shoucheng patted Yang Xu's head, signaling him to wait and see.
It was good to have an elder brother. If his elder brother were here, why would he need to step forward? Zhan Feiyu looked at Constable Luo, who was wielding a large saber and advancing aggressively. "Constable Luo, you said someone accused me of theft in the abandoned temple. I wonder if the county magistrate has accepted the lawsuit? What is the plaintiff's name, and are there any witnesses..."
Zhan Feiyu was very clear about the procedures of the yamen. She had been to court in Shangsi County before. Later, because of Wan Yunhao's murder, she had also been to the public court of the Nanxuan Prefecture yamen. Not to mention going to Fengzhou later, where she had dealings with the Fengzhou yamen due to the disappearance of Qi Heng the chubby boy.
The most unfortunate incident was in Huaian Prefecture, where her near-death experience in prison almost took Zhan Feiyu's life. Therefore, facing the fierce Constable Luo, even though the charges he presented were intimidating, Zhan Feiyu was not worried at all.
"Say whatever you have to say in the main hall to the county magistrate!" Constable Luo shouted sternly, his attitude arrogant, but he had no intention of responding to Zhan Feiyu's questioning.
As expected of a merchant's daughter, she was quite sharp-tongued. If this were a girl from Stone Village, she would likely be so frightened that her face would turn ashen and she wouldn't be able to speak.
Zhan Feiyu smiled faintly. "All under heaven is the king's land, and all the soldiers in the land are the king's subjects. Xiangwu County belongs to Weizhou, located in the Longyou Circuit. I would like to ask the three officials of the Provincial Administration Commission, the Surveillance Commission, and the Judicial Commission of Longyou Circuit, is Xiangwu County not within the territory of the Great Qing Dynasty, and does it not belong to the jurisdiction of the imperial court? Otherwise, how can the yamen dare to handle cases without obeying the 'Great Qing Law'?"
As this charge was leveled, Constable Luo's face suddenly changed. Although he was certain that Zhan Feiyu was bluffing, General Yang and Qiu Zongxi were present, and the villagers of Stone Village were outside the courtyard.
If these words were to spread today, he didn't know what Magistrate Zhu would do, but his position as a constable would be over.