Chapter 126: Crimson Sunset and the Lone Crane Soar Together; Autumn Waters Blend with the Endless Sky

The songstress arrived, music began, and the main hall instantly became lively.

Gu Jin Nian remained calm, but Yan Gong and Scholar Meng on his left and right stepped forward, first offering each a toast, then speaking in low voices.

"His Highness the Crown Prince, although it was said just now that someone was targeting you, there is no need for such ferocity at a banquet. I, Yan Gong, know you are a person of temperament, yet such behavior will cause some uninformed people to form a bad impression."

"Indeed, some people do not harbor ill will toward His Highness the Crown Prince, but what happened just now will make them develop resentment. Whatever you do today, I fear, after the banquet ends, will spread across the realm."

Yan Gong and Scholar Meng each spoke from their sides in low tones, offering Gu Jin Nian some admonition.

"Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, this is my Confucian principle: Gu does not favor the phrase 'the pure clear themselves.' I ask for your forgiveness, Yan Gong."

Gu Jin Nian understood their meaning and knew they meant well for him.

These senior scholars had once suffered such losses, so they feared trouble for themselves.

Sometimes, when faced with gossip, the only real solution is for the innocent to clear themselves, letting time answer; after all, even if you have a mouth on every part of your body, you can't outtalk these people.

But this self‑clearing is actually difficult, because in the process of clearing, if you happen to make even a small mistake, then it's embarrassing; you can't wash yourself clean.

If you have done nothing wrong, and after ten or twenty years someone presents concrete evidence, generally it means a conscience has awakened, leading to an apology; essentially you are cleared.

But that possibility is slim; few people ever have a conscience awaken, and even when they do, those ten or twenty years are agonizing. Throughout history, those falsely accused usually resort to suicide to resolve the issue; yet after a suicide, most perpetrators immediately turn to the next victim, believing the fault lies not with themselves but with the criminal.

No one sees themselves as the criminal.

Thus, Gu Jin Nian has already come to terms.

From now on, anyone who dares to provoke me, if they are far away I can't speak up; but if they chatter in front of me, Gu Jin Nian will not be courteous.

Not giving them a beating would betray the martial path I've cultivated over the years.

"Alas."

"Enough. In short, His Highness the Crown Prince, you must think thrice before acting in the future, or you will suffer great loss."

The two did not know what else to say, but they offered all the counsel they could; Gu Jin Nian's refusal is his own matter.

"Thank you both."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

At that moment, a light rain began outside; after the songstress's performance ended, the rain ceased, and the guests in the hall clapped. Then the Royal Prince of Yu raised his cup, looking at everyone, and said.

"Today marks the inauguration of my new hall; you all have traveled thousands of miles, which is my honor. I, the Royal Prince of Yu, offer you a cup."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, lifting his cup as he said.

At once, everyone raised their cups and clinked them together.

A cup of wine went down.

The Royal Prince of Yu's voice sounded again.

"At present, the court has declared war on the Xiongnu; I, too, wish to campaign, but age has taken its toll. Everyone, raise your cups again, to toast the Da Xia generals, wishing them a triumphant return."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, mentioning the border conflicts.

The elder has already gone to the frontier; by now, considering the time, he should be stationed there.

However, whether to start the war now still requires communication through the Ministry of Rites; the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty are intervening, hoping to turn swords into silk.

Their intervention has prevented the war from breaking out, which benefits the Da Xia Dynasty, as it needs time to prepare.

If the war does erupt, transporting supplies would be extremely troublesome, so while the three great dynasties and the Xiongnu negotiate through the Ministry of Rites, the Da Xia Dynasty is also preparing.

Thus the war has not yet begun.

It will likely take at least two or three months before a formal declaration of war is possible.

Nevertheless, after the Royal Prince of Yu's words, everyone had to raise their cups again.

With the second cup downed.

The Royal Prince of Yu grew even more delighted; after a maid poured another cup, he continued.

"For this third cup, I wish you all to toast my nephew, Gu Jin Nian, with a cup."

"These days I have heard rumors about my nephew; I am not fully clear on the matter, but I know that when Jin Nian was young he was somewhat mischievous."

"Now he is nearly an adult, defending the people, bringing honor to the nation, truly a Confucian‑Daoist prodigy. I have heard of every deed he has done, so I ask you all to toast him. As for any grudges, I trust that you, being people of reputation and status, will not quibble over my nephew."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, suddenly mentioning Gu Jin Nian and even advocating for him.

Now not only the crowd was curious, but Gu Jin Nian himself felt a bit curious.

The Royal Prince of Yu has good relations with the Kong family, yet at this moment he openly supports Gu Jin Nian, seeking to help resolve some grudges—truly unusual.

Nevertheless, the Royal Prince of Yu's face must be respected; most people raised their cups, and Yan Gong and Scholar Meng laughed heartily.

"His Highness the Royal Prince of Yu speaks rightly; leaving aside other matters, this Crown Prince defends the people, which I, Yan Gong, hear loudly, and moreover he establishes speech for the Da Xia Dynasty, which moves us scholars deeply."

"The rumors outside are merely jealous words. Come, come, I, Yan Gong, will be the first to toast His Highness the Crown Prince."

Yan Gong raised his cup; he is a man of some standing, speaking up and praising Gu Jin Nian generously.

As Yan Gong spoke, Scholar Meng echoed his words.

"Indeed, throughout history, how many can match His Highness the Crown Prince? Though he has not yet received his crown, he is full of strategy, overflowing with talent, and stands up for the people—truly priceless. I, Scholar Meng, feel inferior in this regard."

"To see His Highness the Crown Prince today fulfills my wish; Crown Prince, you must not decline."

Scholar Meng said with a smile.

He also supported Gu Jin Nian.

Facing the support of several people, Gu Jin Nian knew what to do; he lifted his cup, did not refuse, and drank.

"Gentlemen, you speak too highly of me."

"Uncle the Royal Prince of Yu also speaks too highly."

"I, a student, have only done what was required."

"It is not as the others claim."

Gu Jin Nian offered a few modest words; this is his way—if others give him face, he will return the courtesy, being humble and polite.

If others do not give him face, he likewise will not give them face.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's humility, everyone gave a slight smile; Scholar Meng and Yan Gong were also very pleased.

After all, this is what a Confucian‑Daoist scholar should be—humble and courteous.

An inappropriate voice also sounded at that moment.

"Is hitting someone also something one ought to do?"

The voice belonged to a Confucian, who, though seated in a corner, could join the feast; none of them were ordinary people.

With that voice, the atmosphere became slightly awkward.

At a critical moment, someone always steps out to cause trouble.

Gu Jin Nian glanced over and saw an elderly man, about sixty, not holding a wine cup, clearly indicating his dislike.

"Where is the songstress?"

Sensing the awkwardness, the Royal Prince of Yu couldn't help but call out for the songstress.

Then a series of beautiful figures appeared, continuing to perform.

"His Highness, the Crown Prince, do not hold a grudge against him."

"His Highness, the Crown Prince, come, come, I'll raise another cup to you; later when you go to the southern Su region, be sure to look for me. I'll certainly host a feast for you."

Scholar Meng and Yan Gong both spoke, one offering counsel, the other changing the subject.

Gu Jin Nian understood both of their actions.

He said little, but raised his cup to toast the two respectfully; although they claimed the toast was for themselves, Gu Jin Nian was not foolish and would not maintain a pretentious stance.

However, atop the seat, Kong Yu observed everything; he felt very pleased inside, though his outward demeanor remained calm.

After all, he dared not offend Gu Jin Nian; if he did, being forced to kneel would be disgraceful.

He still remembered the previous wager; it was merely a matter of playing dead now.

At the Royal Prince of Yu's feast, Gu Jin Nian would not give him no face at all; as long as he didn't offend Gu Jin Nian, no trouble would arise.

But Kong Yu was now waiting, intending to present a piece after the third round of wine to astonish the crowd.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye, about an hour and a half had passed.

During that time, after the songstress finished, another program took over; everyone chatted, laughed, ate and drank.

In fact, many present knew the real highlight would be at dusk, when the Royal Prince of Yu would certainly have someone compose an article or a poem to add to the merriment.

Among the attendees were many young descendants, who, upon learning this, began to prepare in advance.

They hoped to show off at that moment.

Of course, they also knew Gu Jin Nian was coming, but they were confident, having prepared half a month or even a month ahead.

Gu Jin Nian knew nothing, had no preparation, and would have to improvise a poem, giving him little advantage.

Moreover, after all that had just happened, it was clear someone was targeting Gu Jin Nian, affecting his mood; he feared he could not produce a fine piece.

Of course, even if a masterpiece emerged, what of it? Could his descendants not write something better?

Holding that thought, everyone waited quietly for the crucial moment.

And at this moment.

Gu Jin Nian did not contemplate the matter, but was watching certain things.

At this feast, no one came to cause him trouble.

It was odd that no one mentioned Sun Zhengnan; he had prepared for a verbal clash.

As a result, aside from a few short‑sighted remarks and a sentence or two of cold words, nothing else happened, which puzzled Gu Jin Nian.

"I suppose they're waiting for me at the Kong family banquet."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

Just then, Yan Gong beside him spoke.

"His Highness, the Crown Prince."

"Today the Royal Prince of Yu has held a feast in his new hall; have you prepared any poetry? I have long heard that His Highness, the Crown Prince, is overflowing with talent, famed as a poetical immortal; I have been awaiting it for a long time."

"Indeed, I too have been waiting for a long time; I wonder whether His Highness, the Crown Prince, has any preparation."

Yan Gong and Scholar Meng opened their mouths and asked thus.

When those words were spoken, Gu Jin Nian was taken aback.

"Write a poem?"

"The student has little preparation."

It wasn't that Gu Jin Nian hadn't thought of it; rather, the purpose of this trip was to settle matters, so he hadn't considered poetry.

Moreover, this feast was a last‑minute invitation, not something arranged long ago.

For a moment, Gu Jin Nian searched his mind for some verses.

There were indeed some poems.

But the problem was that those poems were not very appropriate for the occasion.

Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian's reply, the two Great Scholars sighed, showing a hint of disappointment; they truly wished to see Gu Jin Nian compose a poem and observe any marvel.

"What a pity, I have a friend who attended the Da Xia Poetry Gathering; His Highness, the Crown Prince's piece 'Spring River, Flower Moon Night' truly amazed me. I heard there was even a phenomenon of the bright moon rising in the sky; I could not see it myself, which is a lifelong regret."

Yan Gong spoke, expressing his great admiration for Gu Jin Nian's 'Spring River, Flower Moon Night'.

"'Spring River, Flower Moon Night' is fine, but I actually prefer 'Ode to Chrysanthemums' even more."

Scholar Meng spoke.

Each had their own favored poem, but without exception, all were related to Gu Jin Nian.

And at that moment.

As the songstress withdrew again.

Finally, the Royal Prince of Yu's voice sounded again.

"Today I have invited you all, but there is actually a matter."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, and immediately two figures appeared—a handsome young man and a graceful, beautiful woman.

"I have acquired a beloved son-in-law who is also a scholar; this banquet is also to inform you all that my beloved daughter is about to be married, and I hope you will grace us with your presence in the days to come."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke.

He said as such.

But upon seeing this man, everyone couldn't help but feel a little surprised.

"Zhang Shi, I didn't expect it to be him."

"So this is the introduction of his son-in-law."

"Zhang Shi actually married a commandery princess?"

The crowd murmured in discussion, while Gu Jin Nian was not quite clear about this.

"Your Highness the Heir Apparent, this man is named Zhang Shi, the foremost talent of Henglu, and the third-place winner of the previous imperial examination."

Xu Dongmu spoke near Gu Jin Nian's ear, introducing this person's identity.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian suddenly realized.

No wonder he's so handsome, second only to me—turns out he's the third-place winner.

In the imperial examinations of the three great dynasties, there is an unwritten rule: the person with the best appearance becomes the third-place winner.

Of course, if one is both good-looking and talented, that would be the top scholar.

However, generally speaking, the top scholar's appearance is not bad either, but the third-place winner is definitely the most handsome, since the third-place winner is selected from among the successful candidates for the best looks.

Most top scholars marry a princess and become a son-in-law living in the princess's household.

These third-place winners thus become the most sought-after individuals in Da Xia's literary circles—handsome and talented; when a princess marries a top scholar, these commandery princesses basically will take a third-place winner.

The next generation they produce is also not lacking.

"Student Zhang Shi, I have met you all."

Zhang Shi spoke and bowed to everyone.

Everyone also gave him face, raising their cups in turn to congratulate the Royal Prince of Yu and praise Zhang Shi's outstanding appearance and abundant talent.

After the pleasantries.

The Royal Prince of Yu had him sit on the right side, and at the same time smiled and spoke.

"Ladies and gentlemen, today can be called double joy arriving at the door, but I still wish to add another joy."

"This building, I have not yet thought of a name for it, so I am being bold and asking you, literary Great Scholars and outstanding talents of the Confucian Dao, for a poem."

"Whoever composes a good one, I will name the building after the poem and also award a thousand gold; does anyone wish to try?"

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke with a smile.

In fact, he also had his own plans and thoughts; today's banquet was, first, indeed to celebrate the new building's completion, and second, it was a banquet of the Kong family, attended by many prominent figures, and he considered himself half the host, entertaining them to expand his connections.

Third, this is the most important part.

He wanted his son-in-law to compose a fu; about three months ago he already had this idea, so he specifically had his son-in-law prepare for three months and also visited many famous poems.

He had read this fu; it was indeed extraordinarily splendid, saying it could pacify the nation for all ages is somewhat exaggerated, but it is absolutely a top-notch work, a masterpiece among masterpieces.

Even the Kong family, I fear, might not necessarily be able to surpass his son-in-law.

If he truly wins first place, it would also be a fine story, gaining some face for his son-in-law and some glory for himself.

If he takes second or third, losing slightly to the Kong family would not be hard to bear, at least compared to the Kong family, losing to them is not difficult.

Thus, when he spoke, he also appeared full of confidence, his eyes filled with joy.

Of course, the matter is as such, but being modest, if he directly let his son-in-law come, it would look unsightly, and others would surely think he had leaked the topic in advance.

Therefore, he must let everyone come first, being modest, modest.

When these words were spoken, at that moment everyone in the hall was startled, especially some young scholars who had long been waiting for this moment.

However, the Royal Prince of Yu being so modest, they could not possibly just come forward directly.

One should still keep a low profile.

After all, Kong Yu is still in the main hall; at the very least we must wait for him to finish speaking.

At this moment the scene is somewhat quiet, but what sort of person is the Royal Prince of Yu? At a glance one can see that many people here have been preparing for a long time.

Of course, even so, the Royal Prince of Yu did not let his son-in-law speak, but instead looked toward Gu Jin Nian and said.

"Jin Nian."

"Your poetry is famous, the literary world calls you the contemporary poetry immortal; why not compose a poem for your uncle's building? Your uncle has long heard of your great name—don't refuse to give your uncle face."

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke.

Everyone present knows that Gu Jin Nian's poetry is renowned; naturally, he first looked toward Gu Jin Nian and asked him to compose a poem.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian slowly rose.

"Royal Prince of Yu, uncle."

"It's not that I, as nephew, refuse to give face; I just came hastily, without even preparing a gift, let alone composing a poem for the new building—please, uncle, excuse me."

Gu Jin Nian gave a wry smile.

This time he really isn't being modest; he can't compose a poem on the spot.

He does have some good poems, but they are not suitable for the occasion, so they'd be meaningless.

Upon saying this, many people in the hall secretly breathed a sigh of relief; they had indeed been worried that Gu Jin Nian would come up with a timeless famous poem.

If that were truly the case, everyone might as well not bother; upon learning that Gu Jin Nian had no preparation, each person involuntarily let out a sigh of relief.

Upon hearing this, the Royal Prince of Yu's face showed some displeasure, but his heart blossomed with joy—Gu Jin Nian having no preparation is a great thing.

His son-in-law now has one less formidable rival.

Of course, on the surface, one still had to sigh.

"It's also my uncle's fault for not giving you prior notice."

"Alas, uncle never forgets your poetry; if you could write a poem here, this new building would shine with glory."

Royal Prince of Yu spoke; his words were half true, half false. If it were a timeless poem, that would be a real profit; if not, it would still be better than his own son-in-law.

"Please, uncle, forgive me."

Gu Jin Nian said, and then sat down.

However, indeed some people were disappointed; they had indeed been looking forward to Gu Jin Nian composing a poem.

Now that this segment is missing, interest vanished all at once.

"Since Jin Nian has no preparation, I wonder if the Holy Grandson could compose a poem for this prince's new building?"

The Prince of Yu continued speaking, asking the Holy Grandson.

If Kong Yu also cannot, then we will ask everyone else; if they all say no, then we will let my son-in-law try.

Upon hearing this, Kong Yu's heart stirred with excitement; in fact, when Gu Jin Nian said he had no preparation, Kong Yu's heart blossomed with joy.

But at this moment, he knew he must restrain himself.

"Replying to the Prince."

"This new building is luxurious and magnificent; if I were to compose a poem, I could not describe its splendor, so I, the junior, wish to write a piece, but an impromptu composition might be rough, so I need a little more time—half an hour."

Kong Yu spoke; he wanted to pretend but dared not, fearing that showing too much enthusiasm would be noticed by everyone, yet he also did not want to say he could not, like Gu Jin Nian, for fear of losing face.

After saying that, everyone actually understood: he was prepared, but was yielding out of courtesy.

In an instant, the Prince of Yu felt helpless, but as if he had already known, he quickly relaxed and still smiled on the surface.

"Holy Grandson lives up to the title; you already have some insight, half an hour, right? This prince is willing to wait a moment or two."

"What do you all think?"

The Prince of Yu spoke with a smile.

He went along with the other's meaning, while also asking the crowd.

"If the Holy Grandson composes a piece, it will surely be excellent; perhaps it could become a timeless poem."

"Yes, the Holy Grandson's talent is evident to us all; every word will surely be a pearl."

"We anticipate the Holy Grandson's writing will push today's feast to the utmost splendor."

"The Holy Grandson's writing—I, an old man, have seen it; it is indeed excellent, but compared to someone who casually produces timeless works, the gap is still too great. It's a pity not to give the Prince face; otherwise I could personally witness the marvel of timeless poetry."

The crowd echoed, laughing as they spoke, but also some slightly sarcastic voices sounded.

When that voice sounded, the scene became slightly awkward; some could only give a dry laugh, pretending not to hear.

And that voice sounded.

The Prince of Yu also couldn't help but frown slightly.

He looked over; it was an old man, a scholar who had previously had some conflict with Gu Jin Nian.

This person is ill—not just the Prince of Yu thinks so; many think he is ill. Gu Jin Nian doesn't say anything, and he doesn't compose poetry either, yet you insist on coming out to be disgusting? Are you really just mouthy? "In the Da Xia Dynasty, when it comes to literature, the Heir Apparent is number one."

"Kong Yu does have some literary talent, but compared to the Heir Apparent, he is indeed average. Prince, why not also give the Heir Apparent a little time to compose first, so as to avoid embarrassing everyone?"

At this moment, Kong Ping's voice sounded; these words were not sarcastic, but meant to smooth things over, praising Gu Jin Nian and also suppressing Kong Yu's joy.

Putting on an act cannot be so stiff; it needs to be smooth, and Kong Yu still fails at this.

Moreover, there is another point: he also cannot be sure whether Gu Jin Nian actually prepared or not.

If he truly hasn't, then everything is easy to say.

But if he actually has, then it would be somewhat awkward.

Indeed, this remark served to awaken everyone.

Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian say he had no preparation, everyone eagerly wanted to bring out their own writings.

But what if Gu Jin Nian is just being modest?

After everyone finishes reciting their poems, songs, and rhapsodies, if Gu Jin Nian then produces a peerless article, wouldn't that be embarrassing? Faced with those who flatter to kill and the gazes of the crowd.

Before the jade table.

This time, Gu Jin Nian did not rise.

Instead, he poured a cup of wine and slowly spoke.

"The Heir indeed has no preparation."

"If speaking of impromptu, there is no idea at the moment."

Gu Jin Nian answered truthfully.

Not having is just not having.

"Heir Apparent, you are being modest; your writings shake ancient and modern, your poetry shocks the poetry world; if you do not speak, who would dare to show off their skills before you?"

That voice sounded again; it was the scholar who had previously clashed with him.

However, perhaps because the Prince of Yu is present, the other did not directly mock, but instead flattered to kill here.

Sip by sip, shaking ancient and modern.

Sip by sip, shocking the poetry world.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian had another cup of wine, then immediately raised his head and looked toward the other.

"You may be a bit foolish, but what you say is indeed the truth."

"The Heir's writings indeed shake ancient and modern, giving the world five hundred years of splendor, yet still cannot catch up to the Heir."

After Gu Jin Nian downed a cup of wine, his gaze was full of confidence and arrogance.

Although that old thing is flattering him to kill, Gu Jin Nian really does admit that statement.

Disgusting yourself, right?

Just go back yourself, you disgusting one.

When those words were spoken, the hall instantly erupted in a clamor.

That tone is too arrogant.

Give the people of the world five hundred years of prime, and they still can't catch up to him?

That really is a bit arrogant.

I know you, Gu Jin Nian, are strong in poetry and prose, seemingly timeless, but there's no need to be so exaggerated, right? Five hundred years can't catch up to you?

In an instant, ninety percent of the guests at the feast were displeased; aside from those already harboring grievances against Gu Jin Nian, the rest were dissatisfied with that remark, calling it too presumptuous.

Even the Royal Prince of Yu felt some discontent.

One can be arrogant, one can be angry, but you can't say it like that.

Even if Gu Jin Nian says that even giving this guy five hundred years still wouldn't let him catch up to Gu Jin Nian, everyone could accept it.

You say, "Give the people of the world five hundred years, they still can't catch up to you?" That's a bit too arrogant, right? "Hahaha."

"Fine, fine, I've heard the Crown Prince is arrogant and presumptuous; seeing him today, it truly lives up to the rumors."

The other party laughed heartily, then slammed the wine cup onto the table, looked at Gu Jin Nian, and instantly restrained his smile, saying.

"Then please, Crown Prince, compose a piece of prose; I want to see what talent you truly possess."

"How dare you speak so shamelessly, claiming that even a five‑hundred‑year chase by the people of the world can't catch up to the Crown Prince."

"Are the timeless classics of past and present now scarce? Crown Prince, even a saint wouldn't dare utter such words."

The old scholar spoke, looking at Gu Jin Nian as he said.

"You ask this Crown Prince to compose, and this Crown Prince complies? Who do you think you are, blustering shamelessly here?"

Gu Jin Nian stared at the other, needle to wheat awn.

"I indeed am nothing, nowhere near the Crown Prince, who is of noble birth and stands apart."

"But no matter what I am, I will never be as arrogant as the Crown Prince."

"These saintly texts, the Crown Prince probably hasn't even read a single one, right?"

"I've heard the Crown Prince still seeks enlightenment; from his demeanor, what he has realized is nothing but contempt for others."

The latter spoke, showing no fear of Gu Jin Nian.

"I'm just puzzled."

"Speaking arrogantly, staying silent arrogantly—I've thought for a long time, where is the madness? Is it merely disagreeing with you, then it's arrogance?"

"If it doesn't suit you, it's arrogance?"

"You corrupt scholars, why don't you just die?"

"Fortunately, my nephew will eventually ascend the throne; once he becomes the Da Xia emperor, I, the Crown Prince, will have him issue an edict dismissing all pretentious scholars and corrupt Confucians, stripping them of titles and sending them to the countryside to farm."

Gu Jin Nian took another sip of wine; he was carefree and too lazy to argue with such people.

The more you spray at him, the stronger he gets.

"Enough."

At that moment, the Royal Prince of Yu's voice rang out, expressing some displeasure toward both, but mainly toward the old scholar.

A fine feast, yet it has to turn into this; can't we wait until my son‑in‑law finishes bragging before arguing?

"At this feast, I, the Prince, hope everyone is more lively, not like this. Mr. Le, as a famous scholar, your conduct is somewhat improper, right?"

The Royal Prince of Yu spoke, looking at the other and saying.

The latter did not complain, but rose and said.

"Your Highness."

"I am naturally outspoken; when I see something unsavory, I speak plainly. Disturbing the Prince's mood is my fault."

"Going forward I will atone to the Prince, but at this feast, with such arrogant fellows, I cannot endure nor stay. I take my leave now; I hope the Prince will not hold it against me."

Le Ru spoke, chastised by the Prince; his heart was displeased, yet he knew the Prince was also caught in the middle, making it hard to act.

He simply left, keeping himself clean.

He rose, and soon several figures also got up in succession.

"Your Highness, we also do not wish to stay here long; with such arrogant people, we cannot bear it."

"Your Highness, we take our leave."

"Your Highness, forgive us."

In an instant, seven or eight figures stood up, triggering a chain reaction; some younger scholars also rose, though most chose to remain.

But in that moment, a dozen or so left, truly making the banquet somewhat awkward and cold.

At that moment, the Prince's complexion grew increasingly grim.

These people are completely giving me no face.

"Stop."

At that instant.

A voice rang out.

However, it was not the Prince's voice.

It was Gu Jin Nian's voice.

As Gu Jin Nian's voice sounded, the people instantly halted, turning to look at him, awaiting his words.

Now.

Gu Jin Nian stood, lifted his wine flask, poured himself a cup, then drank it in one smooth swallow.

"Crown Prince, what business do you have? Do you intend to impeach me? Or to imprison me?"

Le Ru spoke, unafraid of Gu Jin Nian, still mocking him even now.

"Just now didn't you say that this Crown Prince is arrogant?"

"Then the Crown Prince will write an article for you to look at, to see whether my words just now were indeed arrogant."

"I wonder whether you all dare to leave a remark?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

His expression was utterly calm.

On his exceedingly handsome face, at this moment, there was an unprecedented seriousness and solemnity.

In an instant, everyone's hearts tightened involuntarily.

To be honest, they really didn't want to provoke Gu Jin Nian; after finally getting a chance to show off, now they've forced Gu Jin Nian into this situation?

Are you ill? Must you pick a fight with Gu Jin Nian? "Oh? I actually want to see what kind of article the Crown Prince will produce."

However, Le Ru still seemed unaware of the seriousness of the problem, and kept speaking coldly.

As Le Ru spoke.

Gu Jin Nian also stopped pretending.

Just being quietly honest for a moment, and you still have to cause trouble, right?

Fine.

Open your eyes a little wider.

"The brush and ink await."

Gu Jin Nian gulped the fine wine from the flask; the wine slid down his throat, and a rush of alcohol quickly surged.

In that moment, everyone turned their gaze toward Gu Jin Nian.

Some were hopeful.

Some were worried.

Some were anticipating.

Hoping Gu Jin Nian would produce what kind of poetry.

Worried that Gu Jin Nian would produce a poem for the ages.

Anticipating Gu Jin Nian's article to be just average.

In short, all kinds of emotions were present.

At this moment, a servant of the Wang Mansion immediately brought the four treasures of the study.

Beside them, Yan Gong rose at once, personally grinding ink for Gu Jin Nian, and Scholar Meng, being clever, also stood up to hand Gu Jin Nian the scroll.

The two Great Scholars attended, truly making a grand display.

At this time, everyone watched this scene.

The crowd rose one after another, fearing they'd miss it.

After all, Gu Jin Nian is famed as the exiled immortal of the poetry world.

Staring at the blank paper.

Gu Jin Nian closed his eyes.

In his mind, the piece already existed; rather than calling it an article, it was more of a parallel prose.

Yes.

The Preface to the Prince of Teng's Pavilion, hailed as the greatest parallel prose of all ages.

At first, Gu Jin Nian hadn't expected his thoughts to be constrained, thinking of writing poetry.

Only when Kong Yu spoke did Gu Jin Nian recall this parallel prose.

Now, with his eyes closed, Gu Jin Nian recited in his mind once more this article that countless later generations revere as the foremost parallel prose.

The Preface to the Prince of Teng's Pavilion.

A single piece enough to astonish an entire era of parallel prose.

One article that suppresses ten thousand ages is not an exaggeration.

Thinking of this.

Gu Jin Nian opened his eyes.

With a wolf‑hair brush in hand, dabbed with a touch of ink, the article appeared the next moment.

"The former county of Yuzhang, the new prefecture of Hongdu. The stars divide the wings and axes, the land adjoins Henglu. Embracing the three rivers and girding the five lakes, controlling the barbarian Jing and drawing in Ou and Yue. The bounty of nature and heavenly treasures, the dragon light shines upon the ruins of the Ox and Dipper;"

The text materialized, further drawing everyone's gaze.

When the characters appeared, in an instant golden light radiated from the scroll.

This was a phenomenon worth a thousand gold per character.

When the very first character already produced such a phenomenon, it meant this article was destined to astonish the world.

At this very moment, in the great hall, everyone held their breath.

"The elegant reputation of Governor Yan Gong, with his ceremonial halberd looming afar; the refined example of Yuwen Xinzhou, his banner briefly stationed. Ten weeks of leave, companions abundant as clouds;"

"Welcoming from a thousand miles, distinguished guests fill the seats. Soaring dragons and rising phoenixes, the poetic lineage of Scholar Meng; violet lightning and azure frost, the armory of General Wang. My father serves as magistrate, the road leads to famed districts; what does a child know, yet personally encountering a splendid farewell."

Gu Jin Nian's writing shone, his brushstroke as if guided by a deity.

From the start it attracted countless gazes, but now, everyone present couldn't help but gasp and turn pale.

It wasn't simply because it was well written.

But because Gu Jin Nian was truly composing an impromptu fu.

The elegant reputation of Governor Yan Gong, the poetic lineage of Scholar Meng, the armory of General Wang.

Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, and General Wang were all present, only General Wang sat at the front, initially greeting Gu Jin Nian, merely an acquaintance.

Yan Gong, Scholar Meng, and General Wang were on the guest list, but their presence hadn't been disclosed in advance; especially Scholar Meng, who originally wasn't coming, but arrived later after handling some matters, thus coming at the last minute.

This cannot be faked.

Moreover, if Gu Jin Nian had written this essay in advance, how could one guarantee that Yan Gong and Scholar Meng would be so courteous to him?

If it were an enemy, wouldn't this essay be embarrassing? Composing a fu is not scary.

What's scary is that it comes extemporaneously.

At this moment, Scholar Meng and Yan Gong were so excited they could not speak.

They never expected that Gu Jin Nian would actually write them into it, and in such high praise.

As a scholar, who doesn't enjoy being praised by others? Especially when it's written in poetry and prose.

If this essay could be famous for a thousand ages, that would simply be a great joy.

Both being Great Scholars, yet at this moment they could not sit still.

Not only them, but the rest of the people were also filled with envy.

But the people's shock remains just shock.

Yet Gu Jin Nian's essay only grew faster and smoother as he wrote.

【Facing the Imperial Son's Long Isle, obtaining the old mansion of heaven and man. Layered peaks rise verdant, reaching above the double heavens; flying pavilions flow cinnabar, overlooking the bottomless abyss.】

【Opening embroidered gates, looking down upon carved beams, mountains and plains vast to the sight, rivers and marshes winding to the gaze; hamlets lie on the ground, homes where bells ring and cauldrons feed.】

【Boats and ships fill the ford, the prow adorned with azure sparrow and yellow dragon. Clouds dissipate, rain clears, colors pierce the clear.】

The essay is exquisite and beautiful, its language splendid to the extreme; the crowd is deeply shaken.

They went to understand the essay's meaning; the former Imperial Son's Long Isle— they discovered this tower.

Here the mountains overlap, verdant peaks pierce the clouds; lofty pavilions, red corridors as if flying in the sky, from the pavilion one sees no ground.

Merely these sixteen characters— 'Layered peaks rise verdant, reaching above the double heavens; flying pavilions flow cinnabar, overlooking the bottomless abyss'— yet they sketch the beauty of this place.

Looking not far off, a great river flows, its crossing packed with boats and ships, all large vessels carved with azure sparrow and yellow dragon patterns.

Just then, after the rain cleared and the clouds dispersed, the sunlight was warm and bright.

The crowd immersed themselves in this literary beauty.

Gu Jin Nian, however, suddenly stopped his brush.

He slowly came to the center of the hall, turning his gaze toward the outside of the pavilion.

Everyone turned their gaze to Gu Jin Nian.

They were curious, doubtful, and above all, itchy with anticipation.

They hoped Gu Jin Nian would continue writing.

"Please, Scholar Meng, hold the brush for me."

Suddenly, Gu Jin Nian spoke, gazing at the outside scenery, saying thus.

"Good."

Scholar Meng had no idle talk, directly took up the brush; he was somewhat excited, worried he would write poorly and mar this parallel prose.

Just then.

When he saw the setting sun, Gu Jin Nian also became immersed in that beautiful scene, and immediately spoke aloud.

【Lone crane flies with the setting sun, autumn waters share one hue with the vast sky. Fishing boats sing as dusk falls, echoing the shore of Pengli; geese startle the cold, their cries cut off at the bank of South of Mount Heng.】

He spoke aloud, smoothly and freely, reciting these classic lines.

This line.

How far has it been transmitted, if not a thousand years?

This line.

Let this parallel prose be enshrined as divine.

Lone crane flies with the setting sun.

Autumn waters share one hue with the vast sky.

Such beautiful scenery.

Being vividly written into poetry and prose by someone.

Closing his eyes, Gu Jin Nian seemed to cross time and space, arriving at another place.

He seemed to see that spirited youth.

He seemed to see the one acclaimed as the world's greatest genius, Wang Bo.

He saw.

He saw Wang Bo lowering his brush in Prince Teng's Pavilion.

He saw.

He saw the hall filled with dread and astonishment, everyone revealing looks of disbelief.

A meeting across a thousand years.

This gave Gu Jin Nian a deeper understanding of this parallel prose.

Afterward, Gu Jin Nian continued to speak.

Every word a pearl.

Every sound shakes the heart.

Each word he spoke formed a picture.

Each sentence he spoke made one feel what learning is, what talent is.

Scholar Meng put brush to paper, each stroke especially conscientious.

Afraid of making even the slightest mistake.

This was the most tense moment in his life since becoming a Great Scholar.

How many years have passed.

How many years have passed.

How many years has it been since he was like this.

Everyone was stunned.

The afterglow and the lone gull fly together.

The autumn water and the boundless sky are one color.

Fourteen characters that depict the supreme beauty of the mortal world.

Write the supreme realm of the mortal world!

They were thoroughly impressed.

They were completely speechless.

Such talent has never existed across the ages.

Soon, Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out again.

His voice also gradually rose in fervor.

The crane that darts among the beams and the sea bends—does it lack a luminous era? It relies on the gentleman who perceives opportunity, and the sage who understands destiny.

Old age only strengthens resolve; would one change the heart of white hair? Poverty only hardens the will; do not let the ambition to reach the azure clouds fall.

When these words were spoken.

In that moment, many Great Scholars present erupted in excited applause.

"Well, what a poor yet steadfast resolve, never abandoning the ambition to soar to the clouds."

"Well, such an unfallen ambition to soar to the clouds!"

These words resonated with them profoundly.

Though advanced in years, one should be even more ambitious, and should not let aging cause one's spirit to falter.

One must not lack the ambition to reach the clouds.

The splendor of former years should still remain today.

Gu Jin Nian was undisturbed, and he continued reciting.

Until the very end.

He stepped outside alone, leaned on the wooden railing, and then spoke slowly.

The Royal Prince of Yu's lofty pavilion overlooks the river islet, jade ornaments ringing like phoenix cries, ending song and dance.

Painted beams soar at dawn over the southern harbor clouds, pearl curtains roll at dusk with rain from the western mountains.

Leisurely clouds, pool reflections, the sun drifts slowly; things change, stars shift, how many autumns have passed.

Where is the imperial son in the pavilion now? Beyond the railing, the Yangtze flows empty.

In the end, Gu Jin Nian even composed the final poem and prose.

These are the verses Wang Bo added at the time to prove himself.

Gu Jin Nian need not prove whether this poem is his.

Heaven's Mandate exists in this world.

There is no need to worry about anyone accusing him of plagiarism.

Although it is a public plagiarism, at this moment Gu Jin Nian perceives the beauty of this parallel prose.

The parallel prose concludes.

Gu Jin Nian gazed at the rolling rivers.

Gazing at the horizon.

The beauty of the afterglow.

Look.

Above the sky, a line of lone gulls beat their wings together.

Listen.

The roaring of the rolling rivers.

A gentle clear breeze blows.

Like my spirit.

Fiercely soaring.

Scaling the Dragon Gate and leaping, composing verses upon the towers.

The voice of past and present still remains; in later years it will be praised for ages.

When the parallel prose concludes.

Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath.

Then, his gaze instantly fixed on Le Ru and the others.

His voice was utterly calm.

"Give the world five hundred years."

"Can one surpass this text?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

His voice was not loud.

Yet it reached everyone's ears.

Five hundred years.

Ask the world, who dares to surpass?

And in an instant.

As Scholar Meng writes the last character.

At the edge of the heavens.

The golden sun quivers.

An ancient parallel prose comes into being.

And within the Confucian Temple.

A strange phenomenon reappears.

There is still one more watch today.

(End of chapter)