Chapter 88: Is war about to break out

Da Xia Academy.

Gu Jin Nian looked at Su Wenjing, feeling curious.

"Please, sir, instruct me."

Although I didn't know exactly what Su Wenjing wanted to say, his seriousness and solemnity left me no choice but to humbly ask for his guidance.

"Jin Nian."

"You have displayed peerless talent today; even I, an old man, am deeply shocked."

"In poetry, you could be the best under heaven, but you must remember that the Confucian Way requires more than just poetry."

"Nor is it merely the study of the classics."

"It is the Three Immortalities."

Su Wenjing spoke seriously, proposing the Three Immortalities.

Gu Jin Nian listened, then fell silent.

He knew of the Three Immortalities.

Establishing virtue, establishing merit, establishing words.

This is the sage's Three Immortalities.

Achieving these three makes one a sage, even if not born as one.

But realizing these three is extremely difficult; none of them is easy.

Establishing virtue means lifelong moral excellence; it's not just empty talk. When one seeks to establish virtue, one must constantly remind oneself what may be done and what may not, for the sage's framework will bind you.

Thus, Gu Jin Nian will not consider establishing virtue for now—not because he lacks virtue, but because it is too distant; he hasn't even thought clearly about his future path, so establishing virtue is out of the question.

Confucian learning is vast, but only by choosing the path one wishes to follow can one establish virtue.

Establishing merit is fine; even if no one urges him, Gu Jin Nian will do it.

To establish immortal service for the state also benefits oneself—expanding borders, quelling rebellions, redressing the people's grievances—all count as establishing merit, differing only in scale.

As for establishing words,

This point is truly terrifying: establishing words is not just shouting a few slogans, "I want to do this, that, and the other."

True establishment of words is to create new scholarship, expound the true Zen meaning, and bring new change to Confucianism.

That is establishing words.

Establish scholarship.

As for the Confucian third realm of establishing words, it is not the Three Immortalities' establishing words, but rather establishing the words of study; the two must not be conflated.

Regarding establishing words, Gu Jin Nian also has some ideas, but his present self is not yet suited for true establishment of words.

Those without fame and achievement cannot establish words.

The reason is simple: without fame and influence, even if you establish scholarship, who will listen? Only with sufficient influence can you establish scholarship; otherwise it's just a laughingstock.

Precisely for this reason, the Heaven's Mandate sages instituted Confucian rites, letting scholars worldwide become officials and spread their ideas through influence.

"Sir, the Three Immortalities are still too distant for me."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; he understood Su Wenjing's meaning, but he also saw reality clearly.

Before Gu Jin Nian could continue, Su Wenjing shook his head, looked at him, and said,

"Jin Nian, do you know why becoming a sage is difficult?"

Su Wenjing spoke, asking thus.

"Replying, sir, I do not know."

Gu Jin Nian answered earnestly.

"It's because everyone says becoming a sage is hard, telling you to focus on the present, step by step, not to aim too high."

"But the more one does that, the more excuses one finds for oneself."

"It's merely feeling that becoming a sage is hard, thinking one cannot achieve it, and not wanting to bear such great pressure."

"Regardless of whether becoming a sage is difficult, the fact that someone in this world has become a sage shows it can be done."

"Jin Nian, if you aspire to become a sage, you must start tomorrow and seriously contemplate the Three Immortalities."

"When you raise your head, your eyes will no longer see the myriad things of the world, but the sage's position."

"Do you understand?"

Su Wenjing's voice rang like a great bell, trembling in Gu Jin Nian's mind.

Su Wenjing's words were truly pearls of wisdom.

Why do I know that becoming a sage is difficult?

Because everyone tells oneself that becoming a sage is very difficult, harder than climbing to heaven.

When people face difficulties, their first reaction is to avoid them; if avoidance is impossible, they try to reduce the difficulty.

Scholars worldwide tend to choose the latter; why? It's called breaking the goal into stages—complete a part today, another part tomorrow.

But in practice, the more one does this, the less likely one is to succeed.

It's like quitting smoking: starting tomorrow, one cannot quit cold turkey, so one reduces gradually.

Nine out of ten who do this fail.

Especially when it comes to becoming a sage.

One must achieve it in one go.

Do not harbor any delusions.

Only under immense pressure will one break free from the cocoon and ascend all the way, never relenting.

"Jin Nian."

"Now, before you lie only two paths to choose."

Just like the myriad beings of the world.

Or perhaps, face difficulties head‑on, with great wisdom and great perseverance, directly reach the sage's position.

Today you have composed four poems, and moreover you have the courage to expound different meanings of the classics; I, the old man, believe you have the qualifications and the ability to become a sage.

And all of this, everything, lies only in your choice.

Jin Nian, I am not now letting you make a choice right now.

But you need to have a thought; from now on you must think it through and understand it clearly.

Su Wenjing is not having Gu Jin Nian set a goal right now, but hopes that Gu Jin Nian will start thinking about this matter from now on.

Otherwise, by the time you want to do it, it will already be too late.

Sir, thank you for your instruction; I, the student, have understood.

Gu Jin Nian nodded; he had an idea in his heart, but everyone has their own judgment ability.

It is impossible that, just because Su Wenjing said that, Gu Jin Nian would immediately go set a goal.

One still needs something to inspire oneself.

At this moment, Su Wenjing continued speaking.

Regarding the matter of Heaven's Mandate, I, the old man, will tell you thoroughly today.

Su Wenjing spoke, saying the second matter.

Good.

Gu Jin Nian replied.

Jin Nian, do you know the theory of Heaven's Mandate?

Su Wenjing spoke.

I know.

It is recorded in books that between heaven and earth, every five hundred years a Heaven's Mandate is born; if one possesses the Mandate, they can step into the eighth realm.

Confucians become sages, Daoists become immortals, Buddhists become buddhas, demons become dragons, devils bring chaos to the world.

Gu Jin Nian slowly opened his mouth, answering the theory of Heaven's Mandate.

In the Divine Land world, there is the theory of Heaven's Mandate; any system has only seven realms, and these seven realms are within the normal range; generally speaking, the seventh realm is already considered the limit.

But to step into the eighth realm, one must obtain the approval of Heaven's Mandate.

If one lacks the approval of Heaven's Mandate, take Gu Jin Nian for example; people say he has the makings of a sage, but that sage‑making refers not to a Heaven's Mandate sage, but to a Confucian‑Dao sage.

There have only been four Heaven's Mandate sages throughout history.

Those who become sages by obtaining Heaven's Mandate are of great significance; they probably possess inconceivable power.

Mm, a Heaven's Mandate sage is the supreme realm of the Confucian‑Dao; if one becomes a Heaven's Mandate sage, a single word can destroy a nation.

Su Wenjing spoke, feeling somewhat moved.

One word can destroy a nation?

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian clicked his tongue; this is somewhat terrifying, right?

No, it's not terrifying; it's somewhat frightening, right?

A Heaven's Mandate sage, approved by heaven and earth, can reach the heavenly hearing; for example, the Xiongnu state—if you, Jin Nian, became a Heaven's Mandate sage, you would think the Xiongnu state's actions are overly brutal; you need only speak, and your words will become law, bringing down a catastrophic disaster upon the Xiongnu state.

Su Wenjing spoke lightly, appearing utterly calm.

But as soon as these words were spoken, Gu Jin Nian was utterly shocked.

Words become law.

One word destroys a nation?

If one had such ability, would one still need to worry about this and that? Why wasn't this said earlier? To be frank, Gu Jin Nian still knows little about the Confucian‑Dao; mainly because no one has told him, and moreover most books on the market talk about how Confucian‑Dao cultivates the vast righteous qi; who has said how strong the Confucian‑Dao is? Just like when I previously asked Confucius, I deliberately asked whether one could engage in verbal sparring, use poetry to kill enemies? The answer I got was to let me read fewer miscellaneous books.

Mr. Su Wenjing, I, the student, currently have one Heaven's Mandate; does that mean that if I become a Confucian‑Dao sage, I would be a Heaven's Mandate sage?

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, asking thus.

No.

Su Wenjing shook his head.

Possessing the Heaven's Mandate only means you have the qualification to contend for a Heaven's Mandate sage.

Moreover, this Heaven's Mandate is different from before; this is a Heaven's Mandate flourishing age, and between heaven and earth many heaven‑chosen prodigies will appear.

The Great Jin Dynasty, the Da Xia Dynasty, the Fuyu Dynasty, and also the Zhongzhou Dynasty—these places all have Heaven's Mandate blessings, and your rivals will become ever stronger.

Moreover, with so many heaven‑chosen prodigies, only one person can stand out and become the Heaven's Mandate bearer.

The Confucian‑Dao has an advantage, but that's all we can say; the Immortal Dao, Buddhist gate, Demon path, and Confucian‑Dao will all vie for this Heaven's Mandate, so it is not necessarily only Confucian‑Dao scholars who can obtain it.

So, you must now begin to contend for the Heaven's Mandate.

Su Wenjing spoke, informing Gu Jin Nian to begin contending for the Heaven's Mandate.

Contend?

Sir, this?

It's not that Gu Jin Nian lacks courage; rather, contending for such a thing easily brings trouble, and I currently lack foundation.

Jin Nian.

You must remember, there are forty‑nine Heaven's Mandates; whoever occupies the most will, at the crucial moment, have the greatest advantage.

The Heaven's Mandate chooses you; likewise, it can also leave you.

If you do not contend, the Heaven's Mandate will automatically depart, which is better.

But you have ambition; you are not someone who avoids contention, so in the future you will face one enemy after another, who will come to seize your Heaven's Mandate.

These are still manageable, after all losing does not mean death; with your talent, the Da Xia Dynasty's nine Heaven's Mandates—perhaps you need to occupy half of them.

At that time, even if you do not want to contend, it will be useless; if someone becomes the Heaven's Mandate bearer, they will inevitably take all the Heaven's Mandates.

"If you lose the Heaven's Mandate, you will be utterly defeated, perhaps even lose your life; this path allows only one person to reach the end."

"There is no talk of benevolence or righteousness."

"Jin Nian, now it is no longer a matter of whether you want to or not, but whether others are willing."

Su Wenjing warned.

He explained the entire Heaven's Mandate contest.

Gu Jin Nian fell silent.

He truly hadn't expected the Heaven's Mandate contest to be so terrifying.

It involved so many matters.

It is no longer about whether one is willing or wants to fight.

Once you step into the Heaven's Mandate contest, you cannot refuse to fight.

"Student, I understand."

"But may I ask, sir, why does the Da Xia Poetry Society involve the Heaven's Mandate?"

Gu Jin Nian nodded, having an idea in his heart, and also curious why the Da Xia Poetry Society would involve the Heaven's Mandate.

"The Da Xia Dynasty has nine Heaven's Mandates; you, I, and Su Huaiyu each have three, there are three National Destiny Mandates, and the academy has three, and those three academy Mandates are not shared among Da Xia scholars."

"Instead, those three are granted only to Da Xia's most outstanding individuals; the Da Xia Poetry Society is one of the grandest ceremonies, and the heavens and earth respond, naturally producing the Heaven's Mandate."

"Even the three National Destiny Mandates can be obtained; you only need to achieve merit, serve the country, and redress the people's grievances, and you will receive the Heaven's Mandate."

"That is why I require you to attend the Da Xia Poetry Society."

Su Wenjing gave his answer.

Forty-nine Heaven's Mandates, most have merged into the courts of various nations and academies, but in reality they are waiting, waiting for a fated individual.

"Understood."

Gu Jin Nian understood.

"In fact, the last time you redressed the people's grievances, you should have earned a National Heaven's Mandate, but you lack official merit and some timing; if you continue to do real deeds for the Da Xia people, I believe the next Mandate will be yours."

"By calculation, you alone hold three Mandates, already leading the crowd."

"But know that beyond every mountain there is a higher one, beyond every person there is someone greater; in any case, do not become too arrogant."

Su Wenjing spoke slowly.

"I only have one Mandate."

Gu Jin Nian pretended to be clueless.

"Grandfather Gu has one; it won't be yours sooner or later?"

Su Wenjing did not expose him, only gave a faint smile.

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but laugh; chatting with a clever person is enjoyable.

"Jin Nian, I have fully fulfilled this wager, as promised."

"Do you wish to make another wager with me?"

Soon, Su Wenjing smiled and asked Gu Jin Nian whether he wanted another wager.

"A student of noble character never gambles; a small bet amuses, a large bet harms, and I have long stood opposed to gambling and drugs."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head.

Because for some unknown reason, he felt Su Wenjing was digging a trap.

Although Su Wenjing did not know what Gu Jin Nian was saying, he still smiled faintly.

"What if the wager is the Heaven's Mandate within my body?"

Su Wenjing laughed.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian immediately performed a bow.

"Sir, what wager?"

Since you know the Heaven's Mandate contest, you should certainly seek more; regardless of the result, an extra Mandate is still a Mandate.

"Before graduation, accomplish Establishing Speech."

Su Wenjing laughed.

"Establishing Speech before graduation?"

Counting from now, the term started over a month ago, so there are about ten months left for one to Establish Speech.

Not a big problem.

"Sir, Establishing Speech is not a problem, but what kind? The third realm of Confucianism/Taoism, or founding a New Learning?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, asking Su Wenjing.

Upon hearing that, Su Wenjing couldn't help but frown slightly, looking at Gu Jin Nian.

Feeling Su Wenjing's gaze, Gu Jin Nian was momentarily stunned, then quickly lowered his head, avoiding eye contact.

It's over, I've shown my hand.

"Jin Nian, do you truly have a New Learning?"

Su Wenjing's expression instantly became extremely shocked.

Normally, hearing "Establishing Speech" implies the third realm, so Gu Jin Nian's question about which kind is odd.

Especially since Gu Jin Nian's eyes showed no trace of bitterness; if one were requesting to found a New Learning, a normal person would show a hint of sorrow.

But Gu Jin Nian was merely asking, full of curiosity, giving the impression that whatever it is, he could accomplish, but he needed to be told what it is.

"No, sir, I have just become a scholar; how could I have a New Learning?"

Gu Jin Nian denied.

He joked that he does have a New Learning in mind, but cannot reveal it now; his status is insufficient, and revealing it would likely cause more trouble.

Anyway, it's a lot of trouble, a lot of trouble.

Any scholarship that has endured until now has undergone countless temperings and repeated hammerings; the scholarship that remains is almost beyond reproach.

Thus countless students are born, steadfast in their own scholarship.

But if New Learning emerges, it inevitably drags in scholarly disputes, and then the whole world would be in turmoil—not to mention the Da Xia Dynasty.

Then you can't expect peace; it's all arguments all day.

"I truly suspect now whether the water of the Wenxin Study possesses spirit. It's a pity, the water of the Wenxin Study has long been taken by the common folk; we should take a portion and examine it closely."

"You really are a monster."

Seeing Gu Jin Nian's reaction, Su Wenjing became even more certain that Gu Jin Nian harbored ideas of New Learning, yet Gu Jin Nian was cautious, which was quite commendable.

Nevertheless, he couldn't help but think about the water of the Wenxin Study.

"Ah, this."

Gu Jin Nian didn't know how to answer, but he couldn't keep dragging the topic.

"Enough."

"The third stage of Confucian Dao is sufficient, about ten months left; don't disappoint me."

"Also, Jin Nian, stay in the Academy these days; skip the Da Xia Poetry Assembly. Heaven's Mandate is already attained, your name is probably already renowned across the world; no need to go."

Su Wenjing spoke, saying so.

"May I not go?"

Gu Jin Nian was curious; the Da Xia Poetry Assembly lasts three days, this is only the first day—can I skip the rest?

"It's an edict from His Majesty."

"If you go again, where will the faces of talented scholars from other nations go? Though you aim for first place, you should give others some chance, right?"

"On the way back, news arrived that many talented scholars from various countries have withdrawn; isn't competing with you in poetry a disgrace?"

Su Wenjing couldn't help but smile wryly as he spoke.

The words were true; while traveling, someone came to inform him that scholars from all nations chose to withdraw.

Why?

There's no comparison; if Gu Jin Nian keeps competing, they look shameful—any poem he writes becomes a timeless classic. What's the point of playing this game?

"Fine."

"If you still need it, the student can come at any time."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

Since he already took first place, what needed to be done is done; not going is fine, and he can peacefully harvest fruit and comprehend the Dao.

Of course, if my presence is still required, it's not impossible; the only reason not to go is the sheer volume of poems.

"Alright, return early to rest."

Su Wenjing said no more, letting Gu Jin Nian return early to rest.

Soon.

After Gu Jin Nian left, Su Wenjing let out a long sigh, gazing at Gu Jin Nian's silhouette, murmuring.

"My disciple is truly remarkable."

When Gu Jin Nian was completely gone, Su Wenjing couldn't help but laugh out loud.

A laugh: those of the immortal sect lack wisdom; those close to the water tower get the moon first. Such talent—sooner or later, isn't he my disciple? A second laugh: the world's Great Scholars are foolish; with such talent, why still need to support the Kong family? How much does Gu Jin Nian surpass the Kong family?

A third laugh: I truly am lucky; at this age, I happened to meet Gu Jin Nian—this is a tale for the ages, a tale for the ages.

Su Wenjing stood on the cliff, laughing heartily.

Meanwhile.

Inside Da Xia Capital.

It was already late night,

The matter of the Da Xia Poetry Assembly had already been fully spread.

Talented scholars from various nations were very depressed, all drinking to drown their gloom.

Any solution?

Gu Jin Nian wrote four timeless poems in one night, his fame shaking the world, putting immense pressure on them.

Fortunately, rumors spread that Gu Jin Nian would not take part in the upcoming assembly.

"Gu Jin Nian's actions today will surely make his name known across the world; we scholars, each of our stars dim, truly a disgrace."

The Fu Luo Talented spoke, his words full of resentment and helplessness.

"Poetry aside, he also understands the classics; truly a monster."

A new voice rose, another heart‑piercing remark.

"Hmph, such interpretation of the classics is a disgrace to the scriptures; it counts for nothing."

"Indeed, what does such interpretation amount to?"

For a moment, many voices rose, as if they had found Gu Jin Nian's sole flaw and began to attack.

But the criticism, even after a couple of blows, meant nothing.

Thus, the crowd gradually fell silent.

At the same time.

Da Xia Academy.

As the hour of Mao approached, many planned to rest for an hour or two, since tomorrow they still had to attend the grand gathering. But at that moment—

Da Xia Academy.

Inside the Yaoshi Fairy's chamber.

The Yaochi Fairy, who was sitting cross‑legged on the bed practicing, suddenly felt a heat in her bosom and quickly took out a communication jade.

In an instant, a shadow appeared before her.

It was the Linglong Palace Master.

The scene unfolded.

The Linglong Palace Master lay on the bed, draped in a sheer robe, gazing at the Yaochi Fairy.

"Disciple."

"How are things progressing?"

The Linglong Palace Master spoke lightly, her beautiful eyes falling on the Yaochi Fairy, filled with curiosity.

"Reporting, Master."

"No progress yet."

The Yaochi Fairy answered earnestly.

Upon hearing that, the Linglong Palace Master let out a sigh.

"Disciple, the matter of the Da Xia Poetry Gathering has already reached my ears."

"Gu Jin Nian has received Heaven's Mandate, destined to become an immortal, yet I, the Master, remain worried; Su Wenjing, that old fox, has taken the lead."

"Disciple, I cannot give you much time—at most six months. If within six months you cannot subdue Gu Jin Nian, then I will have to intervene personally."

The Linglong Palace Master said earnestly.

With exquisite looks, an incredibly mature aura, a supremely graceful figure, and abundant curves, she truly is a youthful assassin.

"Master, I truly do not know how to bring down Gu Jin Nian."

"The disciple has found that Gu Jin Nian harbors no ill will toward the disciple, and the disciple is not adept at negotiations."

The Yaochi Fairy spoke, admitting she is inexperienced, knows little, and especially does not understand matters of love; she dislikes being forced to speak with Gu Jin Nian.

It's not that she dislikes Gu Jin Nian, but that she dislikes speaking.

"Sigh."

"Disciple, you are clumsy in this regard."

"Just lie on his bed directly; there is a saying that men pursue women over a mountain, while women pursue men through a veil."

"If you take the initiative to lie down, how many men would refuse? Your looks and figure even make the Master envious; with such purity, can you still not subdue Gu Jin Nian?"

"If even that fails, then across the world only the Master can step in."

The Linglong Palace Master taught the Yaochi Fairy earnestly.

It's not a malicious intention; rather, the Yaochi Fairy's spiritual root is a top‑grade celestial spirit root, but it is yin. Though it can reach great attainment, it cannot become immortal without merging with a celestial spirit root to gain the essence of an immortal.

As for the physical body, what does it matter? After becoming immortal, one can forge immortal bones and body, starting anew.

"Disciple, I understand."

The Yaochi Fairy mostly comprehended; she truly cares only about becoming immortal.

At that moment, the voice of the Yaochi Palace Master continued.

"Disciple, you must seize the time; recently the Demonic Path produced a madman who is cutting people everywhere, causing great trouble."

"The madman has blocked members of the Qingwei Immortal Sect; if they arrive, you and Gu Jin Nian will have absolutely no chance."

"Her methods are no worse than the Master's; if she gets there first, you will completely lose the chance to become immortal."

"The only option is the Heaven's Mandate contest; that contest is too vast, and the Master does not wish you to take the risk."

"If it truly cannot be done, the two of us master and disciple will go together; I won't believe we can't take him down."

"Do you understand?"

"Do not hesitate; go all out."

"Go now."

The Linglong Palace Master spoke hurriedly, having received much information, especially concerning the woman of the Qingwei Immortal Sect.

That guy is truly terrifying.

If she passes through, the Yaochi will never win in this lifetime.

"Fine."

The Yaochi Fairy answered lightly; at that moment the light and shadow vanished, and the communication jade dimmed its glow.

Inside the room, the Yaochi Fairy glanced at the moonlight and then pushed open the door.

This moment.

Gu Jin Nian's quarters.

The hour of Mao is approaching.

Gu Jin Nian sat cross‑legged in the room, contemplating many matters.

Regarding today's actions, Gu Jin Nian began to review them, reflecting three times a day on himself, for progress.

At today's Da Xia Poetry Gathering, the first event was Kong Yu leaping out to criticize him.

Although he accepted the invitation, it was neither a mistake nor a lack of scheming.

The old saying is apt: if a dog bites you, must you bite back? The saying is correct, yet it also has issues.

If a dog bites oneself, one indeed cannot bite back, but striking back should be fine, right?

Bring your face over for a strike; if I don't strike you, then you truly shouldn't be in the mix—no longer Da Xia's top aristocrat, from now on you must honestly lower your head and become a grandson.

Of course, today's actions will inevitably bring a series of troubles.

The Kong family will certainly target me, activating a saint mode against me.

The method of targeting is actually simple.

It's the same as before: treat you as a saint, then begin to pick at your flaws.

You just took two breaths; that's your fault. Others take a single breath, but you insist on taking two; you have a problem.

What? You take a single breath? Then you're also at fault; even saints do not breathe, so why do you breathe?

Everyone in the world cannot escape this logic; when you target a person, you can find ten thousand reasons.

Fake saint talk.

I may not be a saint, but you must be one, because I'm looking for trouble with you. Who made you so outstanding? Since you're so outstanding, you must endure the criticism.

This is actually okay; Gu Jin Nian doesn't notice anything, it's as if a group of people are supervising himself, which actually serves as supervision: if truly wrong, correct it; if not, ignore it; if in a bad mood, just beat him up.

Gu Jin Nian's biggest worry is another matter: framing, false accusations, slandering.

"My biggest problem is that I expound the meaning of Xunzi's classics; I think the Kong Family will definitely use this to attack me."

"They say I do not respect saints, do not revere heaven and earth, and insult scholars."

"Even the lower people will spread rumors; regarding the Da Xia Poetry Society affair, any clear‑sighted person can see after reading that it's a dispute, not an insult to saints."

"But most scholars will not accept an outstanding person, especially one so young."

"Literati look down on each other; peers are rivals."

Gu Jin Nian mutters to himself; he does not think that expounding Xunzi's meaning is wrong, but that he should not have said it at this critical moment.

If it were during an academic dispute, it would leave a talking point.

By saying something unpleasant, Gu Jin Nian can now predict several ways future scholars across the world will vilify him.

Insulting saints, disrespecting saints, being unforgiving when justified, the Poetry Society being overbearing, character ruined, a fox borrowing a tiger's might.

After all, the Da Xia Poetry Society affair has probably already been scripted by someone.

During the Poetry Society, after Su Wenjing posed a question, Gu Jin Nian answered in about seven minutes, in one breath, unbelievably fast.

Everyone found it suspicious, especially the talented scholars of various nations who thought the matter problematic; although they recognized Gu Jin Nian's overflowing talent, completing it in half a quarter‑hour—how could anyone in the world achieve that?

Everyone felt resentment; the scholars of various nations thought it unfair, but since it was within the Da Xia Dynasty, they could not speak out, and moreover Gu Jin Nian is the Da Xia's top aristocrat, so no one dares to provoke him.

In the end, the Kong Family heir, upright and incorruptible, though also wary of the Gu family's power, after becoming a saint he still decided to step forward, to champion the aggrieved, raise doubts, but he spoke politely, without any overstepping, merely simple questioning.

Unexpectedly, Gu Jin Nian, incensed and embarrassed, cursed Kong Yu, and at the same time set a wager; Kong Yu did not want the dispute to escalate so much, but Gu Jin Nian insisted on establishing the wager, refusing to explain unless the wager was made.

Facing the pent‑up frustration of countless scholars, Kong Yu swallowed his pride and agreed, also presenting ten questions, each very simple—either about the bright moon or the rivers—and he did not wish the conflict to become too rigid.

No one expected that Gu Jin Nian truly possessed such talent; his poems became timeless, clearly showcasing his brilliance.

Everyone was convinced.

After realizing his mistake, Kong Yu apologized to Gu Jin Nian, even offering to visit and apologize in person, but Gu Jin Nian demanded that Kong Yu kneel.

Kong Yu was not unwilling to kneel, but as the representative of the Kong Family it was truly difficult; he was willing to give full compensation, yet Gu Jin Nian, unforgiving when justified, ultimately further insulted the saint, becoming arrogant, overbearing, and contemptuous of everyone.

Even the Da Xia Emperor favored Gu Jin Nian, so that Kong Yu ultimately knelt, and even the arrival of the Holy Ruler was of no use.

The Lord of the Nation even shouted, "Who dares to help Kong Yu, I will kill his whole family," and Gu Jin Nian went further, saying he would slaughter all false scholars in the world who do not support him.

That is roughly the whole plot.

Gu Jin Nian doesn't even need to think; it must be spread according to this plot.

If it were even more vicious, it would be said that the scholars of various nations questioned, and Kong Yu also said a line, "I will seize the right moment and directly retaliate against Kong Yu, just to trample the Kong Family."

Because of his own arrogance.

People are easily labeled; the capable are usually linked with arrogance, the incapable with laziness.

This is subtle influence.

If you add a Da Xia top aristocrat who is only sixteen, people will think, who else would be arrogant if not him? It's just like a rich heir.

When the phrase "rich heir" is mentioned, almost everyone imagines a group of plump, richly dressed youths swaggering down the road, followed by seven or eight attendants, looking at everyone as if they were dogs.

That is labeling.

People fear fame; pigs fear getting fat.

"Although it brings trouble, it's not without benefit; I myself intend to walk the path of a lone minister, offending the Gu Family is my purpose."

"If you don't offend the Gu Family, the danger lies with the Gu Family; once you offend, you offend; if you don't offend completely, the Gu Family will die."

Thus offending the Gu Family is indeed not a good thing.

However, Gu Jin Nian has a reason he must offend.

"Today's matter should be handled more cautiously; since we have acted, we must turn hostile to the end. The Kong Family will surely trouble me, so I must also cultivate some connections."

"All the students of the Academy can become my network; later when they enter the court and take posts across the land, they become my voice. If the Kong Family uses this method to attack me…"

"I can also use this method to attack them."

Gu Jin Nian began to plan his fallback, knowing that sooner or later he would have to settle scores with the Kong Family; in his view, the Kong Family's greatest strength is its ability to leverage public opinion.

The public opinion of scholars across the world.

Gu Jin Nian cannot sway scholars worldwide, but if he now properly cultivates the students of Da Xia Academy, making them his subordinates, at least he can influence Da Xia.

After all, these people will eventually become officials across the land or serve in the court; once out, they become high officials.

Talented scholars of each prefecture, commandery, and county all seek to ingratiate themselves with these officials.

Thus shaping public opinion becomes very easy.

To control the world's scholarly opinion, one must establish New Learning, recruit many disciples, have students everywhere, and thus can resist.

This road will take a long time.

In the short term, ideas may be endless, but building one's own power is certainly correct.

"We must establish a society now."

Gu Jin Nian murmurs to himself; he plans to set up a society, similar to the Tongwen Alliance.

From childhood onward, they would help each other; if a scholar fell into poverty, they would contribute silver to aid him; if trouble arose, they would use each other's influence to resolve it.

Thus, with shared interests, they become extremely united; the court also has such things.

Only it's not very obvious, since the Yongsheng Emperor strictly cracks down on faction formation.

But the Da Xia Academy is different; it can't be hit.

"A timing is needed."

"A perfect timing—seize this timing, and we can establish a new assembly; the people of the Da Xia Academy can coalesce into a single force, a force that in the future will be enough to shake the court."

Gu Jin Nian pondered in his heart.

But at that moment, a faint knocking sounded.

Gu Jin Nian instantly withdrew his thoughts.

He slightly frowned.

Someone had arrived without his noticing; that was somewhat frightening.

"Who?"

He asked aloud.

"Me."

It was the voice of the Yaochi Fairy.

This made Gu Jin Nian feel odd; why would someone come over in the dead of night?

Nevertheless, Gu Jin Nian did not think further.

He rose immediately and opened the door.

Soon, under the moonlight, the Yaochi Fairy in a white robe appeared especially beautiful.

Her expression was gentle; after the door opened, she stepped in directly and then closed the door.

Ah—this? "Yaochi Fairy? May I ask what urgent matter you have?"

Gu Jin Nian was very courteous; although he did not know why the Yaochi Fairy had come to see him, coming at this hour was certainly problematic.

However, the Yaochi Fairy said nothing and slowly approached the bedside.

Then she immediately slipped off her shoes and lay down on the bed.

???

Ah—this? Fairy, please have some dignity.

What are you doing? Testing officials?

"Yaochi Fairy, what are you doing?"

Gu Jin Nian slightly frowned, being a proper gentleman.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"I wish to cultivate together with you."

"Please, Your Highness, rest assured; Yaochi has no unwillingness at all, only that her temperament is cold, so she does not know what to say."

"If Your Highness does not mind, Yaochi is willing to offer herself, and from now on become a Dao companion."

The Yaochi Fairy said calmly with an expression of peace.

She was very serious.

Although she did not like Gu Jin Nian, she bore no ill will toward him, and given the matter of cultivation, she was straightforward.

But Gu Jin Nian was stunned.

A delivery in the middle of the night?

And such a good thing?

Oh, wait, there is also such a ridiculous matter? "Yaochi Fairy."

"What are you doing? Gu is a proper gentleman and would never engage in base acts; moreover, between a man and a woman there should be affection before anything else. You are being far too absurd, treating Gu as a base person."

"Absurd!"

Gu Jin Nian wore a serious expression.

A gentleman's nature includes desire.

But the problem is, I wasn't mentally prepared; you came over in the dead of night—aren't you causing trouble? Yet I must admit.

The Yaochi Fairy is truly beautiful.

Under the candlelight, her skin glowed crimson, her features were delicate and beautiful, her long hair lay across the pillow like flowing clouds, and her beautiful eyes revealed a hint of innocence.

Honestly, a normal person could not remain unmoved.

It's not that seeing a beauty makes one unable to move one's legs, but rather an instinctual yin‑yang attraction.

The Yaochi Fairy said nothing, but closed her eyes, and a speck of red light flickered above her brow.

She gazed at Gu Jin Nian.

Gu Jin Nian also gazed at her.

Then, the Yaochi Fairy slowly opened her mouth.

"You want to come up."

"But you are afraid of being discovered."

The Yaochi Fairy spoke.

Thus she said.

"Defamation."

"Fairy, be careful with your words; you are defaming me."

"Gu is fond of reading, studying the great principles of the Spring and Autumn Annals."

Gu Jin Nian spoke out directly.

He tried hard to argue.

I did not.

"Crown Prince, I am born with the ability of mind‑link, but it works intermittently—sometimes effective, sometimes not, and I cannot fully know what the other is thinking."

"Yet I can guess the general idea."

The Yaochi Fairy spoke, speaking seriously.

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian recalled that Sixth Uncle had once told him that the Yaochi Fairy had a problem.

She can read his mind.

Unexpectedly, it really is so.

"Fairy, Gu truly have no such intention."

Although his heart was exposed, Gu Jin Nian still held his ground, for Sixth Uncle had also said that these people only wanted to drain him.

They want to squeeze dry the ability of the fairy spirit root.

"Crown Prince."

"Since you have intentions, why do you not dare to admit it?"

"Could it be as Master said?"

The Yaochi Fairy's eyes showed curiosity; she sat up, her fragrant shoulders revealed, even more awe‑inspiring.

"Master's words?"

"What did the Palace Lord say?"

Gu Jin Nian seemed slightly curious.

"My Master said, if I lie on the couch and the Crown Prince can still steady his mind, then that is mostly incompetence."

"It needs treatment."

The Yaochi Fairy spoke lightly.

Hearing that, Gu Jin Nian became somewhat displeased.

He is a gentleman.

Not incompetent.

A man most dislikes hearing the word "incompetent."

Fine.

Fine.

Fine.

Yaochi, oh Yaochi, this is your choice.

Then don't blame Gu.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian stepped forward a few paces and took a deep breath.

And the Yaochi Fairy also took out a bottle of medicine, slowly swallowed a pill and said.

"Master instructed to take a pain‑relief pill."

She was very serious, leaving Gu Jin Nian somewhat silent.

She thought of a line: it won't sting you, yet it still seems problematic.

No rambling.

Gu Jin Nian walked over.

But at that moment.

A faint voice sounded outside the room.

"Crown Prince, proceed with caution."

"It will be sealed."

As Su Huaiyu's voice rang out.

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian was startled.

Immediately, he looked at the Yaochi Fairy and said.

"Fairy, you should go back; Gu does not like this."

He spoke.

In fact, Gu Jin Nian had no particular thought; he intended to go over, cover her with a blanket, and leave.

He just didn't expect Su Huaiyu to appear suddenly.

"Crown Prince."

"There is an urgent matter to discuss."

Immediately, Su Huaiyu's voice sounded again.

It made Gu Jin Nian stop hesitating and leave the quarters directly.

Leaving behind the Yaochi Fairy with a calm expression.

However, on the couch, the Yaochi Fairy's beautiful eyes also showed a hint of a smile.

(End of chapter.)