Chapter 114: A Visit to Tao Fengming

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Listening to the other’s words, Song Mu felt a deep bitterness within his heart. It was only his first day at the Prefectural Academy, yet he had already drawn someone’s attention—someone who seemed to have issued him a challenge. Song Mu looked the other over again. Although Ge Long appeared fierce in appearance, his manner of speaking was quite affable. Perhaps it was because both of them were first-class scholars that Ge Long proposed such a suggestion. Still, despite their similar levels, Song Mu was just beginning this realm, whereas Ge Long had cultivated for a long time; the odds of victory were almost nonexistent. So Song Mu respectfully cupped his hands. “I dare not refuse; if there is an opportunity in the future, I will certainly accompany you.” Hearing this, satisfaction appeared on Ge Long’s face. He said no more, bowed politely to Kong Zong, and then turned to resume his meal. Meanwhile, Song Mu and Kong Zong sat down to finish the last bits of food. Many nearby cast subtle glances toward Song Mu’s direction, whispering among themselves. Previously, their attention had focused on Song Mu’s position as the top candidate or his three mentions in the "Universal Literary Gazette." Now, however, they were more interested in his status as a first-class scholar. To achieve such a rank upon entering the academy not only proved his exceptional literary talent but also indicated his extraordinary innate gift. People like this always shone brilliantly, standing out from others, especially because they had a higher chance of overcoming the barriers between realms. Becoming a scholar upon entering was already a one in a hundred feat; advancing further to become a graduate was even more difficult. Every step on the path of the literary world sifted through countless students. To possess such aptitude for cultivation was everyone’s dream. Even when at the same level, such individuals demonstrated markedly superior strength. A few students who were aware of some inside matters began to discuss Song Mu’s combined prowess in mental force and literary skill. After quickly finishing their meal, Song Mu and Kong Zong hurried out of the eatery. Kong Zong exhaled with relief. “I didn’t expect that senior brother to be so intimidating; just a moment made my back break out in sweat.” Song Mu smiled wryly and nodded, then said to Kong Zong, “Brother Kong, we must work even harder here. Now that we have reached the scholar stage, the real competition begins.” Kong Zong took this seriously; just one meal had already given them a deep understanding of the academy’s situation. After resting briefly in his room, Song Mu rose and set out alone. After inquiring among several senior brothers at the academy, Song Mu finally discovered Master Fengming’s residence. It lay to the northeast of the academy. Carrying two bags of dried meat, Song Mu headed in that direction. The academy covered a vast area, with finely divided zones. As a place combining both temple and school, officials often came to pay homage to sages, and local literati frequently gathered to exchange ideas. After winding through the paths, Song Mu finally found a courtyard hidden among camphor and paulownia trees. Early autumn had arrived, and a few paulownia trees along the main avenue were already shedding their leaves. Song Mu passed through a small lane and, peering over the courtyard wall, caught sight of the small yard inside. Before he could speak, a familiar voice came from within.

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“Come in if you’ve arrived.” With those words, a figure appeared in the courtyard, strolling unhurriedly toward the stone table. Song Mu adjusted his clothing, then stepped into the courtyard and stood respectfully by the stone table, bowing slightly. “Song Mu, pays respects to Master.” “Mm, come sit, come sit.” Tao Fengming’s voice was light and gentle. Song Mu looked up to see Tao Fengming today dressed in a light blue robe, holding a small teapot. “Not bad, you remembered to bring a gift this time.” As Song Mu sat down, he placed the two bags of dried meat on the stone table. Tao Fengming immediately took them, opened a bag in front of Song Mu, pulled out a piece, and without hesitation, tossed it into his mouth. Watching this somewhat unruly gesture, Song Mu pursed his lips. His master’s every word and deed were truly unique. Taking a sip from his teacup, Song Mu sat upright, his gaze fixed on Tao Fengming. Tao Fengming continued chewing his dried meat and sipping tea, giving no response to Song Mu’s gaze. Only when the tea was nearly finished did he raise his eyes and sweep a glance over Song Mu. “Did a scholar come today to spar with you?” The very first question caught Song Mu by surprise. He nodded slightly, replying, “Yes, a senior brother named Ge Long arranged to spar with me in the future.” Tao Fengming nodded and then clapped his hands lightly. After a moment’s search in his bosom, he produced a booklet. “Sparring is a good thing. Young people, who wouldn’t want to prove their worth?” “Here, take this. I’ve never taken on an apprentice before. If you don’t understand something, come ask me anytime.” Hearing this, Song Mu immediately reached out to accept the booklet. On its cover were four simple characters: Fengming’s Insights. Song Mu inwardly marveled but did not open it, instead turning his gaze back to Tao Fengming. Tao Fengming stretched lazily before speaking. “The academy will teach you how to wield literary force. This is the method for using mental force. Many of these are insights I gained when I was at the scholar stage, exploring other realms. You should find them easy to comprehend.” Tao Fengming spoke casually, but Song Mu couldn’t help but purse his lips. Although Tao Fengming’s behavior seemed eccentric, he genuinely cared for his so-called apprentice. Such insights were rare, even among ordinary graduates. Perhaps before Song Mu, no one but Tao Fengming himself had seen such a text. “Master…” Song Mu spoke with some emotion, but Tao Fengming waved his hand and then pointed at Song Mu’s body. “Are you still wearing that jade ring from before?” Song Mu nodded and quickly took it from around his neck. Tao Fengming nodded and explained, “You’ve just begun to explore other realms; naturally, you’re still unfamiliar with how to open them. This jade ring is a key—when your mind focuses, it will help you open other realms smoothly.” “How you manage that in the meantime depends on your own understanding.” Tao Fengming concluded lightly. Song Mu looked at the jade ring before him, surprised that it had such a function. He paused a moment before promptly tucking it away. Tao Fengming said no more, but Song Mu was not about to miss this opportunity. He asked several questions about the use of literary force, and Tao Fengming answered each one patiently. When enthusiasm peaked, Tao Fengming even demonstrated a technique for Song Mu. A scholar who had passed the imperial examination teaching him in such a way was an immense benefit, clearing Song Mu’s thoughts and opening his mind. They talked until the sun dipped low in the west. Song Mu noticed Tao Fengming’s spirit seemed somewhat more depleted, so he quickly stood to take his leave. “If you have questions, come find me. Of course, it’s better if you can solve them yourself.” Tao Fengming said this, waving Song Mu away. Song Mu nodded and respectfully saluted. But just as he was about to step out the gate, Tao Fengming suddenly called after him, “By the way, now that you’re a scholar, when will you have your capping ceremony?” Song Mu paused, turned, and nodded. “The new term starts in a few days. I should have the capping ceremony then.” Tao Fengming seemed to understand, nodding, then suddenly asked, “Have you decided on your courtesy name yet?” Song Mu was taken aback but bowed respectfully. “I have not thought of one yet. I leave it to Master’s decision.” Tao Fengming smiled and softly said, “Good,” then turned back inside. … Reading on mobile at “Novel♂Bar→” offers you exciting novels.

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