Chapter 1, Yang Ji
Whether one can become a successful scholar and stand out depends on the imperial examination six months from now... It has been eight years, and I can no longer stay in this clan for even a moment
I cannot swallow this grievance
The "mountain rat" sent the tribute, a barely perceptible cold smile flashing in his eyes, and without pausing, he clasped his hands and turned to leave
This matter has nothing to do with Yang Yong. This incident was my own carelessness; I tripped and fell on the road. Young Master, you should not go.
So hateful! So hateful!
After a pause, the elderly man said apologetically
Yang Ji stood in front of "Shan Shu" and said somewhat displeased
Yang Ji was unconcerned
Do you take me for a three-year-old?
Scared!
At this moment, Yang Ji no longer believed, and without further ado, he took a large step, bypassed the table, and walked to the left side of the old man. Suddenly, a patch of dark bruising appeared, swollen high, coming into view.
In another direction, the "mountain mouse" ran far under the wall before finally stopping
Putting down the book, Yang Ji began to practice the "Art of Breathing"
The old steward sighed and said
It is a pity that my innate talent is too poor; otherwise, I could directly participate in the martial arts imperial examination and become a martial student without all this trouble
Over a long period of time, Yang Ji had already learned to be cautious and to endure. He understood deeply that without great power, he had no way to contend with that woman.
Liang Bo, you have arrived
The "mountain rat" clasped his hands and stepped in, his pair of sly eyes quickly surveying all directions.
Young master, I am already advanced in age and do not have much time left. My only hope is to see you succeed; that way, both your father and mother will find solace in the afterlife.
In a few months, it will be time for the imperial examination. You have prepared for this day for far too long. The clan prohibits private duels; if my matters lead to you being caught by the "Madam," it would truly be a wasted effort. All our hard work over the years would be in vain. How am I, an old servant, to find my place in this situation
The little rascal thinks he is clever, secretly burning the midnight oil and buying so much paper to practice, truly believing he can deceive the madam; this is a path to self-destruction
The old steward took the copper coins from Yang Ji
Yang Ji has witnessed the warmth and coldness of human relationships, as well as the fluctuations of societal conditions
The fierce wind reveals the strength of the grass, the raging fire tempers true gold; without enduring the bitter cold and frost, how can one expect to be fragrant and alluring
Yang Jiben was the young master of the Yang clan, living a life of enviable wealth and luxury. However, a sudden change led to the death of both his parents, and at the tender age of seven, Yang Ji became utterly alone, with his status within the clan plummeting.
Although there is no direct evidence, Yang Ji is well aware that everything directed against him has been carried out under the instigation and authorization of this noble lady
The strength of the Han Dynasty was such that even a mere child scholar was not to be underestimated
Over the past eight years, not only have members of the clan suppressed him, but even the subordinates have dared to mock and ridicule him openly, using veiled insults.
No, there is not...
Ah, no, nothing... what could happen to me
His footsteps were unsteady as he walked with a book in hand, carrying a lunchbox, and upon seeing Yang Ji, he revealed a gentle smile
Hehe, I have other matters to attend to, so I won't disturb you any longer. Young Master Ji, Old Butler, I take my leave
Yang Ji said resentfully
After Yang Ji's passing, the old steward's expression also changed upon witnessing this scene. From now on, for the next sixty days, the weather will be extremely cold, necessitating the distribution of support funds from the clan.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Yang Ji never gave up hope. He constantly reminded himself that everything in life is a test of his own resilience
Who does not wish for the love of a kind father and a caring mother? Who does not long for family happiness? However, Yang Ji cannot; losing his parents at an early age forced him to mature prematurely
Is Master Ji present in the bar
Yang Ji's heart trembled violently, caught in a battle between heaven and man. Finally, he let out a deep sigh and lowered his hands.
However, Yang Ji could not take it in at all. The old steward gritted his teeth and finally said
Yang Ji and the old butler exchanged glances, then suspiciously took it over.
The Yang family is a century-old prominent clan in Pingchuan County, possessing significant influence, and their ancestors once produced three distinguished military scholars.
The elderly person urged.
Now that he is here, has the clan suddenly encountered financial difficulties
"Old steward, Young Master Ji, please take care of this."
It was only in the past that the old steward would take ten or eight days to reluctantly hand over the tribute money whenever he was asked for it. This is only the fifth day, and they have actually begun to distribute the tribute money, and it is even being personally delivered by the account manager. This has made both Yang Ji and the old steward feel somewhat uncomfortable.
Hehe, Young Master Ji, I apologize for the interruption, Old Butler
The circumstances of his father's death were suspicious, and Yang Ji had more than once contemplated investigating the truth outside.
In today's imperial court, there are numerous martial saints, and they are even able to directly confer divine titles, establish temples, and enjoy the offerings of incense
In recent years, his situation within the clan has been difficult, often encountering deliberate difficulties and insults from many people. However, as long as it is not excessive, he tells himself to endure. But why do these people target an elderly man?
The "mountain rat" was slapped by Yang Jishan and was already terrified. Seeing him furious at that moment, before he could make a move, the mountain rat immediately began to shout repeatedly, rolling and crawling as he desperately rushed out the door
Over the past eight years, Yang Jihan has faced numerous challenges, diligently studying and working hard, and has finally achieved success. Whether in literary interpretation or in calligraphy and painting, Yang Ji has reached a level of accomplishment that is rare among his peers
Now everything has finally reached the time for "harvest." Once the year-end passes, in another six months, it will be the long-awaited examination for the young scholars.
"The fierce wind reveals strong grass, the raging fire refines true gold; without enduring the cold and frost, how can one attract the fragrance of the person?" These four lines serve as his self-encouragement and are the phrases he writes most frequently while practicing calligraphy
Initially, the clan embezzled the property left to him by his father, claiming to safeguard it for him, providing him with a monthly allowance similar to that of others, in order to prevent him from being extravagant and squandering the family assets
The Han Dynasty was renowned for its cultural achievements and had a multitude of talented individuals, boasting significant strength. At this time each year, competition becomes exceedingly fierce. Over 80,000 scholars from the various towns and villages of Pingchuan County participate in the examinations, yet only three will ultimately be selected
It is not a problem, being late is just being late, it is not a problem. Uncle Liang, thank you for your hard work
In the family, he is the most formidable, and only he is capable of doing such things
Yang Ji roared
If it were not for the rules of the clan, established by the ancestors, that woman would have some reservations. Yang Ji did not know whether he could still be alive today
The conspiracy was exposed, and the "mountain rat" stammered, speaking incoherently
Such an event occurred, and Yang Ji lost all appetite
After dinner, a sudden knock on the door was heard
Those "uncles and aunts" who covet the Yang family's wealth, along with this Yang Yong, are merely pawns acting on someone else's orders; the true mastermind is this "madam" from the direct lineage of the clan.
Who
The faint voice of the old steward could be heard in the ear
Young master, this is not permissible
These beasts have even laid their hands on you
Muttering and grumbling, they finally walked away
... ...
I apologize for the delay on the road today; you must be very hungry
It is unclear how much time has passed when a rustling sound of footsteps is heard. Yang Ji's mind stirs, and he comes back to his senses. The door creaks open, and an elderly man with a head full of gray hair enters.
Yang Ji shouted loudly
Yang Ji's anger grew increasingly intense. Suddenly, he grabbed a pen and began to write furiously on the scrap paper, as if he wanted to pour all his anger and resentment into his writing. With swift strokes, a line of wild cursive appeared on the paper:
Yang Ji ceased his practice and joyfully exclaimed
The situation is stronger than individuals, and we cannot compete with them. Moreover, as the year-end approaches, although this amount of money is insufficient to get through, we can think of ways to stretch it, turning one unit into two, which will ultimately buy us some time
However, Pingchuan County is located on the border, truly a place where the heavens are high and the emperor is far away. The roads leading outward are fraught with danger, inhabited by various fierce beasts and ferocious creatures, as well as bandits who claim the mountains as their own, and demons, malevolent practitioners, and heretical cultists who kill without mercy.
The old steward slowly walked to the table with a food box, then began to take out the items one by one, all of which were very light dishes, such as scallion tofu and stir-fried bamboo shoots
Yang Yong! It is Yang Yong, isn't it? Is he the one who instigated this? That bastard!
The field mouse made every effort to remain calm, but the panic in its voice betrayed it
... ...
If there is something to say, please speak up quickly
In recent years, despite being busy with studies, Yang Ji has never given up on exercising. The so-called "breathing technique" refers to a method of enhancing the blood transport capacity and improving lung strength and physical endurance through special breathing control.
The old steward did not expect Yang Ji to be so agitated; feeling anxious, he quickly grabbed hold of Yang Ji.
It is rumored that those powerful warriors can achieve sanctity through their physical bodies, summon spiritual energy like smoke, control mountains and seize peaks, reach the depths of the azure sky and the yellow springs below, and even create worlds, becoming gods or demons.
Take a break and focus on your studies. Leave the financial matters to me
Twenty copper coins are not even enough to cover the usual half-month's salary, so how can one endure the following two months
The wind howled outside the window, and Yang Ji sat with his back to the old man and the *Tu* book, remaining silent, yet tears streamed down his face.
Yang Ji secretly kept an extra thought in mind
How much is it? How would I know?
If they were to discover that they had contracted the disease, their expressions would surely be quite remarkable
Oh no, it's terrible, there's been a murder
The payment from the treasury has not yet been disbursed. After a few more days, I will prepare a delicious dish of bamboo shoots and tender meat for you
Buzz
Hehe, didn't the old steward come to urge for the payment a few times last time? Here, as soon as I had some free time, I hurriedly brought it over
The "mountain rat" smiled awkwardly, took out a money pouch from his bosom, shook it, and it jingled. He then handed it over.
It is rumored that there once existed a great sage of literature, who could attain sanctity through reading. In his discourse, a magnificent aura would rise to the heavens, compelling dragons and phoenixes to bow down, commanding the universe, with his words manifesting as laws, inspiring admiration and aspiration in the hearts of others. Whether this is true or not remains uncertain
This world is the world of "Martial Arts and the Sealing of the Gods"
As a child, how can one disregard the kindness and grace of one's parents
Then the voice said
Love the house and its crow, hate the house and its crow as well
I will never let him go
However, later on, she gradually gained power within the clan, and her status rose significantly, thus she gradually became known as the "Madam" among the people.
In a daze, Yang Ji recalled some unofficial historical accounts, and could not help but yearn for them
The old steward was busy attending to his duties
Is this guy really so kind-hearted
Yang Ji and the old butler both looked over.
First, the family estate aroused the covetousness of my uncles and aunts, and then I was driven out of my residence and relegated to this remote woodshed
The Tongsheng Examination is a grand event held every three years during the Han Dynasty.
Yang Ji was furious beyond control
My father served as an official in the court, but more than eight years ago, he suddenly met with misfortune outside. After that, my mother also passed away in sorrow. This incident has always been the greatest source of pain in Yang Ji's heart, one that he can never forget
Young master, it is cold, and the food cools easily; you should eat it while it is hot
More than eight years ago, when her parents were still alive, Yang Ji had once called her "Auntie"; at that time, she did not hold the status she has today
The cold wind howled outside, causing the paper to rustle, bearing witness to the vow in Yang Ji's heart at that moment
Such matters are too distant to be substantiated
This young man is approximately fourteen or fifteen years old. Although he is not very old, he possesses a maturity that is rare among his peers. Just by observing his clothing and living conditions, one can tell that his circumstances must be quite difficult
Yang Ji shouted angrily, delivering a slap that sent the "mountain rat" crashing to the ground
Three days ago, Yang Ji personally witnessed a large quantity of magnificent brocade silk garments being transported through the main entrance; he also saw a substantial amount of precious medicinal materials being distributed to every household—except for his own
Jin'an City, Pingchuan County
The old steward sighed
As the year draws to a close, a heavy snowfall is imminent. With over two months of bitter cold, I have only given you twenty copper coins; let us see how you manage to get by! The eldest son is returning soon, yet you remain so restless, opposing the legitimate matriarch of the family. This is your fate.
Sasha
Mr. Li
Yang Ji also wished to practice martial arts, but unfortunately, his clan had been withholding his silver and had cut off the supply of medicinal materials he needed for his training.
Boom
Difficulties within the family? When did these difficulties arise?
Hehe, young master, practicing calligraphy is hard work; you should eat something first
This meal was as tasteless as chewing wax
Yang Ji wanted to rush out the door, but was stopped by the old steward
Yang Ji is confident that if he does not make a sound, he will astonish everyone when he does. As long as he secures a place among the top three and becomes a successful candidate, he will find a way to break free from his clan and achieve great success.
Yang Ji roared in his heart, slamming his fist on the table with a bang, breaking the brush and splattering ink everywhere
When the name of the madam was mentioned, a deep hatred flickered in Yang Ji's eyes
These are far beyond what a frail scholar could imagine or compare to
He had tolerated the usual halving of their share, but now, after repeated demands, they unexpectedly sent twenty copper coins to help them endure the harsh winter for two months
Liang Bo, rest assured. I know what to do. I will not let 'that woman' succeed
For some reason, Yang Ji felt that Liang Bo looked a bit different today compared to usual
Her character is cold, cruel, and vengeful, punishing maids and servants for the slightest offenses. When Yang Ji's mother was alive, she had multiple conflicts with her, which led to deep-seated resentment.
Yang Ji was extremely angry, and the more he thought about it, the more furious he became. He hated those who had humiliated him, and he also hated himself. If it were not for his own lack of ambition, how could he have ended up in such a situation
Whether reading can lead to sanctity, Yang Ji does not know; however, at least during his eight years of reading, he has never experienced such a feeling.
Young master, even if you do not think of yourself, you must consider the late master and mistress!
After the death of his mother, Yang Ji also suffered her resentment as a result
Upon hearing these words, Yang Ji trembled all over, as if struck by lightning
The arrangements within the clan are truly heartless. It is intended to cut off their sustenance
The old steward exclaimed in surprise
You are simply being too unreasonable
A gentleman takes revenge; ten years is not too late. I am very weak today, but I will not remain weak forever. One day, I will make that woman pay the price
After a long time, Yang Ji picked up his pen, and many memories from the past came to his mind
"If the five cauldrons of food do not perish, then the five cauldrons will cook. I, Yang Ji, will never remain so inconspicuous forever. One day, I will make everyone take notice of me!"
Those who were supposed to be the closest relatives have instead become the ones who oppress him the most
Without the escort of a skilled expert, it is essentially a certainty of death. Yang Ji is merely a scholar without any means of defense; venturing forth recklessly would undoubtedly lead to a dead end, proving to be futile and unproductive
The sudden shout caught everyone off guard, and the figure of the "mountain rat" visibly trembled, as if startled.
Thus, the imperial examination system has traditionally only established the titles of "Tongsheng" and "Xiucai", without the title of "Juren", let alone that of "Zhuangyuan"
Upon opening the door, I saw a slender figure standing outside. He wore a long gown made of blue silk, appeared to be in his forties or fifties, had a pair of mustaches shaped like the number eight, and his eyes were wandering. When he spoke, he gave off an impression of being lewd and calculating.
His expression was focused; although the cold wind struck against him, he felt nothing at all
The tribute silver in the large clan is something that every descendant can receive
This is also the root of all "disasters and books" of Yang Ji; the reason Yang Ji is where he is today is entirely due to her contributions
Hehe, it's alright
According to the book, before this world, there was actually another world. And "Wen Sheng" is the story of that era
The old steward became increasingly flustered
Liang Bo, has someone troubled you again
Yang Ji felt a heaviness in his heart, and without further hesitation, he turned over the bag. With a clatter, a number of copper coins fell into his hand. After a rough count, there were a total of 20 copper coins.
Upon seeing this bruise, Yang Ji felt a jolt in his heart, as if a soft corner within him had suddenly convulsed, struck by a heavy blow
Early in the morning, in the woodshed at the southeast corner of the Yang residence, a window was open. A thinly dressed young boy, with his lips tightly pressed together, was focused on practicing calligraphy on a piece of low-quality straw paper.
The "mountain rat" is a person close to the lady, and every time he asks for money, he has never been straightforward. Yang Ji does not like him at all
This is the most fundamental foundational practice before training martial arts
"There is no such thing as a free lunch; if someone is overly attentive, they are either deceitful or a thief. This fellow must be up to something."
Bastard
Yang Ji came to his senses, sighed, and a hint of melancholy appeared in his eyes
I wonder what expression the esteemed matriarch of the direct lineage in the clan would have when she suddenly discovers that I have been selected as a child scholar
Yang Ji took a deep breath, suppressing the anger within, and sat back down
Seeing the old man's reaction, Yang Ji's suspicions were greatly aroused. He then recalled that the old butler had delivered the meal much later than usual today, and suddenly it seemed that he understood something.
"Young Master Ji, this... this is the meaning from the clan. I also... the clan... has been experiencing financial difficulties recently. You can take this month's offering first, and we will make up the rest for you in installments..."
The old steward left with the food box, yet Yang Ji could not calm his mind.
Yang Jihong turned around and left with tears in her eyes
Please wait
Yang Ji recalled that face and secretly sneered
... ...
Yang Jishuang's eyes turned blood red in an instant, and he trembled with anger. He finally understood why Liang Bo had been acting so strangely today; when speaking to him, he had deliberately turned his face to the side.
Yang Ji suddenly shouted, staring at the back of the "mountain rat," "How much money is in this bag?"
Yang Jibo was furious
What do you mean by this
Sigh, forget it. It is better to avoid trouble than to create more. He is just a servant, and we need not make things difficult for him
The old butler showed a hint of panic in his eyes and repeatedly waved his hands.
In recent years, he has consistently endured the challenges within the clan, silently bearing all forms of oppression and telling himself to endure in silence. As a result, over these years, no one has regarded him with any respect.
This is the accountant of the Yang clan, known as "Shan Shu," who is responsible for the clan's finances
It is I, the steward of the accounts
The technique of breathing is divided into ten stages. For an ordinary healthy body, one inhalation and one exhalation constitute two stages. Due to insufficient medicinal materials, Yang Ji's progress is slow, and he has only reached the third stage of breathing, barely surpassing his peers by a small margin
Swish!
Yang Jidun paused for a moment, then suddenly frowned and said, "Liang Bo, are you alright?"
The "mountain rat" turned around and spat, feeling quite pleased with himself; he was unwilling to admit that he was afraid of that little fellow