Great Zhou Wensheng

Chapter 247 The Copying Frenzy! Luoyang is in an uproar! (5 chapters, 10,000 words each!)

The moment Empress Wu Mingyue uttered the words "Let me enjoy this for three days," it was like a drop of ice water splashed into a boiling oil pan, instantly triggering an even more intense reaction!
Inside the main hall, the five great Confucian scholars, who were originally excited by the sudden appearance of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion", could no longer sit still!
The look of ecstasy and shock on their faces was quickly replaced by an anxiety bordering on panic.

What a joke!
This world-class calligraphy treasure, which was tempered by heavenly thunder and won the seven tolls of the Confucian Temple bell, can be described as a divine object that appears only once in a thousand years!

Once it is taken into the inner palace by His Majesty under the guise of "borrowing," given His Majesty's obvious fondness and possessive gaze just now, these officials from outside the palace will probably never be able to see its true face again in their lifetime!
For a great Confucian scholar who devoted his life to literature and regarded calligraphy as the source of his life, this was an ordeal comparable to having his heart ripped out and his bones eroded!
"Your Majesty! Wait!"

Li Wenyuan was the first to lose his composure. He almost stumbled out of the line, disregarding all etiquette between ruler and subject and the decorum of a senior official. He bowed deeply towards the throne, almost touching the ground, his voice trembling noticeably with extreme urgency.
"Your Majesty, you are wise! This 'Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion' is no ordinary piece of calligraphy; it is a masterpiece unparalleled throughout the ages, containing the supreme principles of calligraphy and the true meaning of the universe and literature! Its value is related to the fate of the nation and the cultural lineage! We humbly beg Your Majesty to grant us the grace to make a copy!"

He raised his head, his eyes filled with an almost pleading, burning light. "Even if we only grasp one or two aspects of its form, or even a fraction of its spirit, it would be enough for us to study it for a lifetime, benefiting us immensely. It would also bring blessings to our disciples and strengthen the foundation of our Great Zhou's literary tradition!"

"I second the proposal!"

"I humbly request Your Majesty's permission!"

The four great Confucian scholars, Lu Mingde, Dong Xian, Zheng Shouchang, and Zhou Pu, also stepped forward in unison, their voices loud and clear, their expressions solemn and earnest, bowing deeply and refusing to rise.

Their gazes were drawn to the scroll of genuine art, its brilliance understated, as if drawn by a magnet. The longing in their eyes was like that of a traveler in the desert gazing up at an oasis spring.

Before the supreme truth of literature and morality, all worldly etiquette between ruler and subject, and court rules, seem insignificant at this moment and must give way to such a grand event.

Upon seeing this, Empress Wu Mingyue couldn't help but slightly furrow her exquisitely beautiful eyebrows.

She naturally wanted to keep this treasure of heaven and earth for herself, but faced with the joint plea of ​​these five pillars of the nation, who were the backbone of the Holy Dynasty's literary and moral traditions and highly respected, even the emperor could not go against their wishes.

This is not merely a matter of human relationships, but also a matter of the emperor's respect for the inheritance of literature and knowledge sharing, and a matter of the heart of scholars throughout the land.

She pondered for a moment, her cool gaze slowly sweeping over the faces of the five great scholars, which were filled with longing and perseverance, and then glancing meaningfully at Jiang Xingzhou, who stood quietly as if detached from the matter.

She finally sighed softly, somewhat helplessly, and made the necessary concession:

"Enough, enough... All of you ministers are pillars of literature and scholarship. If I were to be stingy, it would seem that I am heartless."

"Prelude!"

"Therefore, I hereby grant these five gentlemen permission to make copies on the spot in this Wenhua Hall!"

She emphasized the word "on the spot," then changed her tone, revealing an undeniable sense of protection, and clearly stated: "Once you have finished copying, you may take the copies back to your residences to carefully examine and study them. I will not interfere."

Having said that, she slightly raised her phoenix eyes, her gaze becoming firm once more, as if asserting her dominance:

"As for the original scroll... after you gentlemen have made your own copies,"

"I will take it back to the palace and keep it safe so that... I can appreciate and study it often, and cultivate my and the nation's literary spirit and integrity."

Upon hearing this, the five great scholars felt a little disappointed that they could not keep the original for a long time, but they were already grateful for His Majesty's extraordinary grace in granting them this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a copy, which far exceeded their expectations!
Immediately, everyone's faces lit up with joy, as if they had been granted a pardon. They bowed again and thanked His Majesty in loud voices: "Your Majesty, we thank you for your great kindness!"

The eunuchs had already cleverly brought over five sandalwood tables, laid out the finest Chengxintang Xuan paper, and carefully ground ink of the appropriate consistency using imperial ink.

In an instant, the atmosphere inside the Wenhua Hall changed from shock and clamor to an extreme solemnity and focus.

The five great scholars each sat at a table, holding their breath and concentrating as if facing a formidable enemy. They adjusted their breathing and brought themselves to their peak condition.

I began this historically significant first attempt at copying the original "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," which still seemed to float in the air and emanated a faint glow.

At this moment, the solemn and majestic Wenhua Hall seemed to transform into a sacred hall of calligraphy of the highest rank in the world.

Five white-haired Confucian scholars sometimes wielded their brushes with lightning speed, striving to capture the spirit flowing in the original work.
Sometimes he would suddenly pause, furrow his brow in deep thought, repeatedly pondering the subtle turns of a certain stroke, or the density and irregularity of a certain composition.

What they were imitating was not only the shape of the characters, but also the immortal literary spirit of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion".

What they have completed will be the renowned "Wenhua Hall First Copy" in the history of calligraphy of the Great Zhou Dynasty.

Because it is a direct comparison with the original work, which was just created and was at its most literary and full, the mind and spirit resonate with it at the closest distance. The resulting copy naturally captures the essence of the original, with exquisite brushwork and ink, almost indistinguishable from the original. It itself has become a priceless literary treasure.

About an hour later, the five great scholars put down their pens one after another. Although their foreheads were covered in sweat, they were extremely excited. Each of them held their painstakingly completed "first copy" with an uncontrollable sense of satisfaction and ecstasy on their faces, as if they had found a treasure.

They knew that if they took this copy back and secluded themselves to study it for several years, their own calligraphy skills would surely break through the shackles and reach a higher level!

Seeing that they had all finished copying, the Empress nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

The chief eunuch, who had been standing by, immediately stepped forward.

With the gentlest and most respectful gesture, as if handling fragile glass, the original copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," which had absorbed the thunder and brilliance of the heavens, was slowly rolled up.

Wrap it carefully in bright yellow brocade, then respectfully hold it high above your head and present it to the emperor's desk.

Empress Wu Mingyue took it personally, her fingertips gently tracing the smooth surface of the scroll once more. A satisfied and undeniable possessiveness flashed in her eyes as she carefully tucked it into her wide sleeves, as if she had taken the most brilliant pearl of calligraphy and literature from the Great Zhou Dynasty into her pocket.

The original copy entered the emperor's sleeve, and the dust settled.

Upon seeing this, the prince and his officials all understood perfectly: this scroll of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" was a genuine work known throughout the world, and from then on it became the Empress's private possession, locked away in the palace. Without an extraordinary opportunity, outsiders would never be able to see its true form again.

However, hope has not been completely lost!

Almost the instant the original was put away, all the officials' burning gazes turned to the few scrolls of "first copies" still fragrant with ink in the hands of the five great scholars!
The original is hard to come by, but if one could obtain the first copy from a great scholar, and study it day and night, practicing diligently, that would be a tremendous opportunity to pass down through generations and benefit future generations!
Immediately, the Wenhua Hall, which had just quieted down, became bustling with noise again, and the atmosphere became lively.

The Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Literary Brilliance, the Ministers and Vice Ministers of the Three Departments and Six Ministries, and the Hanlin Academicians all gathered around, surrounding the five great Confucian scholars in the center. Their faces were filled with the most humble and sincere smiles, and their words were earnest, almost to the point of flattery.
"Master Li! Your copy is incredibly powerful, capturing the majestic spirit of the original!"

"I humbly request permission to observe your work for a few days so I can diligently study and copy your work. I wonder if Lord Li would be so kind as to grant my request?"

"Mr. Lu! Your copy is so vivid and elegant, like a startled swan. I humbly request that you grant me permission to borrow it and make another copy. I will take great care of it!"

"Master Dong, this painting of yours..."

Although the five great Confucian scholars cherished these copies more than their own lives and were quite reluctant to part with them, they could not be too stingy and offend everyone unnecessarily, given the eager gazes and requests from their many colleagues, students, and old friends in the hall, and the fact that the copies themselves had the significance of spreading literature and benefiting the academic community.

Thus, with the Empress's tacit approval and even slightly amused gaze, a massive "second copying" activity unfolded enthusiastically within the solemn Wenhua Hall.

Many high-ranking officials, elites of the Hanlin Academy, and qualified officials who had passed the imperial examinations all found paper and eagerly began a new round of copying the "first copy" of the five great Confucian scholars.

This time, the result was the "second copy," which was second only to the "first copy."

Although the "second copy" is a step further away from the "first copy" in terms of direct transmission of the spirit and literary style, and is inevitably somewhat diminished, it is still a second copy based on the original work. Its brushwork, structure, and composition are still present. For ordinary officials and scholars, it is a rare and coveted model for practice and a precious literary treasure!
It is conceivable that from this day forward, these five volumes of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" will become the prized possessions of the five great Confucian scholars and their families, and will not be shown to anyone other than their closest friends and relatives.

The numerous "second copies" produced today will quickly flow into the major aristocratic families, upright clans, famous academies, and even state and county official schools in Luoyang through various channels of marriage, apprenticeship, and social interaction.

This will inevitably spark a wave of enthusiasm across the Great Zhou Dynasty for imitating and studying the style of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," thereby further solidifying Jiang Xingzhou's unshakeable supreme position in literature, art, and calligraphy during the Great Zhou Dynasty.

What was originally a serious and tense examination for Grand Secretaries of the Imperial Academy was transformed into a grand literary event that affected the entire court and the public with far-reaching influence because of Jiang Xingzhou's calligraphy.

And the source of all this dramatic turn of events—Jiang Xingzhou—still stood quietly in the hall, his blue robe serene, as if detached from worldly affairs.

He calmly watched the bustling scene of copying that had begun because of him, his expression undisturbed, as if everything was within his expectations and control.

In this first test, he not only conquered the demanding Confucian examiners with his "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," but also single-handedly and invisibly changed the calligraphy style of the entire Zhou Dynasty.

As the extraordinary examination held in the Wenhua Hall came to a temporary end, the heavy palace gates slowly opened in the afterglow of the setting sun.

The servants and well-informed people who had been waiting outside immediately sensed the unusual aura.

Five great scholars stepped forward first. Although they looked tired, the barely suppressed excitement and fascination between their brows, as well as the scrolls they carefully protected in their arms that seemed to radiate an invisible brilliance, said it all.

Following closely behind were all the civil and military officials, whether ministers, vice ministers, or scholars from the Hanlin Academy. They were all excited, each holding a newly acquired copybook, whispering among themselves, their voices filled with amazement and reminiscence.

Before these people had even fully left the imperial city, astonishing news broke about the appearance of the original copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," the triggering of heavenly lightning, the seven ringing of the bell at the Confucian Temple, and the five great Confucian scholars leading hundreds of officials in copying it inside the palace.

Like seeds swept up by a whirlwind, they spread at an incredible speed, before their own footsteps, throughout every street and corner of Luojing.

In an instant, the capital of the Great Zhou Dynasty was in complete uproar!

Upon hearing this news, the scholars and literati who had been eagerly awaiting news in restaurants and teahouses, restless in their studies at home, and even unable to concentrate on their studies in academies almost collectively went into a frenzy!

The original manuscript is now the Empress's private possession, unattainable.

However, the appearance of the "Great Confucian Scholar's First Copy" and the "Official's Second Copy" undoubtedly cast a bright beam of light in the darkness, giving the scholars of Luoyang a precious hope to get close to the masterpiece and glimpse the way of heaven!

"They're out! The gentlemen of the palace are out!"

"Quickly! Prepare carriages, horses, and visiting cards! Go to the Minister's residence, the Hanlin Academy, and our mentor's residence!"
"No matter what, even if it means waiting overnight at the gatehouse, I must beg to see a copy!"

"A large sum of money!"
They are willing to spend a fortune to purchase any level of copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion"!
Even if it's a copy made three or four times, or even just a single scrap of paper, I'll spare no expense!

In no time, all the scholars in Luoyang who had connections with court officials and literary elders were mobilized.

Invitation cards and visiting cards flew to the gatehouses of various mansions like a blizzard in December;
Some low-ranking officials' residences, which were usually deserted, were now surrounded by scholars who had come upon hearing the news, and their servants were overwhelmed with their attention.

Some students, even more anxious than ever, would wait on the route taken by officials who had participated in copying the model, bowing deeply to the ground or even kneeling to beg for a chance to see the copy.

Those officials who were fortunate enough to obtain the "second copy" immediately became the most sought-after figures in the literary circles of Luoyang.

Overnight, their mansion was brightly lit every night and filled with distinguished guests.

The precious "two copies" were solemnly placed in the most conspicuous place in the study, and the owner personally unfolded them. The room was crowded with scholars and literati with bloodshot eyes and rapid breathing, afraid of missing a single detail.

They stared intently at every stroke on the paper, their fingers unconsciously tracing and outlining in the air, uttering exclamations that seemed to come from the depths of their souls.

"Incredible skill! Truly incredible skill! The brushstrokes flow like dragons and snakes, as if possessed by a spirit, with the essence of heaven and earth gathered at the tip of the brush!"

Look at this character '之'!

Just as rumored, each of the more than twenty characters with the radical "之" was different, some like a beautiful woman swaying on a willow branch, others like a swordsman drawing his sword—elegant, dynamic, and endlessly varied!

"Truly a divine product that can influence celestial phenomena and be passed down through the world!"

Even though the literary style and spirit have diminished somewhat after being copied twice, the profound principles it contains still deeply move us and benefit us greatly!

"Bring me paper and pen!"
fast!
Before this divine essence dissipates from our consciousness, we must immediately begin to imitate it, so that we may capture even a fraction of its spirit!

Thus, copies of the third, fourth, and even more copies began to be copied and circulated wildly among the literati circles of Luoyang at a breakneck speed.

Overnight, paper became scarce in Luoyang, and the best Xuan paper, fine Huizhou ink, and wolf-hair brushes in various calligraphy and painting shops were snapped up.
That night, all the gatherings of literati and the poetry discussions all revolved around the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion".
Even in street taverns and teahouses, ordinary people, though perhaps not understanding the intricacies of calligraphy, were still enthusiastically discussing the extraordinary phenomenon of calligraphy displayed in the Wenhua Hall.

Inside the "Drunken Immortal Pavilion," an elderly scholar with white hair and beard, his hands trembling, held a scroll of "Three Copies" that he had painstakingly borrowed through connections. Tears streamed down his face as he choked out to the group of younger students around him:

"I am an old man... I am eighty-three years old and have been practicing calligraphy for more than sixty years. Today, I have seen this copy of the calligraphy model and I finally know what the ultimate realm of calligraphy is!"

In this book by Professor Jiang, every stroke of the pen has its source, and every word contains the Dao.

It is beyond human skill and can be called the greatest running script in the history of our Great Zhou Dynasty!

No, it is a masterpiece worthy of being ranked alongside the calligraphy of the Sage of Calligraphy!

Meanwhile, the storyteller at Qingmingju, renowned for his eloquence, had revised his script overnight and was now standing in the teahouse lobby, spitting as he vividly recounted how Jiang Xingzhou, slightly tipsy, splashed ink and wielded his brush with flowing strokes in the Wenhua Hall.

And how did the thunder from the heavens temper the words, ultimately causing the sacred bell of the Confucian temple to ring seven times?

The audience was completely captivated, their cheers and applause nearly lifting the roof off, and the teahouse was busier than usual, several times more popular than ever before.

A whirlwind known as "Lanting" swept through the entire literary world of Luoyang with unstoppable force, even permeating the streets and alleys of the city.

From royalty to commoners, everyone considers owning a copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" a great honor, no matter how many times they copy it. Everyone considers it a great fortune to be able to pick up a brush and copy the words and experience its transcendent spirit.

Overnight, Jiang Xingzhou's reputation for calligraphy was propelled to an unprecedented and glorious peak in the Great Zhou Dynasty.

The source of all this turmoil was the original copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," which had absorbed the essence of heavenly thunder.

At this moment, it is quietly placed deep within the Nine Heavens Palace, secretly kept by Empress Wu Mingyue in the warm pavilion of her bedchamber, hanging on the most hidden jade wall in her boudoir, becoming a masterpiece reserved only for the emperor to appreciate.

Every night before bed and every morning when she wakes up, she can see the authentic copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" that has been passed down through the world.

Thus, it became an eternal legend and ultimate aspiration in the hearts of scholars all over the world, something that could only be longed for but never attained.

The five great Confucian scholars in the Wenhua Hall had just finished their first assessment.

But Jiang Xingzhou, with just this one piece of "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," has completely shocked, conquered, and even reshaped the literary and calligraphic aesthetics of the entire city of Luoyang.

As night deepened, the city of Luoyang was ablaze with lights, as bright as day.

Countless study windows reflect figures bent over their desks, writing furiously. Countless literati are immersed in imitating the flowing charm of ink and brush, working tirelessly through the night.

Amidst this city-wide "Lanting craze," Zhang Xu, a descendant of the calligrapher Zhang Xu who was temporarily residing at the Luoyang Inn, naturally could not remain uninvolved.

Initially, thanks to the extensive connections of his semi-saintly family, he managed to borrow a copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion," which was considered his life's work, from a court official he was on good terms with.

When Zhang Xu received the scroll, he appeared solemn, but deep down he did not have any particularly great expectations.

He was born into a family of semi-saints and had seen the original manuscript of the Sage of Calligraphy at birth.

With a talent for calligraphy flowing in his blood, he was immersed in the wild and elegant style of his ancestor Zhang Xu from a young age, who could "remove his hat and bare his head before princes and dukes, and wield his brush like clouds and smoke on paper." His vision was exceptionally high.

Ordinary famous calligraphic works, or even some masterpieces of the Mingzhou level, no longer excite him.

However, when he returned to the quiet room of the inn, dismissed those around him, and with a somewhat scrutinizing mind, slowly unfolded the scroll on the table—

"Buzz!"

It was as if a silent thunderclap had exploded deep within his literary palace!
Zhang Xu was struck dumb, frozen in place! His pupils contracted sharply to the size of pinpoints, and his breath stopped completely at that moment.

The composure and arrogance that belonged to the descendants of a half-saint vanished from his face in a fraction of a second, replaced by extreme horror, disbelief, and a chilling sense of defeat that surged up like a tidal wave!
"This...this...how is this possible?!"

He murmured almost unconsciously, his voice dry and trembling uncontrollably.

His fingers, uncontrollably and extremely gently, touched the paper, tracing the flowing, seemingly alive ink marks.

Even though this is only a copy, the magnificent spirit and transcendent divine intent contained within it have diminished, but the remaining Daoist rhythm that points directly to the origin of calligraphy still strikes his literary heart like a heavy hammer!
Who is he?
He is a direct descendant of Zhang Xu, the master of cursive script!
Inheriting the bloodline of a semi-saint, he regarded his ancestor's unrestrained and passionate cursive script as the highest hall of calligraphy and literature from a young age, practicing diligently for decades without ever daring to slack off.

He considers himself exceptionally talented, and despite his young age, his cursive script has already reached the level of Mingzhou.

His writing is expansive and spirited, making him a standout among his peers. He even received high praise from a reclusive elder in his clan, who said he possessed "a touch of the madness of his ancestor."

He firmly believes that his path in calligraphy, though drawing inspiration from his ancestors, is like gazing at the stars.

But among his contemporaries, he was hard to find a worthy opponent.

Given time and sufficient accumulation, it is not impossible to attempt to reach the higher realms of calligraphy, such as "national treasure" or even "world-renowned".

But this copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" in front of him was like a giant axe that split the heavens and the earth, mercilessly shattering all his confidence and pride!
This is only the second copy!

It is already so perfect and full of spirit, with boundless meaning!
What an awe-inspiring and earth-shattering spectacle it must have been to summon heavenly thunder and win the seven tolls of the Confucian Temple's bells to the true copy of "The World's Spread"!

An unprecedented sense of powerlessness and insignificance, like icy water in the dead of winter, instantly permeated his entire being.

His proud calligraphy, which embodies decades of hard work and talent, appears so pale, contrived, and full of deliberate embellishment in the face of this seemingly plain copy!
It's as if a babbling brook faces a vast ocean, and a flickering candlelight is like the bright moon in the sky!

“Jiang Xingzhou…he…how could he…”

Zhang Xu slumped back into the sandalwood chair, utterly dejected. His gaze, however, was fixed on the copybook on the table, as if drawn by a magnet, trying to etch every word into the depths of his soul.

"How could his calligraphy... reach such an unbelievable level?"

This transcends the level of 'skill'; it points directly to the origin of 'Tao,' touching upon the very essence of the laws of heaven and earth!

He couldn't help but recall the various legends about his ancestor, the master calligrapher Zhang Xu.

That kind of extreme emotional outpouring and literary creation, where "joy, anger, distress, poverty, sorrow, grief, pleasure, resentment, longing, drunkenness, boredom, indignation, and any emotion that moves the heart, must be expressed in cursive script," is the most unrestrained fusion of life and ink.

While the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" before us is written in running script, its style is quite different from the unrestrained and wild cursive script, yet its core essence remains the same—

That ultimate state of harmony between humanity and nature, where one forgets oneself and the external world.

The talent and philosophical thinking flowing from his pen, seemingly resonating with the breath of heaven and earth, were subtly connected with the highest realm of literature and philosophy that his ancestors had reached, and even more harmonious and profound in some aspects!
"Following in the footsteps of our ancestors..."

A thought that sent shivers down his spine uncontrollably surfaced in his mind: "No... perhaps in the purity of his understanding and expression of the 'Tao,' he has... touched that legendary edge..."

This realization did not bring him narrow-minded jealousy, but rather a complex mix of deep awe, endless shame, and extreme shock, like a jumble of emotions surging within him.

He originally thought Jiang Xingzhou was just a capable official with outstanding talent in poetry and decisive action.

But no one expected that his skill in calligraphy was so profound and terrifying!
This cannot be explained by mere innate talent; it requires terrifying comprehension, insight into the essence of literature and the Way, and a profound understanding of the rules of literature and the Way.
He gripped the edge of the copy tightly, his knuckles turning white from the force, his heart churning with turbulent emotions.
"I have always been proud of my ancestral lineage and my family's profound learning... I am immersed in the legacy of my ancestors all day long, but I do not know that there are people beyond people and heavens beyond heavens!"
Jiang Xingzhou... what kind of path did he take?
How on earth did he do it?
Could it truly be a divine gift?

At this moment, this proud and arrogant descendant of a semi-saint family completely suppressed all his contempt and innate sense of superiority.

He carefully and neatly laid out the two copies of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" in the center of the table, as if facing a sacred object, with a devout gaze.

He knew that this was not just a copy of calligraphy, but also a crystal-clear mirror that reflected his own shortcomings and limitations, and pointed him to a more distant and difficult path that was closer to the true nature of literature and life.

"It seems... my past cultivation was far from enough."

The road ahead is still very, very long.

Zhang Xu took a deep breath of the cool air, which carried the scent of ink, and his eyes blazed with renewed fervor.

But that radiance no longer held an arrogant disdain for everything; instead, it was filled with a firm fighting spirit to challenge oneself and learn from the virtuous.

"Lord Jiang Xingzhou... From this day forward, you will be the goal and peak that I, Zhang Xu, will pursue and challenge for the rest of my life in the art of calligraphy!"

As night deepened, the city of Luoyang was unusually restless due to the literary upheaval that had occurred during the day.

Only the most elegant and secluded pavilion on the top floor of "Shuyuxuan" in the city is like a secluded paradise, isolated from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Outside the window, the lights of thousands of homes are scattered like a galaxy;

Inside the window, a private banquet was quietly taking place.

The host was none other than Li Wenyuan, a leading figure in contemporary literature and a renowned scholar who served as the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy.

The person invited to the guest of honor's seat was none other than Jiang Xingzhou, who today in the Wenhua Hall stirred up celestial phenomena and shocked the entire audience with his calligraphy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion".

Few people accompanied him; only a few of Li Wenyuan's most capable disciples and his wife, Xue Lingqi, who sat quietly beside Jiang Xingzhou with a cool and aloof demeanor. The atmosphere of the banquet was unlike the hypocritical formalities of official social gatherings; rather, it resembled a refined gathering of literati with kindred spirits, the air filled with the faint scents of ink and wine.

At the start of the banquet, Li Wenyuan waved away the musicians and singers who were standing by, and personally picked up a pot of imperial wine that had been stored for many years and filled the luminous cup in front of Jiang Xingzhou.

His aged face no longer bore the solemn authority he displayed in the daytime palace; instead, it was filled with the excitement and unreserved fervor of having met the soulmate he had sought all his life.
"Young friend Jiang!"

No, I'll be presumptuous today and address you as Brother Jiang!

Li Wenyuan's voice was loud and clear, carrying a rare boldness and straightforwardness among scholars.

"The 'Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion' presented in the palace today was truly enlightening, like the clouds parting to reveal the sun, or a sudden awakening!"
To be honest, after watching this for so long, I am deeply moved, as if I have drunk a thousand-year-old wine, and I am so intoxicated that I have lost my way home!
"Come, this first cup is for you, an old man's toast, to thank you for allowing me, in my twilight years, to witness the supreme wonder of calligraphy!"

After saying that, he raised his head and drank it all in one gulp.

Before Jiang Xingzhou could respond, he quickly filled a second cup: "This second cup is to congratulate our Great Zhou on the flourishing of literature and the birth of a genius, a national treasure, which is truly a blessing for the country!"

He drank it all again.

He then raised his third cup: "This third cup is for us scholars to witness this grand event, and for the honor of serving in the same court as Brother Jiang!"

He downed three cups in quick succession, his face flushed with excitement.

Jiang Xingzhou quickly stood up and bowed respectfully, saying, "Mr. Li, you flatter me. You are too kind."

Today's work was truly a serendipitous creation born of a slightly tipsy state. Moved by a feeling, it flowed from my pen, and I am fortunate to have received such favor. I am truly humbled and humbled.

"Hey! Excessive humility is arrogance!"

Li Wenyuan feigned displeasure, then clapped his hands and laughed heartily, his eyes gleaming.
"What luck? It was clearly the result of years of hard work and gradual success!"
Having immersed myself in calligraphy for decades, I know that behind the words "accidental success" lies countless years of tireless hard work and extraordinary talent!
Brother Jiang, your realm is beyond the reach of ordinary people; you deserve these three cups from me!

In his conversation, he already regarded Jiang Xingzhou as a close friend of equal standing.

After several rounds of drinks and the dishes were finished, the atmosphere became increasingly warm and harmonious.

Emboldened by the rising steam of the wine, Li Wenyuan rubbed his hands together, a hint of childish embarrassment and eagerness on his face, like a child asking for a beloved possession. He gazed longingly at Jiang Xingzhou and finally voiced the "greed" that had lingered in his heart for so long:
"Brother Jiang, to be honest, I have a request that I can't keep to myself, and I have to get it out!"

Your original copy of the "Preface to the Orchid Pavilion" has been treasured by His Majesty and kept in the deep palace. This old man is truly restless and anxious day and night!

"Could you perhaps trouble your magic brush once more to write another piece for this old man?"

He spoke with utmost sincerity, “I don’t need the unparalleled charm that moves the heavens like the original. As long as I can capture eight or nine parts of its essence, so that I can hang it in my study and ponder it day and night to cleanse my soul, I will have no regrets in this life!”

This letter, I intend to treasure as a family heirloom, to comfort my ancestors, and for future generations to cherish forever!

Upon hearing this, even the disciples of Li Wenyuan who were accompanying him looked astonished and exchanged incredulous glances.

They knew that their teacher, a literary giant, was always aloof and self-possessed. He had never asked for a piece of calligraphy in such a humble and almost pleading manner.
They even want to elevate it to the level of a "family heirloom"!

This undoubtedly shows that in the teacher's mind, Jiang Xingzhou's calligraphy has reached a high level and deserves to be treated with the highest respect.

Jiang Xingzhou was also moved upon hearing this.

He could tell that Li Wenyuan was not just being polite, but was genuinely passionate about calligraphy and literature.

After a moment's thought, he smiled and agreed: "With such great favor from Lord Li, how could I dare to disobey?"

However... as the old saying goes, "A masterpiece is born of nature, and a skillful hand may occasionally create it."

The state of mind, the intoxication, and even the moment when the energies of heaven and earth intersected in the palace today are all irreplaceable.

At this moment, my mind is clear, and I fear I may be unable to recreate the spirit of that time. If my writing only captures the form but not the true essence, I hope Mr. Li will not be offended.

"It's alright! Absolutely alright!"

Li Wenyuan was overjoyed and waved his hands repeatedly, saying, "It is certainly a luxury to achieve both form and spirit, but even if you only capture the form, the brushwork and structure are priceless treasures!"

He immediately ordered his disciples to remove the remaining mats, and personally directed the servants to bring up the long, carved sandalwood table that had been prepared in advance. He then took out his treasured, top-quality pine soot ink and ground it carefully, and spread out the smooth, creamy Xuan paper from Chengxintang. All the utensils were extremely exquisite, showing that he had made preparations in advance and was extremely serious about the matter.

The elegant room fell silent instantly, with only the subtle fragrance of ink filling the air.

Jiang Xingzhou moved to the table, closed his eyes, and concentrated for a moment.

The peak creative state of being, where one forgets oneself and resonates with heaven and earth, that one experienced in the White Day Hall has indeed receded like the tide.

However, his literary talent was profound, and his understanding of every subtle brushstroke, composition, and even the inner spirit of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" was already deeply ingrained in his soul.

He picked up the full wolf-hair brush, no longer deliberately pursuing the ultimate "intoxication" and "natural perfection," but instead using a clear and rational will as the guiding principle and a profound understanding of the rise and fall of life and the natural flow as the soul, and calmly put pen to paper.

The brushstrokes flowed like clouds and water, or a startled snake darting into the grass, the ink dripping freely and unrestrainedly.

Although it lacks the majestic aura forged by heavenly lightning and the grand spectacle of the bells ringing in the Confucian temple, the characters he writes still possess both form and spirit, with a flowing and elegant style.

Its exquisite structure and masterful brushwork far surpass what ordinary calligraphers strive for throughout their lives.

It can be said that this is a perfect replica made in a sober state, with the utmost effort to imitate the author's own masterpiece. The resemblance is 99%, and the spirit of the original is also 90% preserved.

He finished it in one go. Jiang Xingzhou gently put down his pen, exhaled a breath of stale air, and said humbly, "This is a hasty work, I'm afraid it will offend your discerning eye, and I hope you will forgive me, Lord Li."

Li Wenyuan had already rushed to the table, his eyes shining as if he were appraising a priceless treasure.

He traced the still-wet ink with his fingers, uttering bursts of barely suppressed admiration: "Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! Although it lacks the natural, masterful quality of the original, the brushwork is more refined and controlled, the structure is as rigorous as a chessboard, and the energy flows like a river!"

This is a masterpiece of divine control and perfect balance!

it is good!
What a profound and insightful piece of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion"!
It is also a priceless treasure, worthy of being passed down through generations and protected by family tradition!

He carefully picked up the calligraphy, as if cradling a newborn baby, holding it with such tenderness that his long, snow-white beard trembled slightly with excitement.

"With this divine calligraphy hanging in my study, my humble abode, the 'Ten Thousand Scrolls Pavilion,' shines with brilliance, and its literary spirit soars to the heavens!"

This is a gift worthy of being passed down to my grandchildren, bringing glory to our family! Brother Jiang, this generous gift and this kindness are deeply appreciated and will be forever remembered!

With his greatest wish in life fulfilled, Li Wenyuan was overjoyed and his drinking spirits soared even higher.

He was by nature an open-minded and unconcerned person.

Coupled with the shock of witnessing the masterpiece's appearance and the ecstasy of acquiring the calligraphy, all these emotions intertwined, and he completely let loose with his drinking, toasting and drinking with Jiang Xingzhou. The host and guests enjoyed themselves immensely, and they drank three large jars of aged wine in a row.

As the wine flowed freely, Li Wenyuan's face was flushed and his eyes were blurry with drunkenness.

He grabbed Jiang Xingzhou's wrist, his tongue almost tied in knots, but his words were burning with sincerity:
"Brother Jiang... Brother Jiang! I am truly delighted today! There is no greater joy in my life than this!"

You and I... felt like old friends at first sight, our temperaments are compatible, we are both... genuine people who hate empty talk!

How about... how about we take this perfect moment, gather some soil as incense, swear an oath of brotherhood, and become sworn brothers?
From this day forward...we shall call each other brothers, share joys and sorrows, and be bound together by unwavering loyalty!

These words caused a stir among everyone present! The room fell silent; one could hear a pin drop. One of them was a highly respected scholar-official, with disciples and friends throughout the court and beyond, a veritable leader of the literary world.

One was a rising star in the imperial court, enjoying the emperor's favor, displaying his talent, and wielding real power.

If these two were to become sworn brothers, the political signals they would send and the potential upheavals in the government and the public would be immeasurable!
Jiang Xingzhou was also fully aware of the situation.

Li Wenyuan's actions were seven parts a genuine expression of his feelings after getting drunk, and he was impressed by Li Wenyuan's talent and demeanor.

However, the other three-thirds may also be a kind of keen political sense and long-term relationship investment.

The steadfast friendship and alliance with a great Confucian scholar who, though not directly involved in specific political affairs, wields immense influence in academic circles and can be considered a leader of the "pure stream" (a term referring to the scholarly and intellectual circles in China), is of immeasurable and powerful support for any official aspiring to establish themselves in the court or even realize their ambitions.

This will not only greatly solidify his lofty position in the hearts of scholars and literati, but will also make him an invisible force that cannot be ignored in the complex political landscape of the future.

How can we hesitate about this?

Without hesitation, Jiang Xingzhou laughed heartily, his laughter filled with pride: "I am deeply honored that Brother Li has not looked down upon me and has humbled himself to befriend me. I am truly grateful! This is exactly what I was thinking!"

Then, witnessed by Xue Lingqi and several disciples, the two of them held a simple yet solemn sworn brotherhood ceremony by the window of the elegant pavilion, facing the bright lights of Luoyang outside the window and a symbolic stick of incense.

Li Wenyuan was over a hundred years older than him, so he was the elder brother;
Jiang Xingzhou was the younger brother.

After the ceremony, Li Wenyuan was overjoyed, like a child, dancing and gesturing wildly. He then pulled Jiang Xingzhou to drink several cups in succession, until the alcohol took effect, and he collapsed onto the table, drunk and incoherent, still muttering incoherently:
"Good...good brother...to have found a confidant...to have found a worthy brother...today...this life has not been in vain...not in vain at all..."

Jiang Xingzhou looked at his sworn brother, who was drunk and smiling beside him, and then glanced out the window at the bustling city of Luoyang that was now filled with excitement because of him. A deep smile slowly crept onto his lips.

After tonight, he forged an extremely strong and significant alliance outside the turbulent court.
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P.S.: This is the 5th update with 10,000 words!
(End of this chapter)