Great Zhou Wensheng

Chapter 248, "The Peach Blossom Spring"! (Literature and Artwork: A Dual-Transmission of the World!)
The next day, the morning light was dim.

The Wenhua Hall has long since returned to its former solemnity and grandeur.

The golden pillar with its coiled dragon stood silently, and the officials stood in order, but the anticipation and tension in the air were far greater than yesterday.

Following yesterday's extraordinary celestial phenomena and the ringing of the bell at the Confucian Temple triggered by the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion".

All eyes were no longer just filled with curiosity and scrutiny, but with an almost reverent fervor, fixed firmly on the composed figure in blue robes standing quietly in the center of the hall.

Jiang Xingzhou, with just one scroll of calligraphy, has already proven that he possesses the foundation to become a Grand Secretary of a Hall and Pavilion.

Today, he will face the second assessment for Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame, which will determine whether he can advance further, be awarded the prestigious titles of the Second Hall and the Second Pavilion, and truly join the top ranks of the Holy Dynasty's civil service system.

On the imperial platform, Empress Wu Mingyue sat upright on the dragon throne, her phoenix eyes lowered, seemingly calm.

But the slight tension in her fingertips, and the fleeting expectation and barely perceptible nervousness in the depths of her eyes, betrayed the turmoil in her heart.

The fate of the Great Zhou Dynasty seems to rest on the shoulders of this young subject, Your Highness.

The five esteemed scholars sat solemnly in the examiners' seats, their demeanor composed and dignified.

Especially the person who set the questions today—the Grand Master of the Hanlin Academy of the Great Zhou Dynasty, the great Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang—looked particularly focused.

His face was thin and refined, but his eyes were gentle and warm. He exuded a mellow and profound cultural aura, as inclusive as the earth, which was completely different from Li Wenyuan's sharp and profound appearance yesterday. He appeared more knowledgeable and magnanimous.

When the appointed time arrived, the Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang slowly rose, first bowing slightly towards the throne and his four colleagues. His voice was calm and soothing, yet clearly resonated throughout every corner of the hall:
"Your Majesty, my colleagues."

"Yesterday, Li Jijiu examined Jiang Hanlin's foundation and knowledge through the art of calligraphy. Jiang Hanlin has proven with his amazing work that his brushstrokes are divine and that he can communicate with the spirit of heaven and earth. This is truly gratifying."

"Today, I will presume to pose this second question, in order to observe the character and vision of Scholar Jiang."

His gaze shifted to Jiang Xingzhou in the hall, carrying the air of an elder examining and deeply probing the younger generation:

"I share a deep connection with Brother Li in the pursuit of literature and art."

They all believe that the greatest truths are the simplest, and all things return to oneness.

True wisdom often lies hidden in the simplest things; one must see the big picture from the small details.

"The world of literature is vast and all-encompassing."

Sometimes, it's necessary to see the whole picture from a single aspect, and to perceive the autumn colors from a single leaf.

He paused slightly, then naturally steered the conversation to today's main topic: "Take painting, for example—it seems to be a different path from poetry, songs, classics, and literature."

In reality, they all lead to the same goal: to serve as a vehicle for us writers to express our feelings and aspirations.

"Since ancient times, there has been a saying that calligraphy and painting share the same origin. Both use brush and ink as their structure and spirit as their soul to depict the scene in one's heart and express the meaning in one's heart."

"A superior painting is not merely a collection of brush and ink techniques, but a direct reflection of the artist's inner world, the landscapes he sees, and even his lifelong learning and spiritual realm!"

The voice of the great Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang gradually rose, carrying a profound rhythm as if expounding the great truth, echoing in the silent hall:
"A painting is not merely a landscape on paper, but a microcosm of a world!"

"For scholars who have reached the level of 'Da Fu' in painting, painting has long surpassed the simple act of imitating shapes and objects."

Instead, it is based on one's own profound literary talent and guided by exquisite brushstrokes, that one can carve out a small, personal paradise within the confines of a small piece of paper!

"Or it might be three to five zhang square, enough to accommodate an exquisite pavilion or a secluded tower, forming its own unique layout;"

"It may be seven or eight acres in size, enough to accommodate a winding mountain path and a clear, flowing stream, full of charm!"

"This is precisely what is meant by having a vast and complex mind, which allows one to express it in the smallest detail of the brush!"

It is a manifestation of the harmonious integration of literary cultivation and artistic attainments!

Finally, the esteemed scholar Zheng Shouchang looked intently at Jiang Xingzhou and solemnly announced today's examination question:

"Therefore, my second question will take the art of painting as a starting point to examine the inner world of Jiang Hanlin—"

"Please use your pen to depict what kind of world you truly yearn for?"

"Students, take the questions!"

Jiang Xingzhou bowed respectfully, his expression remaining calm and composed, as if he had already anticipated that the exam questions would not be easy.

After a moment's thought, he looked up and asked a crucial and practical question: "But... I wonder what standards you, Master Zheng, will use to determine whether my painting passes the assessment?"

Upon hearing this, Zheng Shouchang stroked his beard and smiled slightly.

A glint of cunning and profundity, just like Li Wenyuan's from yesterday, flashed in his eyes as he uttered that vague yet supreme standard that made the hearts of all the officials in the hall tighten once again:

"Standard? Naturally... it's until I'm 'satisfied'!"

"Wow——!"

A collective gasp of surprise erupted from inside the hall!

Whispers rose up like a tidal wave!
"Satisfied" again!
These two seemingly simple words are actually the highest and most demanding threshold!
It tests not only skill, but also the artistic conception and style contained in the painting, and even the deep spiritual resonance with the great Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang!

The "meaning" of a painting is mysterious and elusive, difficult to grasp.

How can one accurately cater to the unique and discerning aesthetics and mindset of a learned and accomplished scholar who has seen it all?
This is a thousand times more difficult than specifying a particular subject or limiting the techniques!
However, upon hearing this standard, Jiang Xingzhou did not frown and look troubled as everyone expected. Instead, he fell into a brief silence and deep thought.

His eyelids were lowered, his gaze introspective, as if he were conducting rapid deductions and choices in his mind.

His mind raced, his thoughts flying—

Ordinary paintings that have been passed down through generations, whether it is Qi Baishi's shrimp with natural charm, Banqiao's bamboo and rock with noble spirit, or Qianli's green landscape, are all masterpieces at the pinnacle of painting.

However, judging solely by the artistic conception, it might even earn the approval of a great scholar, who would marvel at the artist's exceptional skill.
However, it may not reach the depth of a shock that makes them feel "satisfied" deep down.

At this moment in the Wenhua Hall, the word "satisfaction" signifies a spiritual touch that transcends the level of technique. It means that the "Tao" contained in the painting must be able to accurately strike the strings of the literary heart of this particular great Confucian scholar, Zheng Shouchang, and evoke a strong resonance.

"The Way of Painting... The Way of Literature... The World My Heart Yearns For..."

Jiang Xingzhou silently recited in his heart, and thousands of thoughts collided in his sea of ​​consciousness. His eyes gradually became clear and bright, as if the clouds had parted to reveal the sun.

The "world that Zheng Gong yearns for in his heart" is by no means a simple fairyland or magnificent landscape. Its core lies in pointing directly to one's true self, demonstrating ideals, and containing profound Taoist charm that resonates with the literary spirit of great Confucian scholars.

“The exquisite painting skills alone are unlikely to move the heart of a great Confucian scholar.”

A clear strategy took shape in his mind.

"Only by incorporating literature into painting, achieving a unity of literature and painting!"

"Only by perfectly integrating endless literary inspiration, a vast and magnificent artistic conception, and even an understanding of the ultimate principles of heaven and earth into a piece of paper and ink can one create a masterpiece that would satisfy Zheng Gong!"

In an instant, an eternal image flowing deep within the Chinese cultural heritage, passed down through the ages, was awakened like a sleeping dragon, suddenly becoming clear and radiant in his heart—

Peach Blossom Spring!
That is an ideal pure land, free from worldly strife, peaceful and tranquil!
It is the ultimate yearning and spiritual home that countless sages, philosophers, and literati have longed for since the "land of happiness" in the Book of Songs of the pre-Qin period.

It transcends time and space, directly addressing people's universal yearning for a better life.

Once the mind is settled, divine will arises naturally.

Jiang Xingzhou's eyes shone brightly, like a reversed Milky Way, profound and unfathomable.

His originally restrained scholarly aura began to flow unconsciously, resonating with the grand imagery, making him seem as if he were shrouded in a hazy, clear light.

He bowed calmly toward Zheng Shouchang and the throne, his voice clear and melodious like the clinking of jade stones: "I have already prepared a draft. Please prepare a long scroll of Xuan paper, as well as several colors of ink, including ochre, indigo, gamboge, cinnabar, and ink sticks."

The eunuchs had already made thorough preparations and, upon receiving the order, immediately presented all the necessary items with utmost respect.

On a large rosewood table, a scroll of top-quality Xuan paper, as white as snow, as smooth as satin, and several meters long, was carefully unfurled, instantly filling the entire room with a solemn and dignified atmosphere.

Jiang Xingzhou held his breath and stood before the desk, adjusting his breathing and immersing himself in the ideal world he had envisioned.

Its invisible literary energy became increasingly active, creating a mysterious resonance with the paper, ink, and paint on the table. A subtle yet clear humming sound of literary energy filled the air, like silkworms eating leaves or the low chanting of Buddhist hymns.

Even more strangely, inside the main hall, everyone seemed to feel a refreshing breeze brushing against their faces, carrying the delicate fragrance of peach blossoms, the vibrant scent of green grass, and the aroma of moist earth, making them feel relaxed and refreshed, as if they were in the countryside in spring.

This is not a physical object, but a sign that the artistic conception has already been created before the painting is finished!

He picked up his brush, dipped it in light ink, his wrist suspended in the air, his arm as steady as a rock, and with a rhythmic and natural touch, slowly outlined the far right of the long scroll—

First, there is a deep and rugged mountain pass, from which a clear stream meanders out, its babbling sound almost audible.

Then, the peach blossoms on both sides of the river flourished, with strong branches, dense flowers, and fallen petals that drifted into the stream with the wind.

Its brushwork is ethereal and unrestrained, with a balanced composition of density and sparseness.

With just a few strokes, the weight of the rocks, the fluidity of the flowing water, and the splendor of the peach grove leap off the page.

It forms a captivating entrance scene, as if drawing the viewer's mind into the unknown and beautiful world within the painting.

He then switched to a finer wolf-hair brush, dipped it in ochre, and exquisitely outlined the natural texture and shading of the rocks.

Then, indigo was mixed with light ink to render the clear depth and flowing feeling of the stream layer by layer. Rouge was used to embellish the flower stamens, gamboge to highlight the petals, and vermilion to lightly dye the glow of the sunset.

In an instant, the peach grove at the entrance of the painting became vibrant and full of life, with shimmering light and the colors of the blossoms in perfect harmony, resembling a magnificent brocade screen shrouded in clouds and mist.

Then, with even finer brushstrokes and greater focus, he used exquisite and meticulous brushwork to depict the delicate details of the mountain walls, where vines entwined and moss covered the surface.
Carefully paint a narrow opening that seems to have light in it.

That tiny glimmer of light was handled with exquisite skill, neither too bright and dazzling nor too dim and unclear.

The image appears incredibly mysterious yet full of hope, containing infinite possibilities and a strong attraction that draws people in to explore it further—truly a stroke of genius.

When he reached the middle of the painting, his brushstrokes suddenly changed, the momentum broadened, and the artistic conception became clear and open!
Fluid, free-flowing lines and bright, warm colors burst forth, depicting a scene of peace and prosperity:

Flat, open land with crisscrossing paths

Neat and orderly houses with high-pitched eaves, fertile and abundant fields with rolling waves of rice.

A pond as clear as a mirror, where fish swim in the shallows.

And the comings and goings of farming, the sounds of mulberry trees, hemp, chickens, and dogs,
The villagers all wore expressions of genuine joy and contentment.

"The land is flat and spacious, the houses are neatly arranged, and there are fertile fields, beautiful ponds, mulberry trees and bamboo groves. The paths crisscross, and the sounds of chickens and dogs can be heard from afar."

Their comings and goings in farming, and the clothing of both men and women, were just like those of outsiders; the elderly and the children alike were all content and happy.

The vivid sentences from "The Peach Blossom Spring" are transformed into a lively, warm, and engaging scene at this moment.

The entire scene is filled with the most beautiful peace, abundance, harmony and vitality of the world, as if you can hear the laughter of children, the idle chatter of the elderly, and the sounds of spring rice weaving.

He did not stop writing, but continued to depict, in a narrative style, the villagers of Peach Blossom Spring's simple and natural surprise upon discovering the outsider fisherman, their sincere hospitality, and their lavish welcome with wine and chicken.

When they spoke to visitors about how their ancestors had fled the chaos of the Qin Dynasty, their faces showed a calm, detached demeanor and a deep appreciation for the peace and tranquility of the present world.

The characters' expressions are captured vividly, and their emotions are sincere and moving.

Finally, at the end of the scroll, the brushstrokes shift once more.

The story concludes with the fisherman's reluctance to leave, his eagerness to "mark the way everywhere" on his return journey, and the later generations' melancholy, confusion, and boundless space for imagination as they "search for the marked path but cannot find it again."

The ink fades here, the scenery becomes blurry, as if shrouded in mist.

This has left an endless aftertaste and eternal remembrance for this once-visited pure land, deepening the artistic conception of the painting.

Throughout the painting process, Jiang Xingzhou maintained a calm and composed demeanor, his breathing synchronized with his brushstrokes.

His mind seemed to be completely immersed in that spiritual sanctuary that he had created and protected with his own hands.

The person and the painting merged, the idea and the environment blended, reaching the ultimate state of selflessness.

The painting is finished, time to put down the brush!
The entire scroll painting of "Peach Blossom Spring" suddenly became radiant and luminous, its inner splendor profound.

The scenery in the painting seems to be gently flowing and breathing, and the rich literary atmosphere and peaceful and joyful mood almost burst out of the paper, permeating the entire Wenhua Hall.

On the painting, faint shadows of peach blossoms sway, the sound of a stream murmurs, and auspicious energy rises like wisps of smoke!

However, this stunning painting was not yet fully completed.

Jiang Xingzhou moved to the large blank space reserved at the left end of the scroll, picked up a wolf-hair brush of suitable size, dipped it in thick, glossy black ink, took a deep breath, and began to inscribe the immortal poem that perfectly matched the painting's atmosphere.

His brushstrokes flow like dragons and snakes, penetrating the paper with power; every word is a gem, each stroke embodying his understanding and yearning for an ideal world.

The literary spirit and artistic conception blend seamlessly at this moment, inspiring and sublimating each other, bringing the connotation and talent of the entire work to a new peak.

The title of the painting was strikingly simple, consisting of four large characters that exuded an ancient charm and vivid spirit—

"The Peach Blossom Spring!"

The main text then flowed out like a clear spring:

During the Taiyuan era of the Jin Dynasty, a man from Wuling made his living by fishing.

Following the stream, I forgot how far the journey was.

Suddenly, a peach grove appeared, stretching for hundreds of paces along both banks, with no other trees, fragrant grasses, and fallen petals in abundance…

"...The prefect immediately sent men to follow him, but they lost their way and could not find the road again."

Liu Ziji of Nanyang was a man of noble character. Upon hearing of this, he gladly planned to go there.

Unsuccessfully, he fell ill and died, and afterwards no one inquired about it anymore.

The stroke of the last character "者" is steadily finished.

Jiang Xingzhou gently placed the brush on the jade mountain-shaped brush rest beside him, producing a crisp and melodious sound, thus bringing this pinnacle of literary and artistic achievement to a perfect close.

The entire hall fell into a deathly silence, completely still.

Everyone seemed frozen in place, their gazes fixed on the long scroll with fascination.

Completely immersed in the grand, auspicious, peaceful, yet eternally wistful and contemplative spiritual world constructed by the painting and the text, I was unable to come back to my senses for a long time, and even dared not breathe, for fear of disturbing the pure land in the painting.

On that scroll, the light gradually receded, returning to the simple paper and ink, but anyone could feel the immense power and vibrant life contained within.

A literary treasure that not only possesses the highest artistic value but also embodies the strongest meanings of "protection," "purification," and "ideal" has been created!
Its quality is by no means inferior to yesterday's "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion"!
Just as Jiang Xingzhou gently placed the wolf-hair brush on the jade brush rest, it made a crisp, soft sound.

The moment the last wisp of pure literary essence completely merged into the painting—

A sudden change occurred!

"Boom--!"

Outside the Wenhua Hall, the sky, which was originally clear and blue, suddenly darkened in an instant!
It was as if an invisible giant hand had splashed ink across the sky, and the rolling dark clouds resembled a stampede of ten thousand horses.

It surged and converged from all directions, instantly swallowing the blazing sunlight and plunging the day into twilight!
The muffled thunder did not come from the heavens, but rather seemed to rumble from the depths of the earth's veins and from the cracks in the void.

Like an ancient deity beating a war drum, the sound waves struck the beams, pillars, and window frames of the palace with tangible force, causing the glazed tiles to rattle and the ground to tremble slightly!
A blindingly bright, thick silver lightning bolt, as thick as a palace pillar, carrying the supreme majesty of the universe, the ultimate yang energy, and the power to judge all things, tore apart the gloomy, iron-curtain-like sky without warning!
Its target strangely avoided the masses in the hall, as if it were firmly drawn by the invisible gravitational pull emanating from the newly formed, grand artistic conception in the painting, and without deviation, it struck the majestic golden roof of the Wenhua Hall!
"Heavenly Thunder."

A guard instinctively cried out in alarm, but his voice was instantly swallowed by the thunder. However, the anticipated scene of the palace collapsing, beams crumbling, and tiles flying everywhere did not occur.

The lightning bolt, containing destructive power, struck the glittering glazed tiles of the palace roof and, as if piercing through a watery illusion, penetrated the roof without any obstruction.

Its unparalleled ferocity struck the newly completed, still-wet ink scroll of "The Peach Blossom Spring" with perfect precision!
"boom--!"

The lightning exploded with a deafening roar, and the extreme light devoured everything, illuminating every horrified face and every inch of space in the hall with a deathly white light, revealing every detail!

The terrifying lightning energy instantly engulfed the painting!
However, an unbelievable, almost miraculous scene unfolded.

The violent lightning, powerful enough to turn refined steel into molten iron and change the color of mountains and rivers, did not destroy the seemingly fragile scroll of paper into ashes the moment it struck it.

Instead, like rivers flowing into the sea and all spirits paying homage, everything was absorbed and devoured without exception by the serene and peaceful artistic conception and the profound literary spirit contained in every word of the Great Dao on the scroll!
Zizzi——!
The blinding lightning bolts slithered, leaped, and coiled wildly across the paper, emitting a chilling sound.

However, the ink and colors on the scroll, under the impact and tempering of this supreme yang energy, not only did not dissipate or blur, but instead seemed to be infused with an immortal soul and life, bursting out with dazzling, ever-flowing seven-colored rays of light!

The scene in the painting seems to be completely brought to life at this moment, transforming from stillness to movement, from life to existence:
The peach blossoms moved swiftly without wind, branches swaying and leaves fluttering, petals falling like rain, and fragrance seemingly emanating from the paper.

The stream flows gently, its surface shimmering, and the sound of its water can be heard.

The sounds of roosters crowing, dogs barking, and children playing seemed to drift from the farmhouses;
The people in the paintings of Peach Blossom Spring have increasingly serene and natural smiles, their eyes sparkling with lively light, radiating genuine peace and joy.

The entire scroll was completely detached from the support of the rosewood table and floated steadily in mid-air, enveloped by a layer of warm, jade-like, yet majestic and inviolable holy halo.

A magnificent, boundless, immortal, and indestructible aura, seemingly coexisting and breathing with the great Dao of Heaven and Earth, spread out like ripples, dominating all directions, yet strangely bringing peace and tranquility to all who sensed it, cleansing them of worldly cares and preventing the slightest evil thought.

Heavenly lightning tempers the precious scroll, imbuing it with spiritual power!
This long scroll of "The Peach Blossom Spring" is now far more than a simple work of calligraphy and painting by human hands!

It is a peerless treasure that has been actively recognized by the Heavenly Dao rules of this world and tempered by lightning tribulation. Its essence has been transformed, gaining a more magnificent and inviolable Heavenly Dao majesty and an eternal and immortal Dao charm!

Inside the hall, a deathly silence fell, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Civil and military officials, princes and nobles, scions of prominent families, and even palace guards standing with halberds.

Everyone was stunned by this scene, which far surpassed yesterday's and was like a myth reappearing. They were speechless and their hearts were pounding so hard they felt like they were going to burst out of their chests.

They had completely forgotten how to breathe, their pupils reflecting only the wondrous, radiant painting suspended in the air.

After a moment of deathly silence, there was a tremendous shock and uproar, like a long-suppressed volcano suddenly erupting!

"Heavenly lightning! Heavenly lightning tempering! It has triggered extraordinary phenomena in the heavens and earth!"

"Wenbao is spiritually connected!"

Do not!
This transcends spiritual communication; it is a divinely bestowed literary treasure!
It is a sacred artifact of literature, blessed and recognized by the will of Heaven—this is absolutely a literary treasure of the "world-renowned" level!

"The Peach Blossom Spring"!
The ideal pure land it depicts, with its inherent power of utmost goodness, can resonate with the will of Heaven, which sends down a lightning tribulation to forge its immortal essence!
Jiang Hanlin's writing and painting are no ordinary works; they almost rival the skill of sages!

Empress Wu Mingyue, seated on the Nine-Dragon Throne, suddenly leaned forward, her slender hands gripping the cold armrests of the dragon throne tightly, her knuckles turning slightly white from the extreme force.

Her stunningly beautiful face was filled with utter disbelief and shock.

But more than anything, it was an exciting and exhilarating discovery of an unprecedented treasure, witnessing firsthand the birth of yet another literary masterpiece that would be passed down through the ages!

As the Empress of the Great Zhou Dynasty, she was ordained by Heaven and held the reins of the state. She could sense more clearly than ordinary people that the floating scroll contained not only a vast and immortal literary spirit.

Furthermore, there is a grand aspiration that has received the deep blessings and support of the laws of heaven and earth, a peaceful force that can soothe the restless hearts of the people and stabilize the fortunes of the nation!

This item can be considered a sacred artifact for protecting the nation!
The five great scholars were so moved that they could hardly contain themselves and were almost in tears.

Today's question setter, the great Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang, suddenly jumped up from his seat, disregarding even the most basic official etiquette. His old face turned as red as blood, and his snow-white beard trembled violently.

He pointed to the radiant, suspended scroll, his voice hoarse and trembling with extreme excitement, almost a shout:

"The Pure Land manifests!"
This is the supreme Daoist essence of the ideal Pure Land, manifested in the world by the scholars of my Great Zhou!

"The significance of this painting and this text has long transcended the simple depiction of landscapes and figures!"
It outlines the ultimate yearning and collective subconscious of the Great Zhou people, which has been deeply rooted in their blood and soul since the time of their ancient ancestors, for a peaceful, harmonious, and utopian world!

This aspiration is vast, pure, and supremely good, aligning with the benevolent will of Heaven. Therefore, it resonates with the Heavenly Way, prompting it to send down a tribulation of lightning to temper it, shedding its mortal form and forging its eternal, immortal, and sacred essence!

"Gentlemen, please take a closer look at the world depicted in the painting. Although it is said that people went into seclusion to avoid the chaos of the Qin Dynasty, its social structure actually contains the ideal of a benevolent and virtuous political system!"
It is the ultimate embodiment of a society free from oppressive government and cruel officials, free from war and turmoil, where people live in prosperity and well-being, where everyone is happy and content, and where the world belongs to everyone!

This is the highest realm of using literature to convey the Way and painting to promote the Way; it is the ideal destination that we, as practitioners of literature and the Way, have pursued with all our life's blood!

Just as the scroll painting of "The Peach Blossom Spring" absorbed the heavenly thunder, its brilliance gradually subsided.

As it rose and fell gently like breathing, suspended in mid-air above the Wenhua Hall, it exuded an aura of immortality, peace, and near-sacred magnificence—

"Thump—! Thump—! Thump—..."

From the direction of the Confucian temple in the center of Los Angeles, where sages and philosophers of past dynasties are enshrined, the vast, magnificent, and soul-cleansing sound of the bells rang out once again without warning!
Seven resounding booms followed, each one deep and resonant, like an ancient proclamation, the sound waves washing over the entire capital!

"As expected, it is [spread throughout the world]!"
Seven chimes!

Exactly the same as yesterday!

Inside the hall, an official could no longer contain himself and cried out in alarm, his voice trembling with excitement.

"Do not!

Articles spread throughout the world, paintings spread throughout the world!
This...this is a masterpiece of both literature and art, reaching the level of being "spread throughout the world"!
[Dual Transmission Across the World], unheard of!

Another elderly minister, his hair and beard white, spoke in a trembling voice, his cloudy eyes filled with boundless shock and joy, as if he had witnessed the beginning of a golden age of literature and scholarship.

The entire Wenhua Hall fell into an extreme, almost frozen, deathly silence.

Everyone's eyes were drawn to the floating painting as if by a magnet, their minds completely captivated by the natural, peaceful, and idyllic paradise depicted in the painting, forgetting where they were.

However, an even more unbelievable, dreamlike scene followed!
On the scroll, at the entrance to the secluded mountain wall where peach blossoms were hidden and vines hung, the narrow crevice that Jiang Xingzhou had painted with exquisite brushstrokes, "as if there was light," was now shining brightly!

A soft and steady white light burst forth from it, quickly condensing and stabilizing to form a clearly visible, gently rippling elliptical light gate!
A surge of spiritual energy, ten or even a hundred times stronger than that inside the hall, mixed with the unique fresh fragrance and vitality of peach blossoms, emanated from the light gate like a warm tide, instantly enveloping the entire Wenhua Hall!

"This radiance...this talent, solid as a tangible substance!...This is not a simple manifestation of a painting or a literary phenomenon, this is..."

An elderly prince, a man of great learning who had read royal archives, suddenly stood up from his seat, so excited that his crown, a symbol of his status, tilted slightly and his beard trembled violently.

"This is a real, blessed land that can accommodate living beings, created by using the artistic conception of the painting!"

Jiang Xingzhou stood before the strange gate of light, his literary aura resonating with that of the painting, radiating a similar brilliance.

He calmly turned around, facing the Empress on the throne, whose phoenix eyes were wide open and whose expression of astonishment could not be concealed. He then bowed to the five great Confucian scholars who were so excited that they could hardly contain themselves, as well as the civil and military officials who were stunned in the hall.

He laughed loudly, his voice clear and melodious: "This painting is newly completed, and the grotto-heaven is just beginning to open."

"Would Your Majesty and gentlemen have the honor of accompanying this boat to this Peach Blossom Spring, to witness its beauty firsthand?"

Having said that, he didn't wait for anyone's response, as if he was certain that no one could resist such a temptation.

He turned around first, his clothes fluttering, and took a step forward.

Jiang Xingzhou's figure disappeared without any hindrance into the light gate at the entrance of the mountain wall.

Empress Wu Mingyue took a deep breath, and the shock on her beautiful face gradually faded, replaced by a burning light of discovering a rare treasure and witnessing the auspicious signs of the holy dynasty.

She rose gracefully, her phoenix robe trailing on the ground, her voice carrying an undeniable authority and a hint of barely perceptible excitement:
"My lords, this is a rare opportunity."

"Come with me and witness firsthand the 'Shangri-La' that Minister Jiang has created with her extraordinary talent!"

The five great scholars were already itching to answer, especially Zheng Shouchang, the one who set the questions. He had barely finished speaking when he followed Jiang Xingzhou and disappeared into the light gate.

Immediately afterwards, driven by immense shock, boundless curiosity, and a near-pilgrimage-like devotion, the officials of the Great Zhou Dynasty suppressed their wildly beating hearts and stepped one by one into the mysterious portal where light and shadow flowed.

We passed through a short passage that appeared to have no end and was bathed in soft light.

Everyone felt enveloped in a warm and pure aura of talent.

The next moment, everything suddenly opened up before me!
A refreshing and intensely rich aura of nature, almost like liquid mist, wafted towards me.

Everyone who steps into this place, regardless of their level of cultivation, feels their every pore involuntarily open up, greedily breathing in the spiritual energy that rivals that of ancient sacred cultivation sites.

Before them lay a secluded valley, spanning more than ten miles in circumference.

The sky is not the blue sky and white clouds of the outside world, but it has its own kind of clear, lofty, bright and warm connotation, like the finest spiritual jade.
The land is flat and fertile, the houses are neat and orderly, and fertile fields, beautiful ponds, mulberry trees and bamboo groves dot the landscape. The paths crisscross the land, and the sounds of chickens and dogs can be heard everywhere.

Everything was exactly the same as in the painting.
But at this moment, everything is full of real, vibrant life force, with lush vegetation and crystal-clear water.

"The talent here... is so rich and pure! It's simply unbelievable!"

The great Confucian scholar Zheng Shouchang reached out his hand in disbelief.

A light drizzle began to fall from the sky.

He caught a drop of rain; the rainwater was slightly warm to the touch and crystal clear.

Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a natural condensation of the purest and most exquisite natural energy!

"My God! Talent transforms into rain, nourishing all things silently! What... what a sacred place for cultivation this is!"

Another great Confucian scholar, deeply moved by the profound wisdom of heaven and earth, trembled with emotion, almost bursting into tears.

"Such a stable, naturally formed, and talented blessed land could not be created by anyone other than a great Confucian scholar who would have devoted his entire life to it and even sacrificed his lifespan!"

This place is more than ten miles in circumference, with a stable internal space and self-consistent laws, making it a giant blessed land.

This is an unparalleled treasure trove for great Confucian scholars to cultivate in seclusion and attempt to attain sainthood!

"A day of cultivation here, with focused meditation, can probably be as effective as a month of arduous training outside!"

Everyone focused their attention on sensing the sensation, and all of them showed expressions of ecstatic joy.

For cultivators of literature and Taoism, this is an unparalleled treasure that they dream of and can only dream of!
At this moment, the lifelike villagers in the painting, upon seeing so many outsiders enter, are not alarmed at all; instead, they show a simple and natural look of surprise and delight.

They all put down their work and warmly came forward, bowing and inviting him.

They were dressed in simple, ancient clothes, and looked relaxed and content. They said that their ancestors had led their wives, children and fellow villagers to this secluded place to escape the chaos of the Qin Dynasty. They never left again and were thus cut off from the outside world, knowing nothing of the Han Dynasty, let alone the Wei and Jin Dynasties.

His tone was calm and detached, as if the changes of the world over a thousand years were but a fleeting moment in his presence.

The villagers were warm and hospitable. They immediately slaughtered chickens and fish, took out their homemade sweet fruit wine, and set up a sumptuous and natural feast under the lush peach trees to sincerely entertain these "uninvited guests" from the outside world.

During the banquet, food and drink were served in baskets and jugs.

The villagers and guests were filled with laughter and joy, enjoying themselves immensely.

It seemed as if everyone had truly escaped the strife of the court and the hustle and bustle of the world, immersing themselves in the unique peace and harmony of this ideal sanctuary.

After a long while, Jiang Xingzhou, the Empress, the great Confucian scholar, and the officials finally enjoyed the magnificent scenery and feast in this ideal paradise that made them linger. Satisfied, they returned to the Wenhua Hall through the light gate at the entrance of the valley.

The figures of the officials were once again frozen in the familiar Wenhua Hall, as if from another world.

Looking back, the splendor of the "Peach Blossom Spring" scroll has completely faded.

Slowly drifting down, it lay flat on the rosewood table, and the scenery in the painting seemed to have gained a more lively and vibrant vitality and an indescribable charm than before.

Zheng Shouchang stared intently at the painting.

His expression shifted from initial shock and exploration of the wonders of heaven and earth, to the agitation and resonance he felt while immersed in the painting, and finally culminated in a long sigh filled with endless complex emotions.

His eyes flickered with a mixture of longing and nostalgia for that brief haven of peace, extreme admiration for Jiang Xingzhou's ability to create such a miracle, and a touch of awe at something so unattainable.

Furthermore, deeply moved by the sublime and beautiful artistic conception in the painting, they have profoundly reflected on and realized their own path and political philosophy.

"The Peach Blossom Spring"!
Living in seclusion, finding joy and contentment...

He murmured softly, his voice not loud, but clearly heard by everyone in the silence of the hall: “This is not a passive retreat from the world, but rather the eternal pursuit and unwavering guardianship of the soul for the ultimate goodness, beauty, peace and harmony.”

He raised his head, his gaze deep, slowly sweeping over the peaceful countryside, the joyful people, and the flourishing peach orchards in the painting, finally looking intently at the handsome young scholar before him who had already created one miracle after another.

"The painting depicts a peaceful and serene scene with profound meaning, reaching a state of perfection."

"Jiang Hanlin was able to achieve this at the height of his power, fame, and success."
"In my heart, I can still cherish and depict this pure and beautiful land that cannot be tainted by worldly affairs, never forgetting the sincere origin of my literary heart, and not being enslaved or swayed by external fame..."

Zheng Shouchang's voice suddenly rose, carrying the solemnity and power of a final decision, echoing in the quiet Wenhua Hall:

"This painting, this scene, is far more than a simple display of brush and ink techniques."

It is a true expression of the creator's heart and mind, and a concrete outline of his ideals and spiritual home!
The world depicted in the painting, though seemingly illusory and ethereal, embodies the core principles of benevolent governance and the ultimate aspiration for the well-being of the people—the very highest realm that we scholars and rulers should strive to pursue and practice throughout our lives!

"This old man,"

The erudite scholar Zheng Shouchang paused, straightened his clothes, and bowed deeply to Jiang Xingzhou, and even more so to the Empress on the throne, whose gaze was fixed intently on her, and to his colleagues who were listening attentively throughout the hall. He performed a very solemn scholar's salute.

"I am extremely satisfied with this painting, this article, and this action! I am completely convinced!"
This is not merely the glory of Jiang Hanlin, but a sign of the revival of literature and morality in our Great Zhou Dynasty, and a blessing for all people under heaven!

Inside the hall, the learned scholars and officials were engaged in lively discussions, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Empress Wu Mingyue sat upright on the dragon throne, her phoenix eyes fixed on the scroll of "The Peach Blossom Spring" on the table, its brilliance almost overflowing with longing.

It is not only a powerful magical artifact, but also a portable pure land for cultivation, a blessed land.

One could provide her with a peaceful haven amidst the complexities of state affairs.

However, she had just borrowed the original copy of the "Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion" yesterday under the pretext of "studying calligraphy".

How could she possibly ask again to borrow a treasure of the "world-renowned" level? As the supreme ruler, she couldn't bring herself to do it...

"Ugh……"

A barely audible sigh rose in her heart.

Her gaze shifted slightly, glancing at Nangong Wan'er, the lady-in-waiting standing to the side, her eyes conveying a clear and unmistakable signal:
"Wan'er, it is inconvenient for me to speak."

"This matter...why don't you borrow it?"

When Nangong Wan'er received the Empress's "eager" gaze, she immediately felt miserable, and her pretty face almost showed a tearful expression.

Your Majesty, you really think highly of me!
Nangong Wan'er sighed inwardly.

Although she and Jiang Xingzhou had a "close relationship".

That is a peerless literary treasure, renowned for both its literary and artistic value!

How much face does she have to ask to 'borrow'?
Under heaven, who else besides Your Majesty has the qualifications and the confidence to say this?
Even those highly respected Confucian scholars, such as Zhou Pu and Zheng Shouchang, would never have made a request to "borrow" such a spiritually advanced and world-renowned literary treasure.

So she could only lower her eyes slightly, avoiding the Empress's gaze, and shake her head almost imperceptibly, indicating that she could not do it.

Seeing this, a hint of helplessness flashed in the Empress's eyes, knowing that this matter could not be forced.
She could only turn her burning gaze back to the scroll of "The Peach Blossom Spring," pondering how she could see this peerless literary treasure, renowned for both its literary merit and artistic value, more often in the future.

(End of this chapter)