Chapter 147: This World Does Not Hurt

Confucian scriptural interpretation, much like Buddhist doctrinal exposition, is not merely reading or reciting. Such profound understanding can only be achieved by great sages. Yet, the impoverished scholar before His Royal Highness dared to criticize Yao Bai, a renowned Neo-Confucian master famed for his interpretations, which was in itself an act of utter defiance.

As for the ambition of posthumously receiving the title "Wenzheng," it was even more astonishing. Even Yu Jiankang, an esteemed elder from Yangzhou, merely hoped for the title "Wenzhong" after his death, considering it great fortune. After the chaos of the Spring and Autumn period and Liyang's rise to power, clear regulations were established for posthumous titles granted to subjects. "Wenzheng" was the highest honor for civil officials, but this title had remained vacant for a century. "Wenzhen" followed closely, and the entire court and public considered it to be Grand Tutor Zhang Julu's eventual possession. Next in line were titles like Zhong, Duan, Kang, and Yi. Since "Wenzheng" and "Wenzhen" were beyond reach, "Wenzhong" became the most intensely coveted desire for various regional lords and top civil officials within the dynasty. In the current world, the hierarchy of aristocratic families was often determined by the number and weight of their posthumous titles, making it an extremely important standard. No ordinary scholar, not even a reclusive maverick, would dare to declare that they should be posthumously titled "Wenzheng."

Once exposed, such an ambition would be considered, at best, a moral failing; at worst, it could lead to imprisonment. The scholar, who had been heartbroken when his "Collected Annotations on the Four Classics" fell into the water, was clearly from a humble background. His initial panic at having his secret revealed quickly passed, and he soon regained his composure, calmly resuming his chilled watermelon. Xu Fengnian, having seen through his thoughts, did not press his advantage. Instead, the mention of posthumous titles stirred his own reflections. While civil officials naturally prized these honors, military officers and their achievements were no exception. Fewer titles were specifically paired with military achievements, but there were still eighteen such titles, leading to the saying, "A true man should earn one of the eighteen." "Yi" reigned supreme, with the top nine being Yi, Lie, Ning, Jing, Ping, Xiang, Jing, Min, and Su. Rumor had it that Grand General Gu Jiantang had already been designated "Wujing," but the ultimate recipients of the "Yi," "Lie," and "Ning" titles remained a great mystery.

Unlike civil officials, military officers' posthumous titles were often lower in rank. Generally, achieving a place within the top nine was considered an immense honor. This was partly due to the ruling gentry's disdain for military families. Of course, if a military officer could receive a civil title, it was an even greater distinction. This privilege was reserved solely for military officers from prestigious families. For instance, Lu Baijie, the Tangxi Sword Immortal, who was able to enter officialdom, might even receive a civil-sounding posthumous title. Xu Xiao, however, never paid much attention to such matters, always saying that a decent, honorable title three generations later would be enough. This was because it was not uncommon for high-ranking court officials, no matter how favored or accomplished during their lifetime, to have their favorable posthumous titles retroactively changed to unfavorable ones after their death.

Xu Fengnian's absent-mindedness was broken by a burst of cheers from within Baoguo Temple. The debate on Kingship vs. Hegemony must have begun, and some esteemed scholar's remarks had clearly been well-received. Inside the temple, wine cups floated along a winding stream. Renowned scholars of "pure conversation" sat on mats along the corridors, following the water's course. When a cup drifted to someone, a beautiful maid would pick it up and present it to the debater. After drinking it, they could express their thoughts. If their words resonated and drew cheers, they could drink again. If their remarks were unremarkable, they had to drink three penalty cups. If someone stood up to refute them, the loser had to withdraw. Jiangnan held "pure conversation" in high regard, and all its masters were seasoned victors in such intellectual battles. Privately, people kept records of withdrawals. Lu Xuanlang of the Huting Lu clan had caused sixty-two people to withdraw and had never been defeated himself, firmly securing a spot among Jiangnan's top three esteemed scholars. However, the other two individuals who shared Lu Xuanlang's undefeated status were both present at today's debate on Kingship vs. Hegemony at Baoguo Temple, making it a truly rare and grand event. One was Yuan Jiangyan, who had caused over a hundred withdrawals and was hailed as "First of Jiangzuo," known for holding a deer-tail whisk and possessing an elegant, otherworldly demeanor. The other was the venerable Monk Yin Daolin from Baoguo Temple, respectfully known among scholars as "Monk Immovable." He rarely spoke, but when he did, he astonished. His two famous debates against Liu Yan and Lu Xuanlang—the "Marvel of I-Ching Images in Manifestation" and "Four Foundations of Talent and Nature" debates—both took place at Baoguo Temple. It could be said that Baoguo Temple's status as a sacred site for "pure conversation" in Jiangnan, besides its beautiful scenery and the thousands of peonies including the 'Weizi' and 'Yaohuang' varieties, was largely due to this old monk, renowned for his excellent reputation and refined elegance.

Xu Fengnian finished his watermelon and asked, "Do you want to participate in this debate? I hear winning even a few rounds is more useful than passing the imperial examinations."

The scholar, who had only taken a few bites of his watermelon, smiled and shook his head, self-deprecatingly replying, "I was once fortunate enough to participate. I was escorted out after only a few sentences. I don't know if I won or lost; probably lost. The Yuan clan scholar who debated me was likely recorded as having caused one withdrawal."

Xu Fengnian, catching sight of the female Daoist Xu Huipu emerging from Baoguo Temple and walking directly towards them, ignored her and smiled at the scholar before him. "Isn't that to be expected? I'm guessing you sat all alone during the debate?"

The Daoist nun, now closer, spoke up, "Your Highness guessed wrong this time."

Xu Fengnian's face lit up with understanding. "Sister Xu took him in?"

Daoist Xu Huipu nodded with a smile and explained, "Young Master Zhang is very learned, especially adept at the debate on Kingship vs. Hegemony, and possesses unique insights. He once entrusted me to explain military and political advantages and disadvantages to Xu Gong, summarized as the 'Memorial on Six Matters.' The Great General praised it as unconventional and truly remarkable."

Xu Fengnian gave a slightly surprised "Oh." During lunch, he had casually discussed Xu Huipu's family background with his elder sister, Xu Zihhu. The Gumu Xu clan relied on General Longxiang, Xu Gong, as its pillar. This general, who excelled in both pure conversation and military/political affairs, came from an aristocratic family. He oversaw military affairs in Jiangnan's three prefectures and commanded a presence much like a minor feudal lord. He implemented many sweeping reforms and rectified official corruption, which garnered mixed reviews. Xu Xiao, known for his discerning eye and high standards, had a good opinion of him, meaning he must be quite formidable. As for the "Memorial on Six Matters" that supposedly vanished in Yangzhou, even Xu Huipu herself might not believe it, but Xu Xiao had a copy in his study, personally marking many passages. He had even pounded the table in admiration regarding its suggestions on strengthening border defense and resolving financial shortages. Xu Fengnian had witnessed this himself, so its importance was undeniable.

On his way to Huting Commandery, he had specifically asked Lu Qiuer to obtain a copy, but he never expected it to be penned by the impoverished scholar before him. He wondered how Young Master Zhang was connected to Xu Huipu. A liaison between a noblewoman and a poor scholar was merely a romantic trope found in novels, especially unrealistic in Jiangnan, where social status and family background were so rigidly emphasized. This was likely why Wang Dongxiang's "First Snow" was particularly popular in Jiangnan's common markets. At the banquet, Xu Zihhu had frankly spoken of the intricate relationships between Xu Huipu, Lu Baijie, and the Lu, Yu, and Xu families. It was clearly impossible for this Daoist nun to have a romantic entanglement with the poor scholar. This made Xu Fengnian even more curious. Could this scholar truly be a great talent for statecraft? To come from a humble background yet possess such a strategic vision would indeed be extremely rare. Xu Xiao's two closest advisors back then, Zhao Guangling, "Yang Cai," and Li Yishan, "Yin Cai," were not from humble origins but were legitimate gentry.

Just as Xu Fengnian was about to offer polite greetings, he saw the Tangxi Sword Immortal appear. Xu Huipu immediately frowned, ignoring him. Lu Baijie gave a faint wry smile. The poor scholar, upon seeing one of the Lu family's "Seven Jewels of Splendor," did not humble himself and seemed not to be a stranger. He actively bowed, positioning himself as a junior relative. Such arrogance would surely infuriate other scholars. What kind of immortal figure was the Tangxi Sword Immortal? And who was this unknown nobody? How dared he not step aside? Wasn't he afraid of offending Master Lu Qi? However, Lu Baijie seemed to hold the scholar in high regard, offering a few genuine words of encouragement before turning to Xu Huipu. After a moment of hesitation, he said, "I need a word with you."

Xu Huipu scoffed, "Master Lu Qi has avoided me for so many years. Why the exception today?"

Xu Fengnian and the poor scholar both instinctively turned away, silently agreeing not to look or listen. The pair, who had caused a stir in Jiangnan years ago, were at an impasse. Ultimately, the female Daoist Xu Huipu conceded, walking with Lu Baijie along the quiet, deserted temple wall. Before leaving, Xu Huipu did not forget to bid farewell to His Royal Highness and told the scholar he might as well go participate in the temple's debate, as she had already spoken to Baoguo Temple, and no one would stop him. So only three remained by the spring. The scholar, whose surname was Zhang, frowned slightly. Xu Fengnian smiled, "My surname is Xu, and my given name is Dianxia. Dian as in 'classic,' Xia as in 'sword scabbard.' How do you like my name?"

The poor scholar smiled, "A classic in its scabbard cannot sing. Hmm, a good name."

Princess Jingan, Pei Nanwei, her face veiled, couldn't help but roll her eyes.

Xu Fengnian asked, "Since you've got permission, won't you go in to listen to the debate? As for me, I'm just a simpleton. Since Sister Xu says your talent is extraordinary, I'd like to bask in your glory and sit with you."

The scholar countered, "Sitting with me, aren't you afraid of being ridiculed by scholars and famous figures?"

Xu Fengnian's smile was odd. He didn't answer but turned to ask Princess Pei, "What do you say? Am I afraid?"

Princess Jingan, who had endured many hardships on the journey, dared not ignore the question. Her tone was stiff and cold, "No, he's not afraid."

Xu Fengnian was satisfied, smiling at the poor scholar. The latter sighed, nodded, put down the finished watermelon, picked up his sun-dried "Collected Annotations on the Four Classics" from the ground, and carefully tucked it into his sleeve. The three walked out from the cool shade of the ancient pine, heading towards Baoguo Temple: Xu Fengnian in the center, Princess Jingan on his left, and the poor scholar on his right, creating a distinct order. No sooner had the three left than Xu Fengnian saw a small girl, who had been lingering by the wall, scurry towards the spring. Earlier, because he was there, this emaciated, beggarly child hadn't dared to approach for shade and hid in the corner. After the three left, she finally mustered the courage to approach the spring under the tree. She first picked up the two watermelon halves and placed them on a rock by the spring. But after inadvertently making eye contact with Xu Fengnian, who had turned his head, the ragged little girl's face instantly went as white as snow. She quickly put the watermelon back. Seeing that the rich and imposing young master was not angry, she timidly squatted under the tree. The scholar, fearing that this gentry "scholar" — familiar with both Tangxi Sword Immortal and Xu Huipu — might be displeased, softly said, "This child is pitiful. She lives by begging, depending on her paralyzed grandfather. If not for her, the old man wouldn't have survived last winter. I taught her some characters so she could beg more cleverly. Alas, her grandfather must have had another attack; otherwise, she wouldn't be here at Baoguo Temple picking up copper coins. She never dares to pick up much, just a few coins, enough for half a basket of steamed buns, which is several days' food for her and her grandfather. As for that watermelon..."

Xu Fengnian said expressionlessly, "Watermelon rind can be sliced and stir-fried as a dish."

The poor scholar nodded, startled, "Yes, it can."

Princess Jingan must have heard for the first time that watermelon rind could be cooked, and she subconsciously took another look at the little girl.

The debate on Kingship vs. Hegemony at Baoguo Temple attracted many Jiangnan scholars. Those qualified to participate had already entered and taken their seats. Many ordinary scholars, whose backgrounds and reputations were insufficient, just came to join the excitement, lingering outside the temple. Under the Crouching Dragon Pine was a geomantically favorable spot, initially occupied by Xu Fengnian. A noble playboy like the Crown Prince, whose arrogance was evident without speaking, was clearly unapproachable. Since he had just emerged from the temple, the scholars outside had to stand far away. More often, they pointed and whispered about the "maid" whose face was obscured but whose figure was captivating, marveling at her beauty.

In this world, when wealthy families traveled, people usually observed their retinue and horses. As for respected scholars, people noted the beautiful women accompanying them. High-born Daoist nuns like Xu Huipu were considered top-tier and rarely encountered. Next were talented and beautiful courtesans, also top-tier, followed by young, attractive maids from one's own household; the more, the higher the status. Grandmasters of philosophical discourse in Jiangnan, such as Yuan Jiangyan of the Boling Yuan clan, once made a grand procession with nearly a hundred child attendants. Finally, Xu Fengnian vacated the spot, and several pairs of elegantly dressed young gentlemen and ladies immediately went there to cool off. The small beggar, who had rolled up her trousers to bend over and pick up coins in the spring pond, was undoubtedly an eyesore. A young man with triangular eyes sneered, extended his foot, and kicked the watermelon into the spring, splashing water everywhere. The soaked little beggar shivered with fright. She dared not pick up coins again. As she tried to dodge, hurrying too fast in the water, she accidentally stumbled and fell into the spring, provoking a burst of laughter. After a heavily made-up gentry woman laughed gleefully, she shrieked venomously, "You little bastard! Who told you to come here picking up wish coins? Aren't you afraid of being beaten to death by the monks?!"

The spring pool was surrounded by these pampered youths seeking shade. The little beggar had nowhere to hide. She could only stand in the water, eyes red, and lowered her head, saying, "The temple said it's fine as long as I only pick up a few coins each time."

The woman shrieked, "Still dare to talk back?"

In her fury, and with no outsiders present, she stopped pretending to be a noble lady. She picked up a stone from the ground and hurled it viciously. The little beggar instinctively dodged. The woman missed. Already irritated by being unable to enter the temple, she grew even angrier. She picked up an egg-sized stone and smiled darkly, "Still dare to dodge? If you dodge again, I'll break your legs!" She threw it with force, hitting the little beggar's chest with a thud. The young men and women around her applauded and praised her accuracy. The small girl's frail, stick-like body could not withstand such abuse. She swayed, her face contorted in pain, but still dared not dodge. Standing in the water, she said with a tearful voice, "I won't pick them up again, never again!" The young woman sneered and picked up more stones, distributing them to her friends, thinking it was more fun to play together. They prepared to play a game similar to arrow-throwing into a pot. Jiangnan literati traditionally enjoyed the custom of elegant songs accompanying "pot-throwing." Many famous scholars were skilled at blind throws over screens and reverse throws while sitting with their backs turned. General Longxiang, Xu Gong, could even fill a pot with over a hundred bamboo arrows, creating a sight like a dense forest or mountain of arrows. This pot-throwing was an evolution of "archery" from the Six Arts of the Gentleman and was very popular in Jiangnan. However, today the bamboo arrows were replaced by stones, and the ceramic pot became the little beggar, which seemed to the young gentlemen and ladies to be just as enjoyable. Those who got stones were eager, aiming. It seemed they didn't care if the small beggar's body could withstand a few throws. To Jiangnan scholars, killing a begging child was no big deal.

The poor scholar, who had already stepped inside Baoguo Temple's threshold, apologized under his breath, turned back, and ran towards them, shouting furiously, "Stop!"

At his shout, the noble youths paused, but only for a moment. Then they exchanged glances and burst into laughter, ignoring him. Two impatient young men, instead, threw stones at the little beggar in the water with increased force, one hitting her chest, the other her arm. The little beggar bit her lip, not daring to cry out, just squatting and curling up in the knee-deep, icy spring water. Where in the world is the human heart not colder than water? Yet, the agonizingly pained little beggar still forced out a pale smile and said to the poor scholar who had stood up for her, "Brother Zhang, it's okay. A few hits, it doesn't hurt."

It doesn't hurt.

Could it not hurt?

The poor scholar, who could stand neither humble nor arrogant before top Yangzhou figures like Lu Baijie and Xu Huipu, now jumped into the water, heedless of whether his sleeve-tucked classics would get wet. He shielded the little beggar, his face filled with sorrow, as he looked at the gentry youths who would live a life of comfort thanks to their families. His grief was greater than the death of his heart.

He didn't even question them.

The arrogant woman, who initiated the abuse, looked disdainful and spoke condescendingly, "And where did you come from, you lowly pig-dog?"

At that moment, a rich, deep voice came from behind the gentry youths, "This Crown Prince comes from Beiliang."