Chapter 551

The story of *Sword Snow Stride*, up to this point, has primarily focused on two intertwined aspects: the imperial court and the martial arts world (Jianghu). The martial arts world is a vast realm, filled with both swift acts of revenge and retribution, and countless joys and sorrows. Its endless bizarre and fantastic elements are worth savoring, but just as the saying goes, "martial arts practitioners grow old in the Jianghu," this world cannot interfere with national affairs, cannot stabilize the empire, nor can it bring peace to the land. Therefore, the novel depicts many scholars who, with their spirit and integrity, uphold a martial arts world that influences the entire realm.

Here, I want to discuss those scholars who truly grasped the profound essence of their studies, not the pedantic ones who merely cram knowledge, are adept at rhetoric, only criticize others, and though they may write a thousand words, have no practical strategy in their minds. Although such individuals constitute the majority of scholars, they alone cannot uphold the backbone of the literati.

Among all the scholars depicted in *Sword Snow Stride*, if one were to choose a preeminent figure, I believe it would be Huang Longshi, also known as Huang Sanjia. The author, Feng Huo, directly attributed to Huang Longshi the grand aspiration of scholars: "To establish a heart for Heaven and Earth, to establish a destiny for the common people, to continue the lost teachings for past sages, and to bring peace to all generations." The remarkable thing is that Huang Longshi truly achieved this. First, he straightened the crooked spine of the Spring and Autumn scholars, then he shackled the martial practitioners of that era who relied on force to flout prohibitions. He almost single-handedly overturned the cosmic order, and then clearly established the standoff between two dynasties, leading to the three-way division among Liyang, Liang, and Mang, meticulously planning every step. I imagine any scholar would aspire to Huang Longshi's achievements and wish to become a second Huang Longshi. Huang Longshi strategized for the world, embodying the spirit and integrity of a scholar, thus making him the undisputed foremost scholar.

Similar to Huang Longshi, the national scholar Li Yishan also exemplifies the integrity of a scholar. Li Yishan's most illustrious years were spent following Xu Xiao in his southern and northern campaigns, unifying the entire land. As the saying goes, "the highest virtue is establishing morality, followed by establishing achievements." Li Yishan undoubtedly made immense contributions, making him a paragon of scholars in peacetime. However, this was not all. In the nearly two decades that followed, Li Yishan confined himself to the first floor of Listening Tide Pavilion, tirelessly working for Beiliang's foundation, ensuring its stable position between the two nations. Anticipating the impending war with Beimang, Li Yishan laid a solid and stable foundation for Beiliang. This truly exemplifies a scholar governing a state. If Beiliang were to withstand Beimang's million cavalry on behalf of the Central Plains, Li Yishan's contribution would certainly be paramount. Sadly, this generation's hero died without a proper burial.

If Li Yishan is the paragon of scholars in peacetime, then Yuan Benxi, the sixty-seventh son, should be considered the grandmaster of scholars in governance. Perhaps many do not hold Mr. Yuan, with his half-tongue, in high regard. However, as everyone serves their own master, Yuan Benxi, as a strategist for the Zhao family, despite many acts that harmed the Xu family, his extraordinary talent remains undeniable. Let's examine what Yuan Benxi accomplished: he orchestrated the downfall of the Xu family, plotted against the Sword Immortal Wu Su, and assisted the former emperor in unifying the four seas. He then planned the enthronement of the new Liyang emperor, leading the emperor to admit, "I was merely Mr. Yuan's puppet." He promoted Zhang Julu, appointed the new crown prince, and used the facade of valuing Jin Lanting to conceal Song Keli, his chosen successor for the prime minister role, thus assisting the current Liyang emperor in governing the land. Had he not died prematurely, the direction of Liyang's imperial court for the past twenty years, and potentially the next twenty, would have remained in his hands. Such a figure truly deserves the title "outstanding talent" and is undoubtedly a model for scholars across the land.

Beyond Liyang, Beimang certainly has its own national scholars. Taiping Ling of the Chess-Sword Music Pavilion carried the banner for Beimang's literati. In Xu Fengnian's words, "Taiping Ling is a formidable man." Recalling his humiliation by the empress, he spent twenty years without a word, traveling the world, observing the public sentiment of both dynasties, intending to use the two nations as a chessboard to annex Liyang and Beiliang, and to contend with Huang Longshi. I must admit, I was truly astonished when I read about him and the empress in the Beimang imperial palace, creating a vast painting from a hundred pieces of silk, pointing out mountains and rivers, discussing all the world's affairs, aiming to "buy Tai'an in black and white" (a chess metaphor for strategic control). Ancient people praised scholars by saying "they hold the world in their hearts," and I believe this truly embodies that sentiment. What immense ambition it must take to encompass the entire world within one's grasp? Like an old steed in the stable, his ambition still spans a thousand *li*. Taiping Ling of the Chess-Sword Music Pavilion is also a truly great Confucian scholar, possessing profound integrity and spirit.

Alongside these four contemporary masters are also "Yang Cai" Zhao Changling, Beimang's Xu Huainan, and of course, Nalan Youci. All of these individuals were renowned predecessors from the Spring and Autumn period. Upholding the integrity of their predecessors, they supported the backbone of scholars, spiritedly turning the world upside down, like brilliant stars in the night sky. They are true great Confucian scholars. Great Confucian scholars could not only govern but also possessed great talent in martial arts. Among them were Cao Changqing and Xuanyuan Jingcheng.

In Chinese chess, the "advisor" (士) piece typically does not leave its nine-palace square, but if there's no one else to fight, the advisor must step out. Confucian Saint Cao Changqing was precisely like this. Cao Changqing's life was full of tribulations, yet he managed to transform his grievances into the path of a Confucian Saint. As the saying goes, "Though there are thousands against me, I shall go forth." After the fall of Western Chu, Cao Changqing entered Tai'an City four times, confronting the emperors of two dynasties alone, causing such turmoil that the Liyang emperor found no peace even in sleep. This man in green robes planned for many years, found Jiang Ni, and painstakingly sought to restore his fallen kingdom. Cao Changqing willingly confined himself to one nation, dedicating his entire being to the restoration of Western Chu, even defying fate. His scholarly elegance was unparalleled, and the grand spirit of Confucianism lived on through him. Confucian Saint Cao Changqing, who singularly embodied the vastness of the heavens and an abundance of scholarly grace, truly deserved the title "backbone of scholars," capable of inspiring a sense of courage in the petty, pedantic scholars of the world.

Like Cao Changqing, there is another scholar in the book who attained enlightenment through study, sacrificing his life to achieve the pseudo-realm of a "Land Immortal": Xuanyuan Jingcheng. If Cao Changqing is described as desolate, then Xuanyuan Jingcheng should be characterized as tragic and heroic. This man, who confined himself to a single mountain, had a wife and daughter, yet they were estranged from him throughout his life. Ultimately, his family was broken, his wife and daughter separated, and his household destroyed. One could say he lived a life of unfulfilled ambition, yet it was this very man who uttered the profound words, "Ants shaking a mighty tree—admirable, though they overestimate themselves." In the end, he sacrificed himself, clearing away the accumulated dust from his family. Cultivating oneself lies in rectifying one's heart. This scholar truly interpreted the meaning of "Do not say scholars lack courage; they dare to command heaven and earth to sink into the sea." With such a Confucian scholar present, how many would dare call themselves a sage?

Since there are scholars who strategize for the nation in peacetime and master Confucian Saints who achieve greatness through their studies, there are also those who resolve the world's affairs for their monarchs and earn renown for themselves, both in life and after death. These scholars, dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to the "chessboard" of politics and painstakingly entering the imperial court, may have a narrower scope compared to the first two types, but they are truly the ones who can leave a lasting mark in historical records. However, these individuals vary greatly in character and integrity. For example, Zhang Julu, Lu Feichi, Heng Wen, Yao Baifeng, and that detestable Jin Lanting.

As the Grand Secretary chosen by Yuan Benxi, Zhang Julu undoubtedly made immense contributions to Liyang. His strategic deployment in the northern borders secured Liyang's advantage over the north; his establishment of imperial examinations opened a path for impoverished scholars across the land. Every single one of his actions was a grand and impactful maneuver. In fact, I've always believed Zhang Julu's prototype is Zhang Juzheng. Thus, although Zhang Julu enjoyed immense wealth and power during his lifetime, holding the highest position among officials, his family might be confiscated and exterminated after his death. However, Zhang Julu himself understood all of this and had no regrets. Regardless, Zhang Julu is a model strategist for emperors, a loyal minister who considered the nation's welfare, a great Confucian scholar concerned about the country and its people, possessing his own distinct spirit.

For scholars, there are three imperishable achievements: establishing virtue, establishing merit, and establishing renown. However, very few can truly achieve both virtue and merit. Most aim for renown; if renown is not possible, then seeking lasting wealth and benefiting their descendants is also considered good. Lu Feichi is an outstanding figure among them. This old man, who navigated the ups and downs of officialdom and wielded influence in the imperial court his entire life, managed to leave a long-lasting legacy of blessings, arguably through countless struggles akin to "bloodless clashes of swords and shadows." He was the exact opposite of Zhang Julu; although both held the highest positions among officials, their fates and those of their descendants were utterly different. Such is the nature of an "officialdom tumble-toy." He can be considered a template for scholars seeking to secure lasting benefit for their families through official careers.

Ancient people, when praising scholars who excelled in their studies and sought official careers, would say, "One who excels in learning should become an official." The difference between the unpretentious old man, Heng Wen, and the previous two (Zhang Julu and Lu Feichi) lies in the fact that he truly embodied "excelling in learning to become an official." He could serve admirably as a distinguished leader in the Imperial Academy and also as the Left Vice Minister of the Chancellery. Elder Heng was at ease in advancing or retreating, remaining consistent for decades, letting go of many opportunities, but once his moment arrived, no one could stop him. This was Elder Heng's astute quality: a shrewd, academic-oriented official. Even more commendable is that Heng Wen, despite knowing that the emperor and scholars throughout the land did not favor Beiliang, could still speak a few good words for Beiliang (though he no longer does so and even sets obstacles). This truly demonstrates the integrity of a scholar: to act as conscientiously as possible and not harm others, which is truly invaluable.

While scholars may excel in academics, they do not necessarily make good officials; Yao Baifeng is an example. Yao Baifeng's archetype is somewhat complex, akin to several successors of Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism combined into one person. He was excellent at scholarly pursuits, truly had his own views on matters, and could be said to act conscientiously, fairly, and selflessly. Furthermore, he could selflessly promote younger scholars, which is highly commendable. However, as an official, he likely struggled to discern the intentions of his superiors and was prone to falling into political schemes. Nevertheless, a figure like him, when leading scholars, would naturally stand out among his peers and rectify the hearts of the literati. Yao Baifeng possessed the demeanor of a national scholar.

"Those who uphold justice are often commoners, while those who betray trust are frequently scholars." This saying perfectly applies to Jin Lanting. One could say that this person represents a large group of ancient Chinese scholars: during his life, he craved the highest official positions, and after death, he sought eternal renown. He was petty, ungrateful, cold-hearted, mean-spirited, utterly consumed by worldly desires, obsessed with fame and fortune, unable to extricate himself. This type of person is commonly found among scholars, and the author's portrayal is exceptionally vivid and precise. He is the quintessential "weathercock," swaying with the wind—truly a despicable character. If scholars were all to read the sages' classics in such a manner (meaning, to completely disregard their teachings), it would truly mean the downfall of the Divine Land.

Among the scholars mentioned above, some strategized for their monarchs, some for themselves, and some for their descendants. However, only Huang Longshi planned for the common people of the world, seeking victory amidst chaos. The only other person who, like Huang Longshi, truly considered the welfare of all people was Xun Ping, which is why I will discuss Xun Ping separately.

"Fifty years of grand achievements, told to mountain spirits." Indeed, all honors will eventually fade, regardless of fame, fortune, or splendor. It is not easy to see through these illusions. Xun Ping was such a remarkable individual. Not every scholar can grasp the simple truth that "scholars merely add icing to the cake, while martial artists provide timely help to the common people in times of need." More often, they despise martial artists, look down on everything, hold themselves in high regard, speak eloquently on classical texts, believe they possess great talent for governance, yet are terrified by war drums on the battlefield—the pathetic, pedantic scholars that they are. They only engage in superficialities, whereas Xun Ping achieved the simple yet difficult task of being practical and seeking truth. How many, serving as officials for a thousand *li* merely for wealth or to fulfill the monarch's ambitions, are willing to sacrifice themselves for the welfare of the world's common people? Xun Ping sacrificed his young life, leaving a legacy of peace for future generations. His great virtue spread far and wide, benefiting all living beings. Xun Ping was a saint.

A family needs heirs to continuously prosper and expand its influence. The same applies to scholars: Huang Longshi's generation established the great achievements of scholars in peacetime, illuminating history for a thousand years; Zhang Julu's generation made contributions to governance, carrying the banner for scholars. Thus, a younger generation of scholars is also needed to further develop Confucianism. These include Lu Xu, Song Keli, Xu Beizhi, and Chen Liangxi.

Lu Xu is no ordinary scholar; he is truly exceptional. He is the only one Nalan Youci would persuade Yuan Benxi to take as a disciple to inherit his mantle. In my opinion, Lu Xu's archetype somewhat resembles Jia Xu, the "poisonous strategist." Though his family was ruined by others, making him ruthless towards himself, he remains a truly gentle and refined gentleman, never contentious or argumentative. This blind man, however, possessed a clear mind, earning the trust of the old Prince of Jing'an, Zhao Heng, who entrusted him with his son, and the new Prince of Jing'an, Zhao Xun, who relied on him as a confidant. With just a few minor stratagems, he brought down the deeply entrenched Song family, a titan of the literary world. Among the younger generation, no one surpasses him in wisdom and stratagem. Lu Xu is currently writing a work titled *The Remedy*, leaving behind a classic for future generations, comparable to *Zizhi Tongjian* (Comprehensive Mirror in Aid of Governance). He can be considered Nalan Youci's successor.

Song Keli, the young phoenix of the Song family, a scholar whose family was ruined by Lu Xu's schemes, experienced early success before falling from grace into a period of adversity. Under Yuan Benxi's guidance, he then went to the provinces to diligently cultivate himself in public service. This path bears a remarkable similarity to Zhang Julu's twenty years of dispassionate observation in the central government. After experiencing great ups and downs, Song Keli developed a refined, subdued demeanor. In fact, Song Keli was likely Yuan Benxi's chosen heir apparent for the prime minister role, a hidden move revealed twenty years later. He should be able to take up the banner of Zhang's faction, representing a scholar governing the world.

Xu Xiao had the "yin talent" Li Yishan and the "yang talent" Zhao Changling. Xu Fengnian, in turn, gained Xu Beizhi and Chen Liangxi. Based solely on his insights into the "realms" of officials, Xu Beizhi can be called an extraordinary talent with profound understanding of worldly affairs. Currently, Xu Beizhi has ascended to the position of Prefect of Lingzhou in Beiliang, and it's likely that in a few more years, he will take Li Gongde's place. Xu Beizhi possesses pride but is not arrogant; he is capable of planning grand affairs, upholding the backbone of aristocratic families. Chen Liangxi, on the other hand, comes from humble scholarly origins. He appears reclusive but can focus on minute details, seeing the greater picture in small things. So many of Beiliang's governance and pacification strategies have come from his hand, and the current military rank reform is his doing. With such examples, impoverished scholars throughout the land gain hope, much like Li Yishan, who confined himself to the first floor. He fostered the integrity of scholars from humble backgrounds across the realm.

There are tens of millions of scholars in the world, if not more. Yet, only a handful can truly uphold the integrity and backbone of the literati. Currently, the descriptions of Xu Beizhi and Chen Liangxi in the book are still too superficial, which is why I have discussed them together. There are many other individuals I haven't mentioned due to the limitations of my own ability. This concludes my discussion.

From reader: Pangu Taiqing Z! (qududu.cm)

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