Bianjing, Peach Talisman Street.
The toad moon hung high, its clear radiance like gauze, gently draping this ancient street.
At the end of the street stood a towering building in silence. Facing south from the north, it was a five-story brick-and-timber structure with a hard-gable double-eaved design. Blue tiles layered over its sloping roof like scales.
They gleamed faintly beneath the moonlight, making it resemble a garden.
On Peach Talisman Street, whether they were common folk hurrying past or once-powerful officials and nobles, all bowed slightly upon reaching this place. Even members of the Nine Great Surnames, usually overbearing and arrogant, did not dare crack their whips and spur their horses here.
They too let their carriages proceed slowly. The dignitaries within lifted the curtains, their gazes silent and carrying an indescribable awe.
Even those spoiled young dandies did not dare behave outrageously here.
The reason was simple—a plain plaque hung above the vermilion gates.
Upon it were written two words:
"Academy."
There were no ornate embellishments, only those two simple words, yet they were enough to intimidate the powerful clans and noble houses scattered throughout Bianjing.
Ever since the Master had founded the Academy, this place had become a sacred land watched by all beneath heaven.
The Academy's four gentlemen were renowned throughout the land.
Layer upon layer of illustrious identities gathered here.
To the people of Great Qi, the two words "Academy" had long outweighed Mount Tai.
Peach Talisman Street was especially desolate today.
On ordinary days, long before midnight, the street would already be ablaze with lights. The fragrant smoke of every sort of snack stall filled the air, while children laughed and played as they ran through the crowds, creating a scene of boundless bustle.
Yet today, the street was bleak. There were few pedestrians, and