Eastward Departure, Westward Arrival

"Eastern Capital?"

Qiu Yan's doubts deepened, and he couldn't help but ask, "What does the Apricot Altar Dao Discourse have to do with the Eastern Capital?"

Ji Zheng replied, "This Apricot Altar Dao Discourse is not a recent phenomenon, but rather it has emerged because the Great Rui Dynasty is about to undergo a major upheaval. In this era of great contention, which school of thought in the world does not wish to participate? However, the person I asked is from the Eastern Capital, which is why you are required to go Eastern Capital. At that time, you will naturally be able to learn how the Apricot Altar Dao Discourse."

"An era of great strife?" Qiu Yan narrowed his eyes, his thoughts swirling. "This person arrived suddenly, and his words seemed abrupt, like a riddle being played, but..."

Thinking of this, he asked, "Who is this person who commissioned you, sir? Could you please tell me?"

Ji Zheng smiled and said, "I knew you would ask that, but it's not convenient for me to say right now. You'll know when you get to Eastern Capital."

At this point, he suddenly glanced at Qiu Yan several times, then added, "Also, there's something else I need to remind you. When you go to Eastern Capital, you might as well travel and learn from the common people." As he spoke, his expression changed slightly, taking on a serious tone. "If you don't understand the hardships of the common people, you can't write articles that truly touch their hearts, and how can you become famous throughout the land?"

"Oh?" Upon hearing this, Qiu Yan's eyelids twitched slightly. When she looked at Ji Zheng again, the solemn expression on the other's face had disappeared, replaced by a smile.

"Alright, I've said what I needed to say, and what I shouldn't have said. One last thing: if you're going to leave or travel for studies, you'd better set off as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might get caught up in unnecessary trouble."

As he spoke, the man crossed his arms and bowed to Qiu Yan, Zhang Yunling, and the others, saying, "I, Ji, will now take my leave."

After saying this, he calmly left with a flick of his sleeves. Even Zhang Yunling did not dare to say anything to stop him, but rushed up to see him off, looking very cautious.

"Walking among the people?"

Watching the other person's departing figure, Qiu Yan remained silent, his mind racing. Finally, he smiled and said, "If this person hadn't reminded me, I would have almost forgotten about this. Human Path Human Path indeed indispensable. Well, it's time to leave."

At this moment, Zhang Zhen approached and asked in a low voice with a curious expression, "Brother, Ji Zheng entrusted by someone? Who could possibly control the disciples of the Apricot Altar? Do you have someone in mind?"

Qiu Yan shook his head and said, "I have no clue either. We should be able to find out when we get to Eastern Capital."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Zhen was taken aback, then said, "So, my brother, you're planning to go?"

"Not bad." Qiu Yan nodded, then looked at Zhang Zhen and asked, "How about it? Brother Zhang, would you like to come with me?"

Zhang Zhen shook his head regretfully. "How can I go? I still need to study at home. The scroll of instructions you gave me is truly amazing. Memorizing the methods in it will make things twice as effective with half the effort. My father praised it highly after reading it and instructed me not to reveal it to anyone. Please rest assured, my dear brother."

Qiu Yan wasn't too surprised to hear this. "Stay and study? That's good. Brother Zhang will surely pass the imperial examination in three years."

Zhang Zhen smiled and shook his head, then skipped the topic and asked directly, "By the way, when does my brother plan to set off?"

Qiu Yan replied, "Since Ji Zheng has given me this reminder, I don't intend to delay. Naturally, the sooner the better. After attending Brother Luo's wedding, I will set off north."

"Then it'll be in the next day or two."

Qiu Yan nodded and smiled, "That's right. Brother Luo will definitely find it difficult to leave home at that time, but I can ask Zhou Guan."

Zhang Zhen looked longingly at him. "I'm truly envious. It seems I need to study hard for the next three years so I can find you all sooner." However, there wasn't much self-pity in his words.

After leaving the Zhang Residence, Qiu Yan first went to the Pan Household to visit his aunt before returning home.

Originally, Pan Xiang, the second young master of the Pan Household, intended to get to know Qiu Yan after the Provincial Examination. However, news came from the court that important figures from the New Party were pleading for him, so he hurriedly left and naturally did not have time to communicate with Qiu Yan. Thus, the matter came to an end.

Two days later, Qiu Yan packed his bags, bid farewell to his uncle's family, and, along with Hu Qi and Dai Guo, followed the Zhang Family's carriage eastward.

Luo Jiayun's ancestral home is Rongzhou Prefecture Jiannan Circuit Rongzhou Prefecture, which is located to the east of Yuanning Prefecture.

The Luo Family Village where the Luo family lived was not large, and most of the members were from clans, so the wedding was very lively. Luo Jiayun had now passed the imperial examination and become a scholar, which greatly increased his status in the Luo Clan, so naturally many people came to the wedding.

Qiu Yan and the others were Luo Jiayun's good friends. When they arrived, they helped carry vases, candles, and lampstands. Then, hired musicians played music and led the flower baskets to the girl's house.

The girl's family lived not far from the Luo family. They were outsiders who had moved there more than ten years ago, but her father had passed away early, so they had been engaged to the Luo family long ago. They had always helped the family and, together with Luo Jiayun's mother, supported Luo Jiayun's education.

Upon arriving at the bride's home, the family followed custom, presenting her with silver coins and lucky money. Musicians urged her to get ready, and when the time came, the bride boarded the carrying pole, accompanied by music, and returned to the groom's home.

Before we even entered the door, someone was scattering grains and beans towards the entrance with a flower basket, and young children were happily scrambling to catch them...

"What a lively scene! No wonder it's one of the three great joys of life." Looking at the sight, Zhang Zhen couldn't help but praise.

Zhou Guan, standing to the side, chuckled and said, "If Brother Zhang is envious, he can get married as soon as possible."

"Who knows, in another two years, it might be your turn to attend my wedding banquet," Zhang Zhen said without any ceremony, followed by some banter among his friends.

The bride was led to the ancestral hall, where portraits of the Luo family ancestors were displayed, along with incense, wine, and dishes. Luo's mother, dressed in a traditional Chinese dress, stood in the hall.

The officiant led the newlyweds to the hall. The master of ceremonies entered, burned incense, poured wine, prostrated, and stood up. The officiant knelt on the ground and announced, "The Luo Jiayun, on this auspicious day of this month, welcomes the bride Zhang Li to marry. This matter is reported to our ancestors."

This process, known as Ancestor Veneration the ancestors, involves informing them of the marriage of a descendant, so that they can rest in peace knowing that the family line continues and the bloodline is passed down.

In the crowd, Qiu Yan's eyebrows twitched slightly, revealing a look of surprise. He had actually caught wisps of Incense Faith from the hall. Although it was not strong, it was exceptionally pure, and he immediately seemed to be deep in thought.

In the hall, Mother Luo wept with joy. Looking at the perfect couple, tears streamed down her face. She had lost her husband in middle age and had raised Luo Jiayun with great difficulty. She had worked hard for half her life to support Luo Jiayun's education. Now that she had finally received her reward, she was naturally happy.

Luo Jiayun was also extremely excited.

This is followed by ceremonies such as holding hands, exchanging vows, and tying the knot. However, there is no custom of immediately entering the bridal chamber. The groom then changes his clothes and drinks with the guests.

Qiu Yan and the others were led to their seats. They were all successful candidates in the imperial Xiucai, and unlike the others, the elders of the Luo family clan all came over to greet them and talk to them before leaving after a long while.

"Brother Luo, you've finally seen the light at the end of the tunnel. I overheard the villagers talking and they told me that a few years ago, some of the Luo family's fertile land was taken away by their relatives. Now that he has passed the imperial examination, it has all been returned to him." Zhou Guan said in a low voice during the meal.

Upon hearing this, Zhang Zhen shook his head and said, "Then the Luo family is far too unruly. Our Great Rui is founded on filial piety and values mutual assistance among relatives. Isn't there something... what, my brother, what did that memorial say again?"

Upon hearing this, Qiu Yan laughed and said, "Brother Zhang, are you perhaps saying, 'If I have any surplus funds, I will use them to support the orphans, widows, and impoverished members of my clan'?"

"Not bad! You remember it clearly. This top scholar title wasn't won for nothing," Zhang Zhen slapped his thigh. "The clan is the foundation. Even if there are disagreements, they can't cut off a person's path in life." His face was full of dissatisfaction, as if it had stirred up memories deep in his heart.

"These are other people's family matters. As the saying goes, even an upright official finds it hard to settle family disputes," Qiu Yan shook his head. "It's still due to the Hard to Sever social atmosphere. If everyone had the concept of helping the needy and poor, it could be prevented. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done. Human hearts are unpredictable."

"That makes sense." Zhang Zhen also shook his head, thinking about something.

Seeing the strange expressions on the other people's faces, Qiu Yan changed the subject and asked Zhou Guan, "Brother Zhou, did you read the letter I sent you earlier?"

Upon hearing this, Zhou Guan looked ashamed and said, "I was just about to tell my brother about this. I originally planned to accompany Brother Qiu on his study tour, but my father intends for me to study at the Quanyou Academy. You know my situation at home, and for the sake of my mother, I have no choice but to obey my father's order."

"I see. It makes sense. To be able to enter the academy and receive the teachings of Grand Confucian is a joyous occasion. I'd like to offer you a toast as a way of celebrating your good fortune." He raised his wine cup as he spoke.

"Me too, to congratulate my worthy brother!" Zhang Zhen also raised his hand and raised his glass.

"Thank you both, brothers."

The three of them drank it all in one gulp.

Not long after, Luo Jiayun, looking radiant, came over, toasted several friends, and left after a while.

The Luo family was immersed in celebration all day, but as it got a little late, Luo Jiayun still took the time to come and see his friend off.

"Brother Qiu, it's time for us to part today. We'll have to wait until next February in Prosperity Capital to meet again," Zhou Guan said, looking at Qiu Yan.

The group said goodbye to Qiu Yan. After learning of Zhou Guan's decision, Qiu Yan told them that they would set off directly after the wedding.

"Was it a bit too hasty?" Luo Jiayun had drunk quite a bit and his head was spinning, but he still felt reluctant to see his friend leave.

Qiu Yan smiled and said, "I have to leave eventually. Starting from here will save me some trouble. Besides, I've already spoken to my family."

Zhang Zhen had met Ji Zheng before and knew a little about him, so he readily said, "Brother, you're right. Then I wish you a safe journey."

"Bon Voyage."

Take care.

Luo Jiayun and Zhou Guan also spoke up to say goodbye.

"Until we meet again, everyone!" Qiu Yan bowed and took his leave, then mounted his horse and rode off, with Hu Qi and Dai Guo following on horseback.

Watching Qiu Yan's departing figure, the remaining three felt a strange emotion welling up inside them.

Meanwhile, in Yuanning Prefecture, an old man arrived at the gate of Liu Huai's courtyard, followed by several Confucian scholars. One of them stepped forward and knocked on the door.

"Is Mr. Liu here? I am Zhang Zhi from the Quanyou Academy, and Teacher Zhao has come to pay a visit..." (To be continued...)