Linhua County · West River Town · Yu Residence
Night had fallen, but one courtyard in the Yu Residence remained brightly lit, with lanterns glowing even at its entrance.
Near this courtyard lay a small lake fed by flowing water. Since it lay within the grounds of the Yu Residence, a pavilion had been built over it, with a bridge connecting it to the shore. Though mosquitoes were plentiful in summer, thin curtains hung around the pavilion, and incense kept the insects away. Out over the water, it was wonderfully cool. When a breeze stirred the curtains, it felt even more refreshing than sitting indoors with a basin of ice.
Because of the heat, Yu Lü, Zhang Sheng, and Fang Xi had asked the servants to prepare the pavilion at short notice, moving from the courtyard to this little retreat on the lake.
Three lamps shone inside the pavilion, while lanterns swayed in the breeze at its four corners. It was even brighter here than in the courtyard.
Yu Lü gazed through the curtains at the little lake outside. The lovely scenery seemed to clear his mind, making his studies yield twice the result for half the effort.
The three still followed the method Su Ziji had taught them, taking turns reading aloud while the others "listened" to the books. After several rounds each, Yu Lü set down the volume in his hands. "We've finished this book. Let's rest a moment. How about... composing some poetry?"
"Poetry sounds good!" Fang Xi picked up his teacup from beside him, gulped it dry, and wiped his mouth. "I already have one. What about you two?"
Yu Lü smiled. "With scenery this fine, I do indeed have a poem ready!"
Even Zhang Sheng was no longer the struggling student he had once been.