This time, Du Heng went alone to the county, sparing Qin Xiaoman the trouble of traveling back and forth.
If it had only been Qin Zhiyan inviting him for a meal, Xiaoman would have gone too. But this occasion was a banquet of sorts, and bringing Xiaoman might have been inconvenient.
Following the previous route, Du Heng drove his own ox cart. Perhaps he had been instructed beforehand, as the doorman was particularly attentive when he arrived.
As before, he was ushered into the hall.
“Master, Scholar Du has arrived.”
“Ah, you’re here. I was just waiting for you.”
Upon entering, Du Heng noticed two gift boxes on the table. Perhaps Qin Zhiyan had just inspected them; servants were rewrapping and bundling them.
Qin Zhiyan’s hair was neatly combed and shiny, a piece of raw jade attached to his left waist. Although Du Heng had only met him three times, the first two occasions had never seen him so formally dressed. He looked ready to go out.
Du Heng respectfully greeted, “Uncle.”
“Check the carriage harness and hurry Zhi Feng,” Qin Zhiyan instructed the servant, then addressed Du Heng: “We won’t be dining at home today. You’ll accompany me as a guest.”
Du Heng’s brow twitched slightly. He didn’t know whom he would meet, but he obediently followed Qin Zhiyan’s arrangement.
“Yes, sir.”
Qin Zhiyan scrutinized Du Heng briefly, frowning slightly.
Though mid-March weather was spring-like, it still carried a chill. Du Heng wore the same plain blue cotton garment he had on when visiting before the New Year. It wasn’t that the outfit was too thick—it was adequately warm—but its simplicity stood out at a formal visit.
Though Du Heng’s looks often drew praise, and the plain clothing enhanced his natural elegance, this was still a formal occasion, and the attire perhaps too modest for such a banquet.
Du Heng himself also came from a farming background, so he knew that such fabric would already be considered top-quality in the village. If it weren’t for visiting the city or important households, no one in the village would dare wear it. But village standards fell far short when applied to the county.
“Your build isn’t much different from Zhi Feng’s. He’s probably still getting ready. Go to his room and change your clothes,” Qin Zhiyan said.
Du Heng glanced at his attire. Compared to Qin Zhiyan’s formal dress, he immediately understood the implication. He wasn’t foolish enough to ask if his clothes were somehow soiled. Following Qin Zhiyan, he stepped forward obediently.
“You may feel that Uncle’s actions today offend your pride, thinking him petty, but we are visiting the Prefectural Tutor’s residence. There’s nothing wrong with your feelings, but in the county, respect the robes first, the person second. Family may overlook this, but outsiders will not,” Qin Zhiyan explained.
“Everything is for your future,” he added, gently clarifying to Du Heng.
Du Heng followed him, pausing briefly. Indeed, they were going to meet someone important. He knew Qin Zhiyan was taking precautions for his sake. Having already passed the children’s examination, he could normally proceed straight into the county school. Was there another path he hadn’t yet considered?
He knew little about the intricate circles of the county, unlike Qin Zhiyan, and so could only cooperate. Still, he smiled and said, “Thank you, Uncle, for your guidance and consideration. Surely, today’s arrangements are discreet—no one else will easily learn the details?”
Hearing Du Heng’s easy tone, Qin Zhiyan realized he was unoffended. “Foolish boy, first cross the threshold before letting others know your true abilities. If you show your real self at the first encounter, all efforts—good or bad—are wasted.”
“Yes, nephew-in-law, I understand,” Du Heng replied.
Soon, Qin Zhiyan led Du Heng into Qin Zhi Feng’s room. Just then, Zhi Feng, already dressed as his father instructed, glanced at Du Heng, expressionless, and went straight to the wardrobe to find suitable clothing.
“Your father just had two new outfits made for you, right? The brocade ones? Perfect for today’s weather,” Zhi Feng said.
He had intended to find something plain for Du Heng, not the brocade, not out of thrift, but because the outfit had been sewn by his father. With his father’s word given, Zhi Feng dared not argue. He took out the clothing and handed it to Du Heng: “You’re slightly bigger than me, but this outfit was made a bit loose last year. It should fit you well.”
Du Heng felt slightly embarrassed at the show of favor, but it was Qin Zhiyan’s intention. He accepted politely: “Thank you.”
Zhi Feng bore a strong resemblance to a young Qin Zhiyan. Though not as striking as Du Heng, he was still handsome. He spoke little, giving a slightly solemn impression, a demeanor shaped by his youth.
As a child, he had been lively, but a strict and partial grandfather always compared him unfavorably to his cousins. Even when he excelled, the grandfather belittled him. The same treatment had been extended to his father. Over time, his spirit grew subdued. When elders criticized him, he remained silent.
He sat quietly, waiting with his father for Du Heng.
“Find a proper hairpin for Du Heng,” Qin Zhiyan instructed.
He didn’t wish to over-decorate Du Heng with jewelry or flashy ornaments—that would be too ostentatious—but brocade robes paired with a plain sash looked too plain.
Following orders, Zhi Feng found a white jade hairpin. As soon as it was ready, Du Heng had changed into the new clothing. Both men in the room paused, taken aback.
As the saying goes, “Clothes make the man.” In brocade, Du Heng immediately looked tall, upright, and outstanding. Even a wealthy young gentleman of status would not be questioned.
Qin Zhiyan recalled checking Du Heng’s household registration—he indeed came from a well-to-do merchant family. His background was solid.
Smiling, Qin Zhiyan handed him the hairpin: “Fits perfectly.”
Du Heng thanked him and secured the pin in his hair. The three of them then exited through the main gate and boarded a carriage.
The carriage was slightly cramped, but not overly so. This was Du Heng’s first time riding one, and it was far more comfortable than an ox cart. It also conveyed status and traveled faster.
They were headed to the Prefectural Tutor’s residence, a minor official in the county. Though an eighth-rank official, far from high, his household was already markedly superior to Qin Zhiyan’s, who was employed by the county office but held no official rank.
No wonder Qin Zhiyan was cautious today.
The Prefectural Tutor oversaw cultural education in the county. Naturally, the county school fell under his jurisdiction. Before, when the chief academic officer (Xuezheng) hadn’t been assigned to the county, the tutor reported to the county magistrate. Now, with the officer transferred in, the tutor primarily assisted him.
Du Heng guessed Qin Zhiyan was using today’s banquet as an opportunity for introductions—to let him meet influential people, smooth his path into the county school, and facilitate future matters.
Soon, they arrived. As Du Heng dismounted, he saw several carriages already outside, indicating many guests had arrived.
Approaching the residence, Qin Zhiyan said, “Today is the Prefectural Tutor’s birthday. Many guests will be present—speak with caution.”
Du Heng and Zhi Feng responded in unison.
The doorman ushered them in. Du Heng noticed Qin family servants presenting gifts and exchanged brief courtesies. The three entered the residence.
Though only an eighth-rank official, the tutor’s residence was considerably larger than Qin Zhiyan’s home, likely a two-courtyard house.
Inside, lively conversations could be heard. Guests were steadily arriving. People greeted Qin Zhiyan, and he responded politely. He heard several titles for officials—dianshi, zhang dian, etc.—and noticed at least three different surnames among the dianshi alone.
Although Du Heng didn’t know the exact duties of these officials, he knew that having passed the children’s examination meant they were all working in the county office.
It was said that commoners recognized only two officials as truly “great”: one was the emperor, and the other the county magistrate. Everyone knew the emperor was supreme, but the common people had little chance to meet the numerous officials in the imperial court. In reality, the only official they could truly encounter in their daily lives was the magistrate, which is why he was often called the “Fair Old Lord” by the populace.
County seats varied in size. Luoxia County was middling, but its office wasn’t run by the magistrate alone. There were numerous minor officials and clerks, a small but complete bureaucracy. Du Heng realized that today’s banquet had thrust him into the county’s circle of notable figures.
“Master Xiang is here today as well—it’s been some time since we last saw you,” someone greeted, and the title “Master” immediately pulled Du Heng’s attention back. Beside him, Qin Zhi Feng respectfully echoed the greeting after his father’s introduction: “Master Xiang.”
“The Prefectural Tutor’s invitation is difficult to refuse, so I’ve come,” came the polite reply.
Qin Zhiyan was extremely courteous, quickly adding, “Du Heng, quickly pay your respects to Master Xiang. He is the erudite elder of Bai Rong Academy.”
Du Heng felt the elderly man looked familiar, as if he had seen him somewhere before. But he didn’t dwell on that, instead bowing respectfully.
The old scholar cast a quick glance at Du Heng, his expression barely changing, and hurriedly said, “Secretary Qin, please proceed. I’ll go on ahead.”
“Please, Master Xiang,” Qin Zhiyan replied, still smiling.
Watching the stern-faced scholar leave, Du Heng furrowed his brow. “Did I show any disrespect?”
Qin Zhi Feng, who seldom spoke, murmured, “Master Xiang is the most knowledgeable teacher in our academy, but he has a rather peculiar temper. He is extremely strict with students and treats everyone equally, regardless of their background. Even a young master from a noble household would be reprimanded before others for ignorance.”
Although he spoke critically, a look of admiration crossed Zhi Feng’s face. He regretted not having the chance to study under Master Xiang himself.
Du Heng, watching the old scholar’s retreating figure, suddenly remembered—this must be the same teacher who had given him a lesson in literature when he lingered outside Bai Rong Academy looking for books. During this year’s children’s examination, Du Heng had even answered two or three questions from the notes he remembered from Master Xiang’s lessons. Respect welled up in his heart, though he still felt the teacher’s brief displeasure might have been directed at him.
Qin Zhiyan sighed slightly. “Master Xiang rarely attends banquets. Meeting him today is a stroke of luck. Pity I haven’t yet introduced you as this year’s top scorer in the children’s examination.”
Du Heng understood—someone with such deep knowledge valued talent. If Master Xiang knew he was the top scorer, he might think more highly of him, remember his face, and provide opportunities for guidance and mentorship.
“No matter, let’s go,” Du Heng replied.
Qin Zhiyan led him further into the reception hall, which was larger than their home. The hall was bustling with activity.
Seeing them enter, the man at the main seat laughed: “Zhiyan, you’ve finally arrived. We were just talking about you.”
“The Prefectural Tutor’s birthday is not something to be late for. I ought to apologize,” Qin Zhiyan said.
“Not late at all. The timing is perfect,” the man replied, smiling, then looked toward Qin Zhi Feng. “And Zhi Feng has come as well?”
Zhi Feng immediately bowed. “Your servant greets the Prefectural Tutor. On this day of your birthday, I wish you longevity and great happiness.”
“Family gathering—why so formal?” the tutor joked, then turned to Du Heng.
Three of them entered together. Any new face would naturally be noticed, and Du Heng was particularly conspicuous. Yet the man at the main seat said nothing, and others didn’t speak either.
“And this young man?” someone asked.
Qin Zhiyan feigned forgetting to introduce him. “Ah, I nearly forgot. This is my nephew-in-law, Du Heng. Go ahead and pay your respects to the Prefectural Tutor.”
Du Heng, already aware of the subtle gazes from everyone in the room, now felt all eyes naturally fall on him. Calmly, he bowed: “Your servant Du Heng pays respects to the Prefectural Tutor. I wish you health and happiness, and may Heaven grant you long years.”
The tutor smiled, evidently pleased by the words. “I’ve long heard Zhiyan’s nephew-in-law is an impressive young man. Seeing you today, you are truly dignified. Come, sit and enjoy some tea.”
“Thank you for your praise,” Du Heng said.
Having made a good impression, Qin Zhiyan noted that Du Heng wasn’t timid and spoke confidently yet respectfully. Those present visibly brightened, smiling as he was led to sit.
“Du Heng—are you indeed the top scorer of this year’s children’s examination?” asked a man seated near the tutor.
“You have a good memory, Director Ming. Indeed, he is Zhiyan’s fine nephew-in-law,” Qin Zhiyan replied.
Director Ming stroked his beard, then examined Du Heng carefully. “I heard at a banquet with the Academic Officer that he achieved first place in all five examinations this year. I’ve long wondered when I might meet him. Busy as I was, I never had the chance. Today, thanks to the Prefectural Tutor, I finally do.”
The tutor chuckled: “Both Director Ming and the Academic Officer value talent. If they see this young man as promising, why not invite him to Bai Rong Academy?”
Director Ming smiled. “Would the Prefectural Tutor really allow this young man into the academy without attending the county school first?”
“How could the county school compare to Bai Rong Academy? If he excels, he will eventually serve the court. Even as a minor official, serving the court is serving the court,” Qin Zhiyan replied.
Director Ming, hearing this, looked at Du Heng with keen eyes, appraising him from head to toe, his gaze lingering perhaps because attractive young men lifted his mood. Slowly, he asked, “Would you be willing to study at Bai Rong Academy?”
Du Heng was startled. One was the head of the county school, another the academy director. Both in the same room, asking which path he would choose—how could this not be overwhelming?
Although the Prefectural Tutor’s words had seemed to invite him to Bai Rong Academy, who could be certain it wasn’t merely courtesy—perhaps they simply wanted to see how he would respond and what he truly thought. A misstep in his answer might offend them, and even implicate Qin Zhiyan.
As he hesitated, Qin Zhiyan glanced at him. Du Heng immediately understood and felt reassured. He rose and replied respectfully: “I have long admired Bai Rong Academy. Seeing my cousin study there has always filled me with envy. Alas, my own talent is modest, and I dared not imagine entering such a prestigious academy. If I am granted this opportunity, I would be immensely grateful.”
Director Ming stroked his beard. “It is rare to see such sincere eagerness to study. Come to the academy early. Next year’s annual examinations are near, and it would do well to get a head start on practice.”
Du Heng, hearing this, realized the matter was settled. Suppressing his excitement, he replied with composure: “Thank you, Director.”
To the other guests, Du Heng’s admission of joining the academy would have seemed merely a casual decision made by a few notable people, a small episode hardly worth attention. Those busy ingratiating themselves would continue to do so; newcomers like Du Heng and Qin Zhi Feng would quickly be forgotten.
Yet his own joy lingered. He had assumed today’s visit was merely to meet the Prefectural Tutor and, naturally, to proceed to the county school. He had never expected that, through careful maneuvering, he would gain entrance to the venerable Bai Rong Academy.
He knew this was no accident. The Prefectural Tutor’s recommendation must have been orchestrated by Qin Zhiyan.
Bai Rong Academy, established a hundred years ago, was the reason Luoxia County was known across the land. Over the century, countless officials and scholars had graduated from there, and many young scions of elite families traveled great distances to study, only to be turned away. Today, he had indeed gained an extraordinary advantage.
Although Du Heng didn’t know the exact standing of the academy’s director, anyone able to hold such a position could not be ordinary. His familiarity with the Academic Officer spoke volumes about his influence. Perhaps Qin Zhiyan, lacking the clout to invite the director directly, had used the Prefectural Tutor’s birthday banquet as a pretext to introduce him.
Du Heng felt deep gratitude for Qin Zhiyan’s thoughtfulness. He had not expected such a chance to enter a century-old, prestigious academy.
After the banquet, on the way home, Du Heng bowed respectfully to Qin Zhiyan: “Thank you, uncle, for today’s arrangements.”
Qin Zhiyan waved with a smile, his own joy visible. “I merely guided you along the path. The outcome depends on you. Had you not achieved such results in the children’s examination, all my efforts would have been in vain. Today, you conducted yourself with composure and grace, earning the favor of the Prefectural Tutor and Director Ming.”
He added, smiling: “Do not be deceived by Director Ming’s amiable demeanor. If a student fails to impress him, he will turn them away, regardless of family or rank. A few years ago, the son of the Yongzhou Prefect came to study. The child had bought his position as a child scholar. Director Ming personally tested him, found his writings incoherent, and sent him away.”
Quiet Qin Zhi Feng nodded: “The academy’s teachers and directors are strong-willed. If you are diligent and earnest in your studies, they will treat you well.”
“Thank you for your guidance, cousin,” Du Heng replied.
By the time he returned to the Qin residence, it was already late. Knowing that Qin Xiao Man was far along in her pregnancy, Qin Zhiyan did not insist that he stay for dinner, only instructing Du Heng to begin the enrollment process at the academy promptly. Once there, a tutor would be assigned to him.
Du Heng responded: “I will change out of these clothes. Thank you again for the outfit today, cousin.”
“You look fine in them, so keep them,” Qin Zhiyan said.
Du Heng had intended to decline, but with Qin Zhiyan insisting he take them, he accepted. Still, before leaving, he changed out of the outfit. Riding back in such attire atop the ox cart naturally drew some attention.
When Du Heng arrived home, dusk was settling in. Tiger, sharp-eared as ever, leapt up in excitement at the sound of the cart, running out to greet him.
Smoke rose from the kitchen roof; Xiao Man must have already started preparing dinner.
“I’m back,” Du Heng called.
After a while, someone helped themselves out of the house, seeing Du Heng unloading the cart, their face lighting up. “I thought uncle had kept you for dinner and that you wouldn’t return tonight.”
“That wouldn’t do,” Du Heng replied.
He unloaded a few handfuls of fodder for the ox, picked up his bundle, and helped Qin Xiao Man into the house.
“What is this you bought?” she asked.
Du Heng replied, “Not bought. Uncle took me out today to visit, and this is the outfit your cousin made for me.”
Qin Xiao Man’s brows twitched. “A banquet and you changed clothes for it? Let me see.”
Du Heng opened his bundle and shook out the outfit for her to examine.
“This fine brocade! Cousin is far too generous!” Qin Xiao Man ran his hands over the smooth, glossy fabric. It was far superior to the rough material they usually wore. “Was this for seeing the County Magistrate? Dressing this well?”
Du Heng recounted the events of the day and poured himself a cup of water. “In a couple of days, I’ll prepare to enroll at the academy.”
Qin Xiao Man’s eyes widened. “Bai Rong Academy is far better than the county school! I’ve heard that even the least accomplished tutors there are at the level of provincial graduates. Once you enter, you’ll easily have excellent teachers.”
Du Heng nodded. “Uncle truly went to great lengths for me.”
Qin Xiao Man’s heart seemed to burst with fireworks as she patted her belly. “Child, your father is now a student of Bai Rong Academy! Cousin will rely on you to keep him here. If he ran off, the two of us would be left to eat the northwest wind.”
Du Heng reached out and pulled Qin Xiao Man close. “Don’t teach the child nonsense.”
He lifted her into his arms, pressing his forehead against hers. “I intend to enjoy my life of leisure to the fullest.”