The Company

Chapter 40: Jade Weng Zhong

Kaifeng Prefecture Imperial Academy, 1057 AD

The northeastern corner near Zhuque Gate in Kaifeng Prefecture's inner city was the most bustling area of Dongjing. With the Cai River flowing through, it formed an elegant river bend.

The Cai River Bend was extremely prosperous, with all kinds of shops and buildings visible everywhere. What made it even more unique was that it simultaneously housed the Examination Hall, Imperial Academy, Directorate of Education, Music Bureau, hospitals, brothels, and gambling houses—from the highest social classes to the lowest, almost all crowded into this single area. This distinctive landscape made it the most renowned place in Dongjing.

Wang Junmin, who had just reached the capping age of twenty, followed his classmate and close friend Chu Yushi as they slowly emerged from the solemn and imposing academic institutions on the southern bank of the Cai River Bend. Under the moonlight, they gradually melted into the lively crowds of the Cai River Bend.

Wang Junmin had entered the Imperial Academy at seventeen, becoming an Imperial Academy Student at this highest institution of learning. Of course, were it not for Fan Zhongyan's Qingli Reforms twelve years earlier, which established the Imperial Academy at Xiqing Court, he might still be studying diligently somewhere else.

The Imperial Academy had Dormitory Studies where students could live and eat as long as they paid the full tuition. After three years of rigorous study at the Imperial Academy, this was the first time Wang Junmin had been dragged out to properly tour the famous Cai River Bend. He was immediately captivated by the bustling, shoulder-to-shoulder scene before him. In the crowd, he could see many people wearing the same round-collared, wide-sleeved White Ramie Robes—the Imperial Academy Uniform worn by Imperial Academy Students. Wang Junmin keenly spotted several scholars boldly walking toward brothels while still wearing their Imperial Academy Uniforms, making him feel embarrassed for them. He wished he could change out of his identical White Ramie Robe.

But he also knew this was the way of the world. Among the common folk, there were often tales of tender and sentimental scholar-beauty romances. Most of those anonymous authors were his own classmates.

"Kanghou, what are you thinking about?" Chu Yushi had already walked several steps ahead when he noticed his companion hadn't followed. He turned back to call out.

"Oh, Hefu, I was just thinking that tomorrow is the Upper Dormitory exam. Isn't it inappropriate for us to be out wandering like this?"

Wang Junmin and Chu Yushi were closest friends—not only were they from the same hometown, but they were also roommates.

"You've been studying so hard you've become foolish! Getting some fresh air will help your performance tomorrow!" Chu Yushi tapped his shoulder with a folding fan, appearing completely unconcerned.

Wang Junmin hesitated for a moment, but ultimately couldn't bear to spoil his friend's mood and stepped forward to follow.

The Imperial Academy was divided into three dormitories: Outer Dormitory, Inner Dormitory, and Upper Dormitory. New students entered the Outer Dormitory for studies. After passing monthly private exams and annual public exams, and with officials evaluating their daily conduct, those who qualified could advance to the Inner Dormitory as Inner Dormitory Students. Inner Dormitory Students took exams every two years, with the outstanding ones entering the Upper Dormitory. Upper Dormitory Students could participate in official selection exams every two years. If all evaluations achieved superior ratings, they could become Upper Class Upper Dormitory Students and receive official appointments. If one subject received an average rating, they became Middle Class Upper Dormitory Students, exempt from the Ministry of Rites examination. Those with lower ratings became Lower Class Upper Dormitory Students, exempt from the preliminary examinations.It can be said that within the Imperial Academy, the Outer Dormitory, Inner Dormitory, and Upper Dormitory directly stratified the students into upper, middle, and lower tiers. The Upper Dormitory was not accessible to just anyone—Upper Dormitory Students stood almost at the pinnacle of the Imperial Academy's pyramid. They naturally received guidance from the finest Academic Officials, occupied the best Dormitory Studies and study rooms, and had always carried themselves with an air of superiority within the academy.

The Imperial Academy Uniform, the White Ramie Robe, was a men's long gown with a horizontal panel sewn at the hem of the skirt. Simple in design from head to toe, it appeared no different from the robes worn by ordinary scholars, yet it featured a subtle dark trim on the black robe. Everyone in the Eastern Capital knew that only Imperial Academy Students could wear these trimmed robes, with the barely noticeable colors distinguishing their ranks within the academy.

Wang Junmin looked down at the indigo trim on his hem. He thought to himself that it had once been ultramarine, now it was indigo, and he hoped that soon it would be replaced by the raven black—a seemingly understated color that symbolized the honor of an Upper Dormitory Student.

Lost in his wandering thoughts, Wang Junmin paid no attention to the gazes of passersby. The two of them, with their dignified appearances and upright statures, already stood out, and clad in the Imperial Academy Uniform representing the Inner Dormitory, they were particularly eye-catching. Most Imperial Academy Students were either children of officials or top scholars recommended from various regions. Entering the Inner Dormitory, though not yet the Upper Dormitory, meant they had one foot already through the threshold of the imperial court. As they walked down the street, envious or jealous glances frequently fell upon them.

Wang Junmin followed Chu Yushi through countless alleys and lanes, only realizing how deserted the surroundings had become when he noticed they had arrived at a very secluded alley. Yet they were clearly still near the Cai River Bend, as the noisy clamor of vendors hawking their goods could be distinctly heard not far away.

This alley also housed many shops, most of which sold antiques and calligraphy paintings. Due to the ironclad rule in this trade that "colors cannot be judged under lamplight," these shops closed their doors after nightfall, though they ought to be bustling during the day. But since they were all closed, why come here now?

Just as Wang Junmin was about to ask, he spotted a lantern still lit in front of an antique shop. He barely had time to read the shop's sign, which bore the words "Dumb Shop" in the hazy lantern light, before Chu Yushi pulled him through the shop's entrance.

Before he could clearly make out the interior furnishings, Wang Junmin was greeted by an invigorating fragrance—sweet but not cloying, fresh and elegant, as if cleansing the impurities within his heart and immediately lifting his spirits. This antique shop was truly extravagant; though he didn't know what kind of incense it was, it was certainly not cheap.

Wang Junmin instinctively touched the money pouch at his waist. His father was merely a minor judge in the Kaifeng Prefecture, living on a salary and having to manage various expenses. Sending him to the Imperial Academy was already a stretch, not to mention he had three younger brothers still growing up at home. He needed to be frugal. Firmly resolved not to buy anything, Wang Junmin settled his mind to appreciate the antiques in the shop, marveling at each piece as he looked them over.The shop's interior was elegantly arranged, with various antiques displayed just right, devoid of any mercenary feel of waiting for the highest bidder. Instead, it felt like stepping into the main hall of a wealthy family's residence, where every antique appeared magnificent, precious, and priceless.

Chu Yushi, however, lacked Wang Junmin's leisurely mood. He immediately rushed to the area where scholar's objects were placed and began picking through them. Aside from some jade pendants and fans, Imperial Academy students generally favored these practical items for daily use. Moreover, antique shops often carried scholar's objects supposedly used by renowned scholars—though no one could verify their authenticity. Before exams, buying them as lucky charms to ensure passing every subject seemed far more effective to Chu Yushi than last-minute cramming.

"Boss! Is the cloud-patterned white jade brush washer that Li Bai used, which I saw this afternoon, still available?" Chu Yushi urgently pulled out silver notes from his pocket. "I've brought enough money this time!"

Wang Junmin, standing nearby, didn't know how to react. Although the shop appeared quite reputable—exuding classical charm and selling genuinely aged antiques—the idea of a brush washer used by the legendary poet Li Bai seemed utterly far-fetched. Yet he knew his friend's temperament well; persuading him was futile. Besides, Chu Yushi's family was wealthy and wouldn't mind such extravagance.

Even so, Wang Junmin couldn't muster any goodwill toward the antique shop's boss. When the latter emerged from the inner room, Wang Junmin averted his gaze, ignoring the haggling, and idly scanned the nearby curio shelf.

But his eyes were suddenly captivated by a small jade figure in the corner. Curious, he approached and discovered it was a jade Weng Zhong, no larger than a thumb.

A jade Weng Zhong served as an amulet to ward off evil spirits. The original Weng Zhong, named Ruan Wengzhong, was a herculean warrior during Qin Shi Huang's reign. Legend held that he possessed immense strength and martial prowess. Qin Shi Huang assigned him to guard Lin Tao, where his reputation intimidated the Xiongnu. After Ruan Wengzhong's death, the emperor cast a bronze statue in his likeness and placed it outside the Sima Gate of the Xianyang Palace. When Xiongnu envoys came to pay respects in Xianyang, they mistook the statue for the real Ruan Wengzhong from afar and dared not approach.

Later generations thus cast bronze or carved stone figures of Weng Zhong, erecting them before palaces, temples, and tombs to repel evil. Gradually, people began wearing jade Weng Zhong pendants for protection. During the Han Dynasty, jade Weng Zhong, the South-Pointing Needle Pendant, and the Yang Wood Charm were highly popular, collectively known as the "Three Treasures of Averting Misfortune."Though Wang Junmin typically dismissed supernatural tales, he found this white jade Weng Zhong carved with exceptional classic simplicity." He couldn't resist picking it up for closer inspection.

Crafted in the Han Dynasty style of the "Eight Cuts of Han," the jade Weng Zhong embodied archaic vigor and conciseness. With just a few simple strokes, it depicted the face of a young man, the jade's luster smooth and captivating, exuding a rugged, resolute aura. The pendant featured a herringbone perforation, running from the crown down to the abdomen, then splitting into two paths emerging from both sides of the waist. A red tassel cord followed the same herringbone path from the head to the waist, where it was knotted on both sides, allowing the Weng Zhong to hang upright. This herringbone perforation was a distinctive hallmark of Han Dynasty Weng Zhong pieces.

Wang Junmin caressed it fondly, unable to put it down. Perhaps due to its age, while the tassel cord appeared brand new, the jade Weng Zhong's body bore several cracks and blood-like stains, resembling congealed blood. It evoked an indescribably eerie sensation."Oh my, Kanghou, why are you looking at this?" Chu Yushi had already purchased the brush washer and approached holding a Brocade Box. When he saw the Jade Weng Zhong in Wang Junmin's hands, he exclaimed dramatically.

"What's wrong?" Wang Junmin frowned, his gaze shifting to the Boss who had followed them over. He was astonished by the man's extraordinary demeanor. Dressed in ancient Qin and Han dynasty attire—a fitted Wrapped Robe with wide sleeves, the black straight hem elegantly draping to his feet—the man appeared as refined as jade, like an elegant figure stepping out of an ancient painting. Such scholarly grace surpassed even that of the Grand Academicians at the Imperial Academy, let alone the fact that he wore his hair unbound, indicating he was still in his capping age.

"This Jade Weng Zhong is said to bring misfortune to people!" Chu Yushi declared with exaggerated emphasis. "You know Zhang Shizheng, right? The one who's been competing with you for the Inner Dormitory Instructor position? He bought this Jade Weng Zhong recently despite warnings, and suffered continuous misfortunes—you even ended up taking the Inner Dormitory Instructor position from him. He had no choice but to return it."

The Inner Dormitory Instructor was selected from the most outstanding Inner Dormitory students, acting as an academic guide when instructors were unavailable. Wang Junmin had applied for the role purely for the monthly stipend, never paying attention to who else was competing. He did recall Zhang Shizheng, however, as there were only a handful of exceptional students in the Inner Dormitory, all potential candidates for advanced studies. Even someone as detached as Wang Junmin knew of them.

But that wasn't the point. Ignoring Chu Yushi's warning, Wang Junmin directly addressed the silent Boss: "How much for this Jade Weng Zhong?"

The Boss smiled faintly. "Your friend just said it brings misfortune. Why would you still want to buy it?"

"Does it truly bring misfortune?" Wang Junmin's brow furrowed. He had assumed the Boss—who could hype an ordinary brush washer as once belonging to the Poet Immortal—would be eager to sell the Jade Weng Zhong with fabricated tales of bizarre origins.

Instead of answering directly, the Boss spoke leisurely: "Jade originates as stone, formed by gathering the essence of heaven and earth, then meticulously carved by artisans into ornaments. Jade that has shielded its owner from calamity often develops cracks or even shatters when its spiritual energy depletes. Jade possesses spirituality, but conversely, it can also harbor malignity. Broken jade easily attracts undesirable forces."

Though he never explicitly stated the Jade Weng Zhong brought misfortune, every word implied it.

Wang Junmin looked down at the Jade Weng Zhong in his hand. He recognized that the cracks weren't natural veining but actual fissures, with staining penetrating deeply into the fractures.

Yet he couldn't help his fondness for it. The bond between jade and people depends on fate. Among all the precious antiques in the shop, his eyes had instantly been drawn to this piece alone. He felt compelled to possess it, as if it were inherently meant to be his.

"How much for this Jade Weng Zhong?" Wang Junmin began calculating his available funds. Since becoming the Inner Dormitory Instructor, he did have some extra income.

The Boss smiled lightly and said casually, "Since you desire it, take it. Treat it well. If you ever grow tired of it, do not discard it carelessly."Wang Junmin joyfully expressed his gratitude and immediately hung the Jade Weng Zhong at his waist, feeling that tonight's outing had truly been worthwhile.

After leaving the Dumb Shop, Chu Yushi couldn't help but voice a few complaints, insisting that the Jade Weng Zhong was quite ominous and urging him to be cautious.

But Wang Junmin paid no heed, believing that if one liked something, they should embrace all aspects of it—both its strengths and its flaws.

The next day, during the Upper Dormitory exam, Wang Junmin felt confident. After submitting his paper, he knew he would surely be admitted to the Upper Dormitory. Meanwhile, Chu Yushi slumped over his desk with sighs of despair, clearly lacking confidence.

Wang Junmin contemplated his life plans. Having entered the Imperial Academy's Upper Dormitory this year, he knew he couldn't graduate within one year and would miss the current imperial examination. Fortunately, the exams were held biennially, so he could wait for the next one in two years.

As he pondered this and tidied the writing materials on his desk, Wang Junmin noticed someone stopping in front of him. Looking up, he saw it was Zhang Shizheng, who was staring with a conflicted expression at the Jade Weng Zhong hanging from his waist, clearly recognizing it.

Although the two were rivals, they had never spoken before. Wang Junmin didn't know how to greet him, and Zhang Shizheng didn't linger either. After giving him a deep look, he turned and left.

"Kanghou, are you alright? Did you perform poorly in today's exam?" Chu Yushi approached with concern. Only after seeing his friend's calm expression did he relax and say, "It's good nothing went wrong. Ah, why are you so fixated on this Jade Weng Zhong?"

"How did you do?" Wang Junmin knew his friend loved to ramble and that if he didn't change the subject, he might go on for a quarter of an hour without stopping.

"Hard to say," Chu Yushi sighed, tapping his palm with a folding fan and hanging his head dejectedly. "Forget it. If I don't make it into the Upper Dormitory, I'll go home and study medicine. You know how much I love reading medical books..."

Wang Junmin patted his shoulder, feeling somewhat helpless. Truly, everyone has their own fate.

Not long after, the list of students promoted from the Inner Dormitory to the Upper Dormitory was posted. As expected, Wang Junmin was admitted as an Upper Dormitory Student, but Chu Yushi's name was absent from the list. Wang Junmin also noted that Zhang Shizheng's name was right next to his, indicating that the academic officials held them in similar regard.

Being able to move into the Upper Dormitory and advancing his plans brought Wang Junmin great joy, though this happiness was tempered by parting from his friend Chu Yushi. Chu Yushi, however, seemed unbothered, mentioning that his family had insisted he continue his studies at the Imperial Academy, further postponing his dream of studying medicine.

Upper Dormitory Students each had their own private Dormitory Study. After changing into his Crow-Green Trimmed Robe and freed from distractions, Wang Junmin immersed himself even more diligently in his studies, gradually emerging as the top student in his Upper Dormitory cohort. However, he rarely socialized with others in the dormitory, so his reputation didn't quite match Zhang Shizheng's.

Wang Junmin didn't mind. In his spare time, he would occasionally go out for tea with Chu Yushi or visit his parents and younger brothers at home. He didn't even compete with Zhang Shizheng for the position of Upper Dormitory Academic Prefect, instead devoting himself entirely to the classics and historical texts, almost to the point of self-forgetfulness. Before he knew it, over a year had passed, and the biennial Upper Dormitory evaluation exam was fast approaching.It is well known that the examiners for the Upper Dormitory evaluations are all high-ranking court officials. If one performs exceptionally well on the evaluation papers and leaves a favorable impression, it will be of immense help when they take the upcoming imperial examinations. There is an unspoken understanding among those at the Imperial Academy: in fact, the Upper Dormitory evaluations held just before the imperial exams are akin to a preliminary round. Those who achieve a ranking are almost certain to pass the imperial exams, barring any major mishaps.

Wang Junmin redoubled his efforts, studying late into the night in the academy study hall every evening.

One night, after finishing an essay, he rubbed his dry, tired eyes and habitually massaged the Jade Weng Zhong at his waist with his sore right hand.

This had become an unconscious habit. Since the day he bought the Jade Weng Zhong, it had never left his side. Whenever his fingers touched its smooth, polished surface, his restless and weary mind would instantly calm and settle. It felt as though no matter how late he studied, there was always someone keeping him company.

Wang Junmin closed his eyes and traced the carvings on the Jade Weng Zhong with his fingertips. How could such a fine piece of jade be accused of bringing misfortune to its owner? In truth, since he started wearing it, he had successfully entered the Upper Dormitory, and while his father’s official position hadn’t risen significantly, it was enough to support the family comfortably. By all accounts, his life had been smooth sailing.

Lost in thought, Wang Junmin, who hadn’t rested properly for days, drifted off to sleep. He was jolted awake by a searing pain in his right arm.

"Ah! Cough, cough!" Wang Junmin woke from his dream, only to be horrified to find himself surrounded by flames. The pain that had roused him was caused by fire licking at the sleeve of his right arm. He frantically patted at the flames and rolled on the ground to extinguish them. The agony in his right arm and the hellish, molten heat made him acutely aware that this was no dream. He tried to cry out for help, but the moment he opened his mouth, thick smoke choked him, sending him into a coughing fit. Soon, he felt as though he were suffocating.

How could this be? He had only dozed off for a moment—how had he woken up to find himself being burned alive?

Could this still be a dream?

As his consciousness faded, Wang Junmin vaguely sensed someone desperately tugging at him, trying to drag him out of the room. But the person’s strength was too feeble, and their progress was as slow as a snail’s.

Who could it be? A fellow student from the study hall? But he remembered being the only one studying late that night.

Wang Junmin’s limbs felt weak and limp, devoid of any strength. He felt like a burden. He opened his mouth to tell the person to leave him behind and save themselves, but before he could utter a word, darkness swallowed him.

"Oh, Kanghou, you must look on the bright side. The Imperial Academy’s registrar isn’t holding you responsible. Just focus on recovering." Chu Yushi watched his bedridden friend with lingering fear. Given the scale of the fire, it was nothing short of a miracle that Wang Junmin had escaped with only a burned right arm.

Seeing his friend’s despondent expression, Chu Yushi sighed and comforted him, "Your right arm is burned. Although the bones and tendons are unharmed, you won’t be able to participate in the Upper Dormitory evaluations or next month’s imperial exams. Don’t dwell on it—you’re still young. There will be another opportunity in two years!""It was all my fault." Wang Junmin closed his eyes, his voice hoarse from inhaling thick smoke. He didn't particularly mind missing the examination—when one has struggled back from the brink of death, other matters naturally seem less significant. Although the magistrate who had just visited him had humorously remarked that this finally gave them an opportunity to rebuild the Dormitory Study, Wang Junmin, who had nearly caused a catastrophe, remained deeply remorseful. Subconsciously, he gripped the Jade Weng Zhong placed beside his pillow.

Noticing his state, Chu Yushi's eyes shifted thoughtfully before he spoke in a solemn, deep voice: "Actually, Kanghou, I've always felt there was something strange about this incident." You were alone in the study at that time. If the fire was caused by the oil lamp on your desk, how could you have only injured your right arm? You should have been reduced to charcoal long ago."

"Alone?" Wang Junmin was startled and urgently pressed: "I remember someone rescued me. What happened to that person?"

"Ah? You mean Zhang Shizheng? He's fine. They say he found you at the study entrance when he rushed in—just some singed hair tips and robe corners." Chu Yushi's tone was full of suspicion. "Kanghou, don't blame me for overthinking, but there's only one top Upper Dormitory Student position, and you're the only one talented enough to compete with Zhang Shizheng. Could he have secretly harmed you? Even if the injury didn't prevent you from the evaluation, at least it could frighten and distract you. Then when he saw the fire worsening, he rushed in to save you? Otherwise, why would he coincidentally be around so late at night?"

At the entrance? Not by the desk? Wang Junmin was momentarily stunned before belatedly realizing his friend was enthusiastically spinning conspiracy theories. He lightly chided, "Hefu, don't talk nonsense. I owe Brother Zhang greatly this time. After I recover, I must visit to thank him properly."

Chu Yushi gave an embarrassed laugh, then his gaze fell on Wang Junmin's left hand. "I've got it! It must be this Jade Weng Zhong making you so unlucky! Quick, throw it away!"

Wang Junmin's left hand twitched, then he forced an unnatural smile. "What nonsense are you spouting? I'm tired. You should go review your texts—the Inner Dormitory exams are in a few days."

After sending Chu Yushi away, Wang Junmin didn't rest. Instead, he lowered his head to examine the Jade Weng Zhong in his hand.

Perhaps from rolling on the ground in the fire, or maybe from being too close to the flames and unable to withstand the heat, the Jade Weng Zhong had developed more cracks. The blood-like seepage stains made it appear particularly wretched.

He truly loved this Jade Weng Zhong—he could even remember with closed eyes how many original cracks it had and where they were. Running his fingertips over the scarred jade, Wang Junmin still retied it to his belt.

That year's Upper Dormitory evaluation awarded Zhang Shizheng the top ranking.

Wang Junmin had wanted to personally thank Zhang Shizheng for saving his life, but feared disturbing his studies. Thus, he waited until after the imperial examinations concluded before bringing gifts to visit his Dormitory Study.

Actually, Zhang Shizheng's study was diagonally across from his, but this was Wang Junmin's first time knocking on the door.

When Zhang Shizheng opened the door, Wang Junmin saw him packing—not just for a temporary home visit, but systematically placing stacks of books from shelves into chests.

"Are you... moving out?" Wang Junmin asked instinctively, then recalling Zhang Shizheng's courtesy name, smiled brightly. "Congratulations, Brother Buyi! You must have excelled in the examinations!" Such thorough packing meant either he'd failed and was leaving the Imperial Academy for good, or done so well he wouldn't need to return. Though not eloquent, Wang Junmin naturally didn't believe Zhang Shizheng had performed poorly.

The thought that he himself couldn't even take the exams made Wang Junmin's expression darken momentarily, but he rallied himself to express sincere gratitude: "I owe you my life from that day. I feared disturbing you earlier, hence coming today to thank you properly." He then presented the gifts.

Zhang Shizheng naturally declined courteously: "Saving others is one's duty—I'd have done the same for anyone inside. Kanghou, there's no need for this. Besides, when I found you, you were already at the entrance. It was merely a small effort on my part.""At the door?" Wang Junmin was stunned. Chu Yushi had mentioned this to him before, and he had thought his friend misremembered, not paying it much mind. But now hearing it again from the person involved made Wang Junmin unable to dismiss it.

Could it be that he himself had hallucinated in the sea of fire? The magistrate hadn't mentioned any other injured people either. In such a fierce blaze, if someone else had rescued him, they would surely have suffered burns as well.

Suppressing his doubts, Wang Junmin insisted that Zhang Shizheng accept his gift of thanks. As scholars, what he offered wasn't gold or silver, but several rare books Wang Junmin had specifically sought out. While not particularly valuable in monetary terms, they were treasures money couldn't easily buy.

Unable to refuse, Zhang Shizheng reluctantly accepted. His peripheral glance caught the Jade Weng Zhong hanging from Wang Junmin's waist, and he remarked casually with a sigh: "Kanghou, don't mind my frankness, but I once wore this Jade Weng Zhong myself despite the superstitions, and truly encountered nothing but misfortune. Once on the street, I was nearly run over by a panicked horse carriage. Had it not tripped on a stone and fallen first, that mad horse might have trampled my neck."

Zhang Shizheng spoke while still visibly shaken, clearly haunted by the close call: "Though you've narrowly escaped death now, you've ultimately missed this imperial examination. Back in Emperor Taizu's reign, exams were held yearly, then biannually under Emperor Zhenzong. In the future, they might become triennial or even less frequent."

Wang Junmin pressed his lips tight, unsure how to respond. Just then, other classmates arrived to visit. Since Zhang Shizheng was the most popular student in the Imperial Academy, Wang Junmin felt he couldn't blend into their circle and took his leave.

After seeing Chu Yushi off, Wang Junmin didn't rest but instead looked down at the Jade Weng Zhong in his hand.

Perhaps from rolling on the ground in the fire, or from exposure to unbearable heat near the flames, the jade amulet had developed more cracks. The blood-like stains made it appear even more battered.

He truly cherished this Jade Weng Zhong - he could even recall with closed eyes the exact number and locations of its original cracks. Running his fingers over the scarred surface, Wang Junmin eventually retied it to his waistband.

That year's Upper Dormitory evaluation awarded Zhang Shizheng the highest rank.

Wang Junmin had wanted to personally thank Zhang Shizheng for saving his life, but fearing to disturb his studies, waited until after the imperial exams before bringing gifts to his Dormitory Study.

Actually, Zhang Shizheng's study was just diagonally opposite his own, yet this was Wang Junmin's first time knocking on its door.

When Zhang Shizheng opened the door, Wang Junmin saw him packing - not just for a temporary home visit, but systematically placing books from shelves into boxes.

"Are you... moving out?" Wang Junmin asked instinctively, then recalling Zhang Shizheng's courtesy name, smiled and congratulated: "Congratulations, Brother Buyi! You must have excelled in the exams!" Such thorough packing meant either disastrous results or no further need for Imperial Academy studies - and though not eloquent, Wang Junmin certainly didn't believe Zhang Shizheng had performed poorly.Just kidding, how could a top Upper Dormitory Student perform poorly in exams? At the thought of being unable to even take the exam, Wang Junmin's expression darkened, but he forced himself to cheer up and sincerely expressed his gratitude: "I owe my life to your rescue that day. I feared disturbing you too much earlier, so I've come today to thank you properly." With that, he presented his gift of appreciation.

Zhang Shizheng naturally declined, politely refusing: "Saving someone is a duty I cannot shirk. Had it been anyone else in that situation, I would have done the same. Kanghou, there's no need for this. Besides, when I found you, you were already at the doorway—it was merely a small effort on my part."

"Doorway?" Wang Junmin was stunned. Chu Yushi had mentioned this to him before, but he thought his friend must have misremembered and didn't pay it much mind. However, hearing it now from the person involved made Wang Junmin believe it.

Could it be that he himself had hallucinated in the fire? The magistrate hadn't mentioned any other injured persons. In such a fierce blaze, if someone else had rescued him, they would surely have suffered burns as well.

Suppressing his doubts, Wang Junmin insisted that Zhang Shizheng accept the gift. As fellow scholars, what he offered weren't gold or silver items, but several rare books he had specifically sought out—not particularly valuable in monetary terms, yet priceless in their uniqueness.

Unable to refuse further, Zhang Shizheng reluctantly accepted. His gaze incidentally fell upon the Jade Weng Zhong hanging at Wang Junmin's waist, and he remarked casually: "Kanghou, don't mind my frankness, but I once wore a Jade Weng Zhong myself in disbelief of the superstitions. Truly, nothing went right during that time. Once on the street, I was nearly run over by a panicked horse—if it hadn't tripped on a stone and fallen first, that mad steed might have crushed my neck."

Zhang Shizheng spoke with lingering fear, clearly still shaken by the memory: "Though you've fortunately survived this ordeal, you've ultimately missed the imperial examination. In Emperor Taizu's reign, exams were held annually; by Emperor Zhenzong's time, it became biennial. In the future, it might extend to triennial or even longer intervals."

Wang Junmin pressed his lips tightly, unsure how to respond. Just then, other classmates arrived to visit. Zhang Shizheng was the most popular student in the Imperial Academy, while Wang Junmin felt he couldn't integrate into their circle, so he took his leave.

Returning to his Dormitory Study, Wang Junmin touched the Jade Weng Zhong at his waist. When his fingers brushed against its scars, Zhang Shizheng's words flashed through his mind, leaving him unsettled.

With the Jade Weng Zhong damaged like this, perhaps it wasn't suitable to wear daily anymore.

Finally caressing the pendant with regret, Wang Junmin placed it in a lacquer box nearby, completely unaware that the originally lustrous jade had suddenly turned dull...

When the palace examination results were later announced, Zhang Shizheng was ranked in the first class and granted the Jinshi degree, but didn't achieve the top rank as Zhuangyuan. Their senior Liu Hui took the highest honor instead.This twenty-seven-year-old senior was already a legend within the Imperial Academy. His writings were adorned with extravagant rhetoric and piled high with allusions, earning him public admiration and establishing him as a renowned scholar in the capital years ago. However, Ouyang Xiu, the chief examiner of the previous imperial examinations, detested such ornate writing styles and advocated for plain and unadorned prose. It was said that during that year’s exams, although the candidates’ papers were anonymized, Ouyang Xiu immediately recognized Liu Hui’s writing style and criticized it from start to finish with his red brush. After failing the exams, Liu Hui resolutely left the Imperial Academy, returned to his hometown to study diligently, and immersed himself in the hardships of common life. His writing gradually became sincere and unpretentious, eventually earning high praise from Ouyang Xiu, the chief examiner of the palace exams this year, and securing the top position.

Wang Junmin obtained a transcribed copy of the top candidate’s essay and, after studying it repeatedly, felt inferior in comparison.

Chu Yushi’s ranking in the imperial examinations was also less than ideal, so he withdrew from the Imperial Academy and returned home to study medical texts. Others thought him foolish, but Wang Junmin secretly envied him in a subtle way.

To find something one is passionate about and pursue it steadfastly is, in a sense, truly remarkable.

Wang Junmin focused wholeheartedly on his studies, immersing himself even more deeply in his books. This time, however, he did not merely study blindly. In addition to reviewing texts, he made an effort to visit as many places as possible. As stated in Xunzi: The Teachings of the Ru: "To hear without seeing, though broad, is bound to be mistaken; to see without understanding, though familiar, is bound to be delusional; to understand without practicing, though diligent, is bound to be constrained." Gradually, he began to embody the teachings in the texts, understanding them not merely on a superficial level.

Two years passed in the blink of an eye. As expected, Wang Junmin was the only Upper Dormitory Student to achieve the highest grade in the Upper Dormitory evaluation. Subsequently, the Xinchou Imperial Examinations of the sixth year of the Jiayou era arrived amid great anticipation.

At twenty-five, Wang Junmin was already considered quite old within the Imperial Academy. If he failed to pass the exams this year, he would have to withdraw from the academy and become an insignificant assistant to an official or remain as an ordinary instructor or registrar in the Imperial Academy, receiving a meager salary. His younger brothers had grown up, and household expenses were increasing. He could no longer burden his family. Moreover, he had used studying as an excuse to avoid marriage, partly because his family likely could not afford the betrothal gifts.

While packing his examination supplies, Wang Junmin opened a lacquered box and found the Jade Weng Zhong he had long forgotten. After holding it in his hand for a moment, he finally took it out and placed it in his stationery box.

The metropolitan examination went as smoothly as Wang Junmin had anticipated. By the time he finished his papers, he knew he would likely be on the list of successful candidates. As for his exact ranking, that would depend on fate.

After sleeping soundly in his Dormitory Study for two days, before the palace examination results were announced, Wang Junmin decided to return home for a visit. However, as soon as he stepped out, he noticed that nearly everyone passing by seemed to be pointing and whispering about him. Accustomed to solitude, he usually paid no attention to others’ opinions. Yet, almost every student he encountered in the Imperial Academy was looking at him strangely, and he couldn’t help but slow his pace as fragments of conversations reached his ears.

"Rumor has it that Wang Junmin is this year’s top candidate!"

"Perhaps! Wang Kanghou is, after all, the top student in the Upper Dormitory of the Imperial Academy!""That doesn't sound right either... The golden rank list hasn't even been released yet, yet such rumors are already spreading everywhere. I suspect someone probably doesn't want him to pass the imperial examination."

"True enough. If the chief examiner wishes to avoid suspicion, he might think Scholar Wang is deliberately building up his own reputation and would surely eliminate him!"

"Exactly! The chief examiner for this year's Xinchou imperial examination is Lord Wang Anshi, Wang Jiefu, who despises those seeking fame through unscrupulous means the most. Someone's going to suffer this time!"

Wang Junmin listened to those voices filled with envy, disgust, or sarcasm, feeling as if he had been struck on the back of his head. His mind went blank with a buzzing sound, and he nearly lost the strength to stand.

Clenching his jaw, he barely managed to avoid making a spectacle of himself in front of others, forcing himself to turn around step by step and walk back to his room.

He sat frozen at his desk for a long time before raising a hand to wipe his face, discovering his palm was damp—though he couldn't tell whether it was sweat from his cheeks or his palms.

He understood the saying that those who aren't envied are mediocre. But the problem must lie with him; otherwise, why would rumors only target him and not others?

Two years ago, during the previous examination, Zhang Shizheng had been in a similar situation, yet no one had tried to trip him up.

So... was it all for nothing? Under such circumstances, any reasonable person wouldn't let him become a jinshi, would they?

The immense pressure he had suppressed for years finally erupted. Wang Junmin had practically staked everything on this examination. Would nearly twenty years of arduous study ultimately go to waste? Perhaps it was his imagination, but the discussions outside seemed to grow louder, making him dizzy and disoriented.

His spirit shattered, he could no longer control the resentment in his heart. He stood up and swept his sleeve across the desk, sending the Scholar's Objects crashing to the floor in a series of crisp clatters and pings, which abruptly silenced the chatter outside.

Gasping for breath, Wang Junmin slumped back into his chair. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a familiar Jade Weng Zhong spinning and sliding to a stop before him.

In moments of vulnerability, people often instinctively seek someone or something to blame. Wang Junmin immediately recalled the unlucky rumors associated with this Jade Weng Zhong and remembered how, after nothing had gone wrong for two years, he had placed it in his stationery lacquer box just before the examination... and now... this had happened.

Though he knew it had nothing to do with the Jade Weng Zhong, if everyone could always remain rational, there would be no such concept as taking anger out on others.

Bending over, Wang Junmin grabbed the Jade Weng Zhong from the floor, intending to vent his fury by hurling it against the wall. But the moment his palm touched the smooth, moist jade, the long-forgotten sensation jolted him back to his senses.

He took a deep breath, slowly uncurled his fingers, and looked down at the Jade Weng Zhong lying quietly in his palm.

The tassel cord was dirty, bearing charred burn marks. He hadn't thought to replace it since the fire. Wang Junmin stroked the Jade Weng Zhong nostalgically, feeling the initially cool jade gradually warm to his body temperature.

Perhaps from the recent fall, a few more cracks had appeared in addition to those in his memory. Wang Junmin sighed softly, his turbulent emotions finally calming. He picked up the stationery lacquer box, first carefully placing the Jade Weng Zhong back inside, then gathering the scattered items from the floor.Very well, he should leave now. Staying here would only make a spectacle of himself. The officials would likely feel uncomfortable seeing him. He’d better bid them farewell after the results were announced.

What a pity... to have let down the high expectations of the Chief Secretary...

Feeling utterly dejected, Wang Junmin packed his belongings and returned home under the scrutiny of others. He shut his door to visitors and buried himself in sleep. After several days of drifting through this daze, the day of the results arrived. As celebratory announcements, firecrackers, and gongs echoed through the streets, his expression shifted between gloom and uncertainty. After what felt like an eternity, he suddenly heard a burst of firecrackers at his courtyard gate, followed by someone loudly proclaiming, “He’s passed! He’s passed! The young master has passed!”

Everything happened so abruptly. By the time Wang Junmin fully regained his senses, he had already completed the palace examination, paraded through the streets, and celebrated with wine—days had passed without his realizing it.

“Kanghou, you’re finally awake?” Chu Yushi teased, finding his friend’s state rather amusing. Still, putting himself in his friend’s shoes, he reckoned he wouldn’t have fared much better if he had achieved such glory.

“I... I really came out as the top scholar?” Wang Junmin still couldn’t quite believe it, though vague memories lingered—thanking the emperor in the main hall, gathering renowned flowers as a Flower Scout alongside two other young scholars from the same cohort, and attending the Flower Banquet at Apricot Garden. The scenes of toasts and revelry were like a series of blurred images, impossible for his hungover mind to piece together clearly.

“Yes, yes, first place in the first rank—what else could it be but the top scholar? Wang, the champion!” Chu Yushi handed him a bowl of freshly brewed sobering soup, eyeing the new top scholar with a smile. “We really have to thank Mr. Linchuan this time. If he hadn’t taken a liking to your essay and strongly recommended you, this honor might have been in jeopardy.”

Wang Junmin downed the slightly bitter sobering soup in one gulp, and his headache eased slightly. Mr. Linchuan was none other than Wang Anshi. Still troubled by the rumors before the exam, Wang Junmin frowned and said, “Doesn’t this put Mr. Linchuan in a difficult position?”

“It’s fine, Kanghou. You have genuine talent. The rumors were spread intentionally to harm you. Now, it feels almost like fate, and it’s bound to become a celebrated story.” Chu Yushi waved it off dismissively. His gaze fell on an open lacquered stationery box nearby, where he spotted the Jade Weng Zhong that had left such a strong impression on him. He couldn’t help but complain, “Kanghou, why are you still keeping this Jade Weng Zhong? You nearly burned to death, then almost had your reputation ruined by rumors—you were one step away from having to die to prove your innocence. Scholars value their reputation and lives above all, and you almost lost both. Isn’t that proof of the misfortune this Jade Weng Zhong brings? I think it’s best to get rid of it.”

“...” Wang Junmin held his head, still not fully alert. He heard his friend’s words, but his mind was sluggish, struggling to process them. After a long pause, he stammered, “Maybe... we should return it to the antique shop’s Boss...”

“Why return it? So it can bring misfortune to others? Fine, if you can’t bear to throw it away, I’ll do it for you.” With swift determination, Chu Yushi snatched the Jade Weng Zhong, resolved to free his friend from the shadow of ill fortune."This..." Wang Junmin's words to stop his friend faltered, and he couldn't help but ask himself—did he truly have no intention of sending away this Jade Weng Zhong? Admit it, in fact he also felt plagued by misfortune, but he simply didn't want to personally discard the Jade Weng Zhong, unwilling to play the villain.

And so, he quietly watched his friend walk out the door, slowly closing his eyes.

Yes, he was now the newly crowned top scholar.

After a good night's sleep, when he opened his eyes again, his life would be completely different from before.

Chu Yushi actually wanted more than anything to smash the Jade Weng Zhong to pieces, but he also feared this sinister jade ornament might haunt him in return. Therefore, after leaving the Wang residence, he found a secluded corner in an alley and casually discarded the Jade Weng Zhong.

Not long after Chu Yushi left humming a tune, a man dressed in a black Wrapped Robe from the Qin and Han dynasty period stopped at the spot, bent down, and picked up the Jade Weng Zhong.

Gently brushing off the dust that had settled on the jade with his hand, he gazed at the new cracks that had formed on its surface and let out a deep sigh.

"Foolish one, you bear calamities for others, yet are mistaken for an ill omen... What futility..." The man seemed to be speaking to the Jade Weng Zhong, yet also murmuring to himself. Moments later, he suddenly lifted his head to gaze toward the alley's entrance.

Empty. No one there.

Had he been overthinking after all?

A.D. 2013

"Whew! That was close! We almost got caught spying on the Boss from the past!" The Doctor gasped for breath, having just completed a journey through space. He collapsed onto the floor of the Dumb Shop, his head spinning dizzily.

"Fortunately, the compass reacted in time." Lu Zigang wasn't faring much better, but he still managed to get up and fetch two bottles of water.

The Doctor sat up, took one, and gulped down several mouthfuls before regaining his energy. He chuckled, "The Boss in ancient attire—this is the first time we've seen that! Last time we traveled to the Tang Dynasty, we didn't even catch a glimpse of him."

"We need to be more careful from now on. The Boss has always retained his memories. If he were to notice us, history might fork onto a different path, and our mistake would be grave." Lu Zigang reminded him patiently.

"Got it, got it." The Doctor replied casually. To him, the missing Boss was the real Boss; the ancient one had no memory of him and couldn't be considered a friend yet. "By the way, what was the Boss holding earlier?"

Lu Zigang, with his sharp eyesight, thought for a moment and said, "It should have been that Jade Weng Zhong."

"Jade Weng Zhong?"

"Yes, I recall from my previous life working in the Dumb Shop, the Boss once told me about it. That Jade Weng Zhong was originally an evil-warding talisman carried by Emperor Wu of Han. Over time, it passed through many hands. Though covered in cracks, unlike ordinary jade ornaments that can be possessed by evil entities, it still protects its owner from misfortune."

Lu Zigang took a sip of water and sighed, "But sadly, every owner of that Jade Weng Zhong believed it brought them bad luck. The Boss would always warn them beforehand that cracked jade might attract evil entities, yet those who claimed not to care would inevitably abandon it. People are like that—they never see the truth clearly. Judging by the clothing of the people on the street, it must have been the mid-Northern Song Dynasty. The owner of the Jade Weng Zhong at that time was probably a top scholar. After his death, he was falsely accused of having an affair with a courtesan, abandoning her, and ultimately, he was haunted by a vengeful ghost, lost his life, and his reputation was ruined. What a pity, considering all the cracks the Jade Weng Zhong accumulated for his sake."

In his previous life, Lu Zigang had been one of the world's finest jade carvers, so he held a deep affection for jade artifacts. Recalling the scarred Jade Weng Zhong, he couldn't help but be influenced by the resentment from his past life, his tone filled with indignation.

"Huh? Then why didn't the Boss tell the customers the truth?" The Doctor expressed his confusion.

Lu Zigang immediately looked at him as if he were an idiot. "Selling a cracked piece of jade and elaborately claiming it can ward off disasters? Wouldn't that make you seem like a swindler? Only a fool would believe that, right?"

The Doctor said he would believe it and excitedly stood up, looking around. "Where is it? Such a remarkable Jade Weng Zhong! I want it too!"

Lu Zigang tightened the bottle cap, a sarcastic smile curling on his lips as he said calmly, "Who knows? Perhaps it's somewhere in the Dumb Shop... or maybe it's still wandering through different hands..."

(End of Chapter)