Chapter 51: Who is Bai Yu?
“Bai Yu… Bai Yu… Bai Yu…”
In the refined chambers of Huayue Tower, where music and dance flourished, a group of charismatic gentlemen and scholars gathered, exchanging cups and engaging in lively conversation. Seated amidst the splendour, they discussed the hottest topics of the day.
“Who is Bai Yu?”
“Not a resident of the capital!”
“A mere rustic, how can he claim the top honours in this scientific examination?”
“I disagree!”
“What does Brother Ji think?”
“In terms of talent, I recognise Brother Ji as unparalleled! If Brother Ji secures the top position, we all acknowledge it!”
“Bai Yu, an unheard-of individual, how can he overshadow us?”
…
As these scholars engaged in spirited discussions, their faces flushed from imbibing, they affected an air of refinement while subtly expressing envious sentiments.
Leading the discourse from the central seat was Ji Guangchong, a man of upright stature, impressive features, and remarkable poise—the second son of Ji Wei, the current Minister of Justice.
Hailing from a wealthy background, Ji Guangchong exhibited brilliance from a young age, studying alongside the elite sons of the city’s dignitaries. With literacy at three, poetry composition at five, and citywide fame at nine, his reputation preceded him.
This year marked his debut in the imperial examination, aspiring to make a significant impact and embark on a government career.
Endowed with affluence, intellectual acumen, and widespread acclaim, Ji Guangchong saw himself as the presumptive victor. However, as the saying goes, the higher one rises, the harder one falls.
Another usurped all attention, admiration, and brilliance on the day the results were announced—Bai Yu! An unfamiliar outsider with a name that had never graced their ears. The once-anticipated Ji Guangchong found himself eclipsed by this unknown talent.
As curiosity and astonishment surrounded Bai Yu, many eyes turned to Ji Guangchong. Some, harbouring a desire for spectacle, were eager to witness the reactions of the overshadowed prodigy.
How could this be convincing?
After all, the capital always outshone the provinces in matters of thought, economy, and resources. With their deep-rooted sense of hierarchy and superiority, the people of Kyoto found it hard to accept that an outsider had outshone their local talents.
For nearly a century, the top scholars in the scientific examination hailed from the capital, leaving little room for outsiders. This time, however, the tables turned, and a talented scholar from the capital found himself outshone by an unheard-of outsider. No wonder discontent brewed among the privileged scholars in this elegant chamber.
“Drunk, gazing at the sword in the lamplight, dreaming of the horn calls in the encampment…”
And during everyone’s words, Ji Guangchong lowered his eyes slightly, gently shaking his hands as he whispered the awe-inspiring poem that could endure through the ages.
“I can’t write,” he confessed, shaking his head. He addressed those present with candour, “I can’t craft such verses.”
Judging by the enduring poem that had circulated, he had indeed lost. A thorough defeat! This was a significant gap apparent to any discerning individual.
The poem had two levels: Bai Yu and everyone else. The majestic yet poignant depiction of an aged general dreaming of the battlefield, settling worldly matters for the monarch and earning posthumous fame—its brilliance was unparalleled.
“It’s written too well! This is untouchable!” Voiced some, unable to challenge its excellence.
Even if they didn’t acknowledge it, the ordinary spectators and lower-tier scholars reading the list recognised its brilliance. Their eyes were sharp.
“Well…” Ji Guangchong interjected, “Poetry has the lowest weight and isn’t the sole criterion for evaluating results.”
“And besides, this time, the topic was too biased! How can we literati understand the feelings of generals and soldiers on the battlefield!” Argued another.
“Maybe someone in his family has been a soldier! Then Bai Yu is just taking advantage of the topic!”
“I heard Bai Yu is domineering! He even offended the Xinyuan Mansion a few days ago…”
The conversation shifted, and despite their stubbornness, they found multiple reasons to belittle the unfamiliar individual who had overshadowed them.
Ji Guangchong gently shook his head and said, “One exam doesn’t prove anything!”
“I’m really not convinced! We will see the outcome in the future!” Retorted someone.
Applause followed, with supportive remarks like, “I support you!” and discussions about the upcoming poetry gathering hosted by the Grand Princess.
Fortunately, Ji Guangchong seemed unfazed by their remarks, his attention momentarily captivated by thoughts that drifted away, muttering softly, “Hu Yue’er…”
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