Chapter 4 Dislocation
Passing through streets, winding around buildings, and slipping into alleys, he left the hustle and bustle of the marketplace behind.
KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK.
"Is Mr. Liu Xuan in?"
Li Ang knocked on the courtyard door, which was opened by a refined-looking middle-aged man.
Pu Liuxuan, a Professor at Yizhou State School, was a good friend of Li Ang’s father, Li Hanquan, in the realms of literature and tea ceremonies.
"Risheng, come in and have a seat."
Pu Liuxuan managed a slight smile, if somewhat reluctantly, and pulled open the courtyard door, guiding Li Ang inside to sit.
Li Ang set down two cans of Qujiang thin slices and briefly explained with a smile that they were gifts from Song Shaoyuan and himself.
"Shao Yuan..."
Mentioning Song Shaoyuan, a trace of a smile crossed Pu Liuxuan’s face as he said warmly, "He’s always been diligent and sincere. As long as he doesn’t get too nervous this time, I see no issue with him passing the provincial exam and becoming a scholar."
"Yes."
Li Ang nodded. He felt entirely calm. Song Shaoyuan was generally good, but too honest and simple-hearted. Additionally, with some savings at home, he often treated people to meals and helped out classmates at the State School who were less fortunate. Whether one called it public-spiritedness or being a pushover, Song Shaoyuan always had a few literary friends around. The group often roamed the mountains and rivers, holding wine and poetry events known as "qu shui liu shang." With such a crowd flattering him, Song Shaoyuan must have been under great pressure. If he failed to become a scholar, it would be quite embarrassing.