Chapter 5: Dry Halberd Jade Silk

The rain had stopped, and the sky was a clear blue. After the rain, the air was crisp and cool.

Xiao Ce had just finished lunch and was walking along the path through the rock garden. He had heard earlier that the Fifth Princess was on good terms with him, so perhaps she would be able to persuade the Empress.

“Greetings, Imperial Tutor!”

“Xiao Ce, what brings you here?”

“I have come to seek the Fifth Princess for a matter of importance.”

“She is currently inside.”

Xiao Ce nodded and entered the room. “Princess, please forgive my intrusion.”

“Xiao Ce, you’ve come. Please, take a seat.”

“Thank you.”

“It seems you have something on your mind.”

“Yes. I have come to seek your help.”

“Oh? What is it?”

“I wish to visit the Library Pavilion.”

“The Library Pavilion?”

“Yes. I have read all the books available to me, and I wish to read more.”

“But the Library Pavilion is not open to outsiders.”

“I know. That is why I have come to you.”

“Me?”

“Yes. I heard that you are on good terms with the Empress. Perhaps you could persuade her to allow me to enter the Library Pavilion.”

The Fifth Princess pondered for a moment, then sighed. “It is not that I am unwilling to help, but the Empress is very strict about the Library Pavilion. She does not allow anyone to enter without her permission.”

“I understand. But perhaps… if you could speak to her on my behalf…”

“I will try. But I cannot guarantee anything.”

“Thank you, Princess. Your help is greatly appreciated.”

“Do not mention it. We are friends, are we not?”

Xiao Ce smiled. “Indeed.”

“Very well. I will go speak to the Empress now. Please wait here.”

“Thank you.”

The Fifth Princess rose and left the room. Xiao Ce waited patiently, his heart filled with anticipation. He knew that entering the Library Pavilion was a long shot, but he had to try. It was the only way he could continue his studies and gain the knowledge he craved.

After some time, the Fifth Princess returned, a hopeful expression on her face.

“Good news, Xiao Ce! The Empress has agreed to let you enter the Library Pavilion.”

Xiao Ce’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really?”

“Yes. But there are conditions. You must not disturb anything, and you must only read the books that are available to the public.”

“I understand. I will abide by the conditions.”

“Very good. You may go to the Library Pavilion now. Just present this token to the guard at the entrance.”

The Fifth Princess handed Xiao Ce a small jade token.

“Thank you, Princess. Thank you very much.”

“You are welcome. Now, go. Your knowledge awaits.”

Xiao Ce bowed deeply and took the token. He could barely contain his excitement as he left the room and hurried towards the Library Pavilion.

The Library Pavilion was a majestic building, standing tall and proud amidst the palace grounds. As Xiao Ce approached, he could feel the weight of history and knowledge emanating from within. He presented the jade token to the guard, who nodded and opened the heavy wooden doors.

Xiao Ce stepped inside, his eyes scanning the vast hall. Rows upon rows of bookshelves lined the walls, filled with countless volumes. The air was thick with the scent of old paper and ink.

He was finally here. The Library Pavilion. A treasure trove of knowledge, waiting to be explored. He took a deep breath and began his journey, eager to delve into the secrets of the past and expand his understanding of the world.

He spent hours in the Library Pavilion, losing himself in the pages of ancient texts. He read about history, philosophy, science, and art. He learned about different cultures and civilizations, and he gained a new perspective on the world around him.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the hall, Xiao Ce reluctantly closed the book he was reading. He had absorbed so much knowledge in such a short time, but he knew there was still so much more to learn.

He bowed to the guard and left the Library Pavilion, his mind buzzing with new ideas and insights. He was grateful for the opportunity to enter this sacred place, and he vowed to make the most of it.

As he walked back towards his residence, Xiao Ce couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. He had taken a step closer to his goal of becoming a learned scholar and contributing to society. He knew that the path ahead would not be easy, but he was determined to persevere.

He arrived at his residence, his heart full of gratitude and determination. He knew that his journey had just begun, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With the knowledge he had gained and the support of those who believed in him, he was confident that he could achieve his dreams.

He entered his room, a smile on his face. He was excited to share his newfound knowledge with his teachers and fellow students. He knew that together, they could learn and grow, and make a difference in the world.

As he sat down at his desk, he opened a fresh scroll and dipped his brush in ink. He was ready to begin his next chapter, filled with hope and anticipation. The dry halberd jade silk awaited, and he was eager to unravel its secrets.