In the early morning in Yingzhou, a thin mist, like a veil, enveloped this ancient city renowned for its flourishing literary culture. Qi Mingyue's inn was built by the river, and opening the window revealed the black-awning boats shuttling back and forth on the water. The boatwomen's clear songs rippled with the waves, a Jiangnan charm quite different from that of the capital.

"Miss, you're going to Yingchuan Academy to register today. Should you dress more formally?" Zhishu took out a light purple ruqun embroidered with magnolia flowers from her trunk and asked softly.

Qi Mingyue pondered for a moment, then shook her head: "Take that moon-white plain silk dress; there's no need to be too flashy."

Knowing her intentions, Zhishu quickly finished dressing Qi Mingyue. The girl in the mirror had her hair lightly tied up, adorned with only a white jade hairpin, her eyebrows lightly painted, and her lips lightly touched with rouge. Although her attire was simple, it made her appear even more refined and noble, with unparalleled beauty.

After breakfast, the master and servant traveled by carriage to Yingchuan Academy. Located in the east of the city, nestled against green mountains and facing clear waters, the academy was one of the most prestigious schools in Yingzhou. As the carriage approached, groups of students could be seen carrying books, chatting and laughing as they walked.

A huge blue stone plaque stood in front of the academy, bearing the four powerful characters "Yingchuan Academy". As Qi Mingyue alighted from the carriage, a spring breeze blew by, scattering a few petals onto her moon-white skirt, attracting the attention of several students around her.

"Are you Miss Qi from the capital?" A young man dressed in the academy's uniform stepped forward and bowed respectfully. "I am Chen Yu, the teaching assistant of the academy, and I am here to wait for you on the orders of the headmaster."

Qi Mingyue nodded slightly: "Thank you for your help, Assistant Instructor Chen."

A hint of amazement flashed in Chen Yu's eyes, but she quickly regained her composure: "The headmaster is already waiting in Minglun Hall. Miss Qi, please come with me."

Passing through a moon gate, a breathtaking view unfolds before you. Inside the academy, pavilions and towers are arranged in a harmonious and orderly fashion, with winding corridors and artificial hills and flowing water creating a picturesque scene. Compared to its solemn exterior, the interior is even more elegant. Along the way, you can see students debating in the pavilions or reciting books by the pond, creating a strong academic atmosphere.

Inside the Minglun Hall, an elderly man with white hair and beard was writing at his desk. When he saw Qi Mingyue enter, he put down his brush and greeted her with a smile: "This must be Miss Qi, right? I am Zhou Wenyuan, the headmaster of Yingchuan Academy. Your father wrote to me the other day, saying that Miss Qi wishes to come to Yingzhou to study. I would be very happy to welcome her."

Qi Mingyue curtsied and said, "I apologize for my sudden visit, Headmaster."

Zhou Shanchang stroked his beard and smiled, "Not at all. Yingchuan Academy has always been open to talented people. Miss Qi's talent is widely known, and it is an honor for the academy that she can come here to study." He turned to Chen Yu, "Take Miss Qi to complete the enrollment procedures and then arrange her accommodation."

The formalities went smoothly, and Qi Mingyue was arranged to stay in "Tingxue Zhai" in the backyard of the academy. It was a secluded courtyard with a quiet environment. Opening the window, one could see a pear tree in full bloom, and when the breeze blew, the petals fluttered like snow.

“This Tingxue Zhai has always been the residence of female students, and currently only Miss Qi and another Miss Bai live here,” Chen Yu introduced. “Miss Bai’s name is Lian’er. She is a local of Yingzhou. She is gentle and kind and should be able to get along well with Miss Qi.”

Just then, a soft voice came from outside the door: "Has the new sister arrived?"

Qi Mingyue turned around and saw a girl in a light pink dress standing in the courtyard. She was beautiful and delicate, looking at her timidly.

Chen Yu smiled and said, "What a coincidence. Miss Bai, this is Miss Qi Mingyue from the capital; Miss Qi, this is Miss Bai Lian'er."

Bai Lian'er stepped forward and gave a slight curtsy: "Lian'er greets Sister Qi. I have long heard of the talented young lady of the Qi family in the capital, and seeing her today, I can confirm that her reputation is well-deserved."

Qi Mingyue returned the greeting: "Miss Bai, you flatter me. I am new here and would appreciate your guidance."

Bai Lian'er smiled and affectionately took Qi Mingyue's hand: "Sister Qi, you don't need to be so polite. It's fate that we've come to Yingzhou. If you need anything in the future, just come to me." Her eyes were sincere and her tone was gentle, which made people feel good about her.

After settling in, Qi Mingyue was led by Chen Yu to familiarize herself with the academy's environment. Yingchuan Academy occupied a large area and was divided into several schools, including literature, history, classics, qin (a seven-stringed zither), calligraphy and painting. It also had facilities such as a library, a debate hall, and an archery range. Its scale even surpassed some academies in the capital.

“There will be a poetry gathering in the Debate Hall this afternoon. If Miss Qi is interested, she might as well come and watch,” Chen Yu suggested. “Many talented men from Yingzhou will be there, so it’s a good opportunity to get to know your classmates.”

Qi Mingyue nodded in agreement. She had come to Yingzhou to broaden her horizons, so she naturally wouldn't miss such an opportunity.

In the afternoon, the debate hall was already packed with people. Qi Mingyue chose an inconspicuous corner to sit down and quietly observed the students. The talented scholar from Yingzhou lived up to his reputation; he could recite poems and songs with ease and quoted classical allusions during the debate, demonstrating his considerable skill.

"Next, Young Master Xie Ansu will recite his new work for everyone." As soon as the host finished speaking, a murmur rippled through the hall.

Qi Mingyue looked up and saw a young man in a blue robe slowly walking onto the stage. He had clear features and an elegant demeanor. He held a folding fan, which added to his dashing and romantic air.

"This is Xie Ansu, the young master of the Xie family, a famous scholar in Yingzhou." A female student whispered to her companion, "Not only is he outstanding in his studies, but he also comes from a good family. Countless girls are infatuated with him."

Xie Ansu began to recite poetry, his voice clear and melodious, his words ornate and his imagery profound, drawing cheers from the audience. Qi Mingyue couldn't help but nod slightly; this young master Xie was indeed exceptionally talented.

After the poetry gathering, everyone moved to the garden to enjoy tea and conversation. Qi Mingyue was admiring the scenery alone when she suddenly heard a gentle voice behind her: "This young lady looks unfamiliar; could she be a new classmate?"

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