Chapter 124: Master

In this era, pursuing education and official positions indeed held significant advantages.

Moreover, Song Jingyun seemed quick to grasp new knowledge, so studying might not be too challenging for him…

After contemplating for a while, Jiang Mixia said, “Education is scarce mainly because it requires substantial funds, which many families cannot afford. Some people stop learning after recognizing a few characters. While our household may not be wealthy, we can afford to support your studies.”

“If you wish to attend school, then go ahead and study.”

“Thank you, wife.” Song Jingyun felt elated upon receiving Jiang Mixia’s approval.

“However…” Jiang Mixia hesitated. “While you recognize and can write some characters, my teachings may not be entirely standardized. If you’re serious about studying, you may need to start from the basics.”

If he intended to embark on a scholarly path, establishing a solid foundation from the beginning was essential.

If he progressed quickly, seeking better schools and teachers was an option.

Yet, starting from the basics usually began at the age of five or six. Considering Song Jingyun’s age, beginning at such a level might pose a unique challenge.

It’s truly a dazzling prospect to consider.

With the decision made for Song Jingyun to attend school, Jiang Mixia wasted no time. She consulted Jiang Youcheng and Liu shi on which school to send Song Jingyun to.

Initially surprised by Song Jingyun’s educational pursuit, Jiang Youcheng and Liu shi quickly expressed their wholehearted agreement.

The incident involving Chai Fa and others had left them all shaken. Fortunately, their acquaintance with Xun Yuanbai, his timely intervention, and subsequent actions by Prefect Zhao to hold County Magistrate Zou accountable had averted a potential crisis. If not for these circumstances, the outcome might have been much worse.

As they acknowledged the past events, they realized that future challenges could arise.

As long as their businesses thrived and they lived comfortably, there would always be potential threats.

If Song Jingyun could study for the imperial examinations and secure an official position, it would safeguard their family’s assets and protect Jiang Mixia. This assurance brought peace of mind to the elderly couple.

The matter of choosing a school…

For most rural households, affording education is a luxury. Even if they could afford it, the quality of education and the availability of teachers are often lacking. Apart from a reputable school in town, there was only a small private school in Dayangshu Village within a ten-mile radius.

The school’s teacher, Yang Shunde, was a respected elderly scholar who had devoted many years to learning. He held high prestige in the nearby villages.

Families from the surrounding villages sent their children to Yang Shunde for education. Currently, he was teaching around ten children daily, primarily focusing on basic literacy.

Given Song Jingyun’s need to start from the beginning like a child, Yang Shunde’s school seemed like a suitable choice.

After discussing as a family, Jiang Youcheng and Jiang Mixia, with some meat and snacks in hand, took Song Jingyun to Dayangshu Village to find Yang Shunde.

Yang Shunde’s private school was set up in his home, with a large room filled with tables, chairs, and benches where children aged five to ten were energetically reciting the “Three Character Classic.”

Upon hearing Jiang Youcheng and Jiang Mixia’s intentions, Yang Shunde stroked his goat beard and addressed Song Jingyun, “Do you wish to study here?”

“Yes, Master,” Song Jingyun nodded in agreement.

“Although learning to read and write is never too late, it’s quite rare to see someone of your age starting out,” remarked Yang Shunde, looking somewhat puzzled. “It’s not that older individuals can’t learn to read and write, but as one ages, memory fades, and tempers grow, making teaching more challenging…”

“So, I hope Master will bear with us.” Jiang Youcheng handed over a bamboo basket containing pork and pastries. “These are tokens of respect from us, just as others would offer. This is our additional gratitude for your guidance.”

“Much appreciated, much appreciated.”

Upon seeing the gift of pork and delicate pastries, Yang Shunde’s face lit up. The generous gift included a substantial amount of meat and exquisitely crafted pastries that appeared more refined than what was typically found in town; they seemed more suited for the city. With a smile, he graciously discussed the matter of schooling with Jiang Youcheng and the others.

As per tradition, a year’s tuition fee was five silver coins, inclusive of necessary writing materials like brushes, ink, paper, and inkstone that the students needed to provide themselves. Additionally, they were required to prepare a copy of the “Three Character Classic” and the “Thousand Character Classic” for daily recitation and literacy practice.

For calligraphy practice during lessons, students were expected to bring their own sand trays.

Regarding seating arrangements, as Song Jingyun was the newest and tallest student, he was to sit at the back.

Given that there were other students waiting for class in the private school, Jiang Mixia and the others didn’t wish to disturb further. After understanding the basic requirements, they handed over the tuition fee and necessary supplies, preparing for Song Jingyun’s upcoming schooling days.

As they were leaving the courtyard, they heard Yang Shunde’s stern voice from inside the house.

“These two simple phrases, you’ve been practicing them for two days now and still can’t get them right. You’re lazy and negligent during regular practice. Today, I will have to discipline you severely. Put out your hand, ten strikes with the ruler!”

Following his scolding, the crisp sound of “crack, crack” echoed.

The resounding noise startled both Jiang Mixia and Jiang Youcheng.

“Yang Master seems quite strict,” remarked Jiang Youcheng with concern.

Their son-in-law appeared delicate and gentle, usually well-behaved and quiet. They had never been harsh with him at home. The thought of his slender hands being struck, potentially ending up looking like pig hooves due to the punishment for his studies…

The thought was too distressing to contemplate!

Shaking his head with closed eyes, Jiang Youcheng muttered, “I can’t bear to think about it.”

“He does seem strict,” Jiang Mixia nodded slightly, observing Song Jingyun’s contemplative expression. She gave him a pat. “Feeling nervous?”

“Not really,” Song Jingyun replied. “I’m just wondering what kind of phrases they are that they can’t seem to memorize after two days…”

Jiang Mixia remained silent, pondering the situation.

However, with the text all in classical Chinese, understanding its meaning can be quite challenging. Simply memorizing without grasping the essence makes it even more difficult, especially for young learners who may struggle to comprehend the content.

Upon returning home, Jiang Mixia and the others began preparing the items mentioned by Yang Shunde.

Jiang Youcheng arranged for a carpenter to make the sand tray, while he went to the river to collect and wash sand thoroughly, allowing it to dry completely. Jiang Mixia took Song Jingyun to town to purchase the necessary books and writing materials.

Song Jingyun crafted a small bamboo box for himself.

Similar to a satchel, it was a square-shaped box that could be carried on the back. Smaller than a typical satchel, Song Jingyun divided the inside with bamboo strips to keep things organized. This way, everything could be neatly arranged without getting jumbled up.