Chapter 2277: Divided into Two Camps

Chapter 2277: Divided into Two Camps

As the group ascended the mountain, another group of people arrived at the halfway point and were guided up by Er Niu, who was waiting there.

These individuals being received at the halfway point and inside the academy were all previously students of teacher Wen and others. With the establishment of Zhenglu Academy, these students were all expected to enroll there, and the original private schools would cease to exist.

Scholars like Shu Rui, Er Niu, Da Bao, Jiang Yi, and Deng Shi's son, Jiang Huaiwen, among others, all became the first batch of students at Zhenglu Academy.

However, there were some private schools that were unwilling to merge. After all, they could adjust their own curricula and enjoyed certain advantages. But once they merged into the academy, they would be bound by its rules, and even accepting gifts from students would lead to expulsion from the academy.

Meng Yunzheng had no intention of persuading such private schools. Once Zhenglu Academy gained recognition and reputation, students would naturally flock to it. At that time, these private schools would regret not joining.

Shu Rui led the people up the mountain and stopped at the entrance.

Kang Shi and Hou Shi had both been here before, but many in the crowd were visiting for the first time and were immediately captivated by the scenery.

"The scenery is so pleasant, and it's cool here."

At the moment, a large crowd had already gathered in front of the gate. People were standing or sitting, enjoying the scenery, engaging in quiet conversations, asking when the school would open, and making quite a commotion, making the area lively.

However, there was one more thing that was very conspicuous.

Among the people present, it seemed as if they had divided into two factions.

On the left, people were dressed elegantly, appeared slightly arrogant, and wore polite yet relaxed smiles on their faces. These were obviously young masters and young ladies from wealthy families.

On the right, a group of people looked cautious, engaged in quiet conversations, and held their children's hands tightly. These individuals were mostly from average or even impoverished families.

The division between the two groups was clear and unmistakable.

Kang Shi and Hou Shi exchanged glances and quietly followed Shu Rui into the academy from another side.

Some people noticed, but they didn't say anything. People who could enter before the gate opened were obviously related to the academy in some way.

Outside the gate, more and more people began to gather.

By the hour of Chen, someone suddenly shouted, "The officials are here, the Prefect Magistrate is here!"

"And the County Magistrate is here too!"

The crowd erupted in astonishment. They turned their heads to see Xia Yan leading two middle-aged officials who were climbing the mountain on their own legs.

The crowd hurriedly made way, and the onlookers instinctively prepared to kneel.

Prefect Magistrate Fei, with a joyful smile, said, "No need to be so formal, everyone. We're just here to witness the establishment of Zhenglu Academy. Feel free to relax today."

Hearing his words, the crowd stopped kneeling.

Some people recognized Prefect Magistrate Fei and wanted to approach him for a chat. However, the two officials did not stay long; they followed Xia Yan into the academy.

Once they left, a buzzing sound erupted behind them.

"I didn't expect officials from the prefecture and county to attend the opening of this newly established academy. Meng Zhaoyuan must be very influential."

Someone nearby clicked their tongue and chuckled, "You must be out of the loop. This academy isn't an ordinary one."