Chapter Forty-Nine: Jade Chess Villa (1)

Among all battles throughout history, none has endured as long as the game of Go. Its allure is no less captivating than that of wine or women, earning it the apt nickname “Woodland Fox.” To some, it seems inscrutable—yet even village children and common folk can intricately craft its mysteries; to others, it appears simple, yet even the most intelligent and eloquent have spent generations probing its depths without mastering it fully. Du Fu once wrote that Go could aid in cultivating sage teachings, perhaps an overstatement, but when observing its opening and closing, manipulation of moves, advances and retreats, selection and sacrifice, the interplay of offense and defense, and the subtle exchange of strength and weakness—sometimes what seems a concession is actually a gain, sometimes defeat turns into victory, sometimes seeking the first move results in falling behind, sometimes safeguarding oneself leads to triumph—all these endless transformations and sudden reversals truly embody the highest art of strategy and the secret rhythms of masterful tactics. The “Thirteen Chapters on Go” contains many profound sayings, deeply essential and subtle. To summarize it in one phrase: every move strives to gain the initiative.

The Ming dynasty scholar Xie Zhaozhi likened Go to the “Woodland Fox,” emphasizing its bewitching charm rivaling that of wine and women. The infinite variations and complexities of Go naturally ensnare those who take it up, leading them to obsession, wasting time, neglecting their duties, and harming their lives. As the “Book of Meng” states: “Gambling and drinking, neglecting the care of parents—these are acts of filial impiety.” Occasionally, someone deeply disgusted throws their Go set into the river, yet such acts are fleeting outbursts; inevitably, they return to seek the game again, for true lovers of Go can never give it up. The fascination of the game is simply too compelling.

Throughout history, Go has often been classified as an art or skill, but elevating the Way of Go to a revered status belongs to Ban Gu of the Eastern Han dynasty. His work “The Meaning of Go” states:

Northern people call the game “Yi.” Broadly explaining its essence, its meaning runs deep: the board must be square, representing the earth; the Way must be upright, symbolizing divine virtue. The stones are black and white, reflecting the division of yin and yang. The arrangement of stones mimics the heavens. The Four Symbols arrayed, the play is in human hands—this represents royal governance. Success or failure, approval or disapproval, all hinge on benevolence and self-restraint, rectitude in danger...

Above are the images of heaven and earth; next is the governance of emperors and kings, the power of rulers and conquerors; below lies the strife of the Warring States—all encompassing the gains and losses, ancient and modern. When content, one forgets to eat from joy, and forgets sorrow in pleasure—this is the teaching of Confucius. Joy without excess, sorrow without harm—this is the essence of the Book of Songs, akin to the “Guan Ju” ode. Subtle mastery of softness, the alternation of yin and yang, applied to nurture life—this is the spirit of Peng Zu...

Ban Gu thus metaphorically relates the board to earth, clarity of virtue, yin and yang, heaven, and royal governance; the governance of emperors and kings, the authority of rulers and hegemonies, the events of the Warring States to the principles of Go; and joy forgotten in sorrow, diligent striving, the elegance of “Guan Ju,” and the vigor of Peng Zu to the realm of Go. The Way of Go is vast and profound, encompassing all things. From the teachings of the Three Doctrines, it is as the wise see it; the benevolent see benevolence; the intelligent see wisdom. As the saying goes, “A scattered wood on a small board may seem insignificant, yet it reveals the rise and fall of all things; a withered game of three hundred moves may seem trivial, yet it unveils the numbers of success and failure.”

On the road, Yang Xianxing informed Fang Guohuan that the Go tournament at Jade Go Villa would take place the following day, and there was still some distance to travel. Upon reaching a small town ahead, the four sought a guesthouse to stay for the night, preparing to set out early for Jade Go Villa. Fang Guohuan felt grateful for the guidance and companionship of Yang Xianxing, Wang Dong, and Song He, insisting on paying for their meals and lodging himself. The three men grew warmer and closer in their attitude toward him.

The next morning, Fang Guohuan, Yang Xianxing, Song He, and Wang Dong resumed their journey. Yang and Wang spoke of their skills in Go as they walked, while Fang Guohuan listened with a gentle smile.

After some time, a roadside tea stall appeared, and Yang Xianxing said to Fang Guohuan, “Sir Fang, the hour is still early. Why not stop here for some tea before heading to Jade Go Villa?” Fang Guohuan nodded in agreement: “That sounds excellent.” The four entered the tea stall, found a table, and sat down. Fang Guohuan ordered two pots of fine tea along with some small dishes and noodles to share with Yang and the others. Though this was a humble roadside stall, a few patrons were leisurely enjoying their tea.

Once Yang Xianxing had a cup of tea, he began to speak more freely, patting his chest as he said to Fang Guohuan, “I won’t hide it from you, Sir Fang, but my Go skills are renowned locally. Every festival, the county magistrate sends a sedan chair invitation for me to come to the government office to play a game. Yet, surprisingly, I sometimes decline.”

Wang Dong chimed in from the side, “Indeed, Brother Yang’s skill is unmatched in our village. The only worthy opponent he finds is this humble Wang Dong.” Yang Xianxing shot Wang Dong an annoyed glance.

Wang Dong paid no mind and continued, “Last autumn festival, the wealthy landlord Zhang set a prize of three taels of silver, hosting a Go match at his home inviting skilled players. Brother Yang and I bested many, and in the end, faced each other to a draw. The landlord was astonished, saying such a brilliant game might not appear again for a hundred years. He then doubled the prize, which we split.” He spoke proudly. Fang Guohuan smiled quietly without comment. Song He added, “I simply pursue the elegance of Go. That is why I practice this art and frequently attend scholars’ gatherings.”

At this moment, an elderly man sitting alone nearby, having listened to their conversation, slowly set down his teacup and interjected, “Judging by your words, you are learned scholars and refined Go enthusiasts. Yet I have a few words to say.”

Yang Xianxing and Wang Dong thought he would praise them and eagerly listened.

But the old man’s expression grew solemn as he said, “Though Go is called a refined art, it is mostly a pastime for scholars and gentlemen to amuse themselves. For ordinary folk, it is but a leisure game after meals and tea. How many can truly appreciate its profound mysteries? To devote oneself to Go as a profession, neglecting affairs of life, is beyond the means of common families. This is what is meant by ‘an obsession that wastes one’s will.’ Many who fancy themselves refined players adorn themselves with scholarly airs, but mostly seek favor with wealthy families, avoiding labor and commerce, mistaking Go for their livelihood, fishing for empty fame. When praised, they grow complacent and seek a path to prominence—pitiful indeed. Earlier in the capital, the Go champion was summoned, stirring up great commotion and almost causing a Go calamity. Farmers did not till the fields, scholars did not study, all focusing their efforts on black and white stones. The officials in the capital meddled too much. The martial champion can stabilize the nation—can the Go champion govern and pacify the world? Go can sharpen wit and increase skill, but today’s craze surpasses ancient cleverness and effort. Players such as yourselves, earning small stakes here and there, think yourselves exceptional—how can that support a family? Without true cultivation, one should not be overly fixated. It is merely a leisure art for pastime. I advise you to attend to practical matters. Though refined, Go is not a path everyone can attain with noble character.” With that, the old man tossed two copper coins on the table and rose to leave.

Fang Guohuan pondered the words silently, lowering his head without reply. Yang Xianxing and Wang Dong flushed with embarrassment and anger. Wang Dong muttered, “That old man spouts nonsense. What does he know of Go?” Yang Xianxing glared, “He speaks of Go without understanding. How dare he lecture us? Absurd!” Meanwhile, Song He, for reasons unknown, stared gloomily into his teacup in silence, his expression deeply troubled.

After Yang and Wang had vented their resentment, Fang Guohuan sighed and said, “Though the old man’s words were sharp and extreme, there is some truth. Though elegant, Go as a livelihood must be pursued with utmost skill, lest one neglect life’s duties and suffer loss.”

Yang Xianxing replied awkwardly, “Sir Fang’s skill is too shallow; he has been deceived by that old ghost. We have studied Go for many years and are highly respected locally. We will surely achieve wealth and status someday, not as he claims.” Wang Dong agreed, “Indeed, we have deep cultivation in Go. Our future is bright. That old man is old and cannot learn anew; his words are foolish. Let us not heed him. We must press on.” Fang Guohuan shook his head silently, paid the bill, and left the tea stall with the others.

After walking a while, Song He suddenly stopped and said, “Friends, I must apologize. I cannot go on to Jade Go Villa.” Saying this, he threw down a Go manual he carried, sighed, and declared, “I have wasted many years on Go without accomplishment, bringing only complaints from my parents and wife. From this day forth, I swear to renounce this art and return home to farming for a livelihood. I bid you farewell.” With resolve, he turned and left. The old man’s words at the tea stall had evidently struck a chord, inspiring Song He’s resolve to abandon Go.

Fang Guohuan was startled by Song He’s departure, truly surprised. Yang Xianxing and Wang Dong were equally stunned, staring after Song He in silence. After a long moment, Yang mumbled, “We finally get here, and now he leaves?” He exchanged a confused glance with Wang Dong.

With Song He gone, Yang Xianxing and Wang Dong trudged on gloomily. Fang Guohuan, however, was filled with deep reflection. After some distance, they neared Jade Go Villa, where the road grew crowded with people attending the tournament or watching the spectacle, all discussing Go. Yang and Wang brightened with excitement.

Fang Guohuan was surprised. “It seems this tournament is quite grand. Luckily we came here; otherwise, we would have missed this opportunity.” He then asked Yang Xianxing, “Brother Yang, what kind of tournament is this?”

Yang Xianxing replied, “Lord Wei Chi Yunlu holds a Go tournament at Jade Go Villa every three years, inviting top masters from across the land to discuss the Way of Go. It is a grand event in the Go world. Many enthusiasts come from far and near to watch and broaden their horizons. But for some reason, this year’s tournament has been advanced by half a year.” Then, with a hint of mystery, Yang added, “Lord Wei comes from a prestigious family renowned for Go. Jade Go Villa is truly a famous Go estate, housing numerous ancient Go classics and precious sets. I’ve heard there is a Go manual that glows at night, allowing players to compete through the night without lamps—it’s called the ‘Night-Glowing Go.’ It’s extremely rare.”

This book’s first release.

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