Confucius embarked on his inter-state travels to seek opportunities in political service and fulfil his ideals. In 497 BC, Confucius left the Lu State and began his 14-year journey. The Sage was a great educator, ideologist and the founder of Confucianism. His righteousness, optimism and enterprising spirit has influenced greatly the character of the Chinese people from generation to generation. Yan Hui was an unworldly scholar who was gifted and a deep thinker. The favourite student of Confucius, he had a thorough understanding of his master's teachings and implemented them faithfully. Yan Hui was his constant travel companion, fervently following Confucius from Lu State to other kingdoms including the States of Wei, Song, Qi, Zheng, Jin, Chen, Cai and Chu; and eventually returning to Lu State. Together, they uncovered gems of wisdom as they embarked on adventures and contemplated on the larger meaning of life.