Becoming a literary master starting from the story of Minglan

Chapter 499 Recommendation
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Gongyuan (Imperial Examination Hall)

Inside Ju Kui Hall, candlelight shone brightly.

The large room was filled with long cypress tables, each occupied by its owners. The air was thick with smoke, yet so heavy it seemed as if water could drip from it.

Hundreds of anonymously signed and transcribed examination papers, like those awaiting final judgment, lay silently piled on a large desk. Dozens of examiners, dressed in official robes of various colors, sat upright with furrowed brows. In the vast hall, only the rustling of paper turning, the soft sound of pens tracing across the examination papers, and the occasional, barely suppressed cough broke the suffocating silence that concerned the future of countless scholars.

Qian Muzhi, the former president of the Ministry of Rites, had graying hair and beard, but his eyes were sharp as an eagle's, and the majesty of a long-time official was revealed unintentionally.

He strolled slowly through the room, his eyes sharp and penetrating. Occasionally, he would pause for a moment in front of a particular exam paper, pondering silently, which would cause the teacher in that room to feel a secret tension and hold his breath.

However, although these scholars held their superiors in awe, most of them still retained the aloofness and integrity of civil officials—the quality of a piece of writing is judged by public opinion and is by no means entirely determined by the level of power.

Another vice president, Xiao Qinyan, who had just joined the cabinet, sat alone in the front seat as the deputy chief examiner. His scarlet robe and jade belt accentuated his upright posture, but could not hide the aloof and cold aura emanating from him that was out of place with the traditional civil officials around him.

He paid no attention to Qian Muzhi, who was inspecting the papers, but stared blankly at the few excellent test papers he had initially selected on his desk, his expression dark and unreadable.

Since he stepped into the core of this power through extraordinary means, he has clearly felt the invisible rejection and cold isolation from all sides. Colleagues who may have been superficially polite in the past now deliberately avoid even making eye contact.

Inside the Ju Kui Hall, he seemed like an isolated island.

Of course, these scholars have their own integrity, and in the selection of articles, they may not easily agree with them because of their power or cold treatment; everything still depends on their talent and learning.

Moreover, the two rows of smiling eunuchs standing at the door, seemingly dozing off, are the Emperor's eyes and ears. Every word and action they take in the hall today will be recorded and heard by the Emperor.

No one dared to act recklessly at the talent selection ceremony!

With the marking of papers nearing its end, controversies surrounding the selection of the top three candidates are gradually surfacing.

A classical text, exquisitely written, fluent in allusions, and formatted with the precision of an engraving, was carefully presented to the master by his tutor.

Although the examiner strictly adhered to the rules and dared not reveal the examinee's information, the praise and hints in his tone were quite obvious: "Grand Secretary Qian, the solid and proficient foundation of this examination paper is truly rare in this year's examination. It is well-structured, strictly regulated, and without a single mistake or omission. It has quite... quite the ancient style of the Heluo region and the legacy of generations of scholars."

Although the words were subtle, many astute individuals present had already vaguely guessed that this scroll was likely related to Yuan Shen, the renowned scholar of Henan Province.

After all, the fact that members of the Yuan family were taking the imperial examinations was itself a signal.

This scholar is also a man of integrity; his recommendation of this article is indeed due to its excellence.

Qian Muzhi nodded slightly and took the document to examine it closely.

Yuan Shen's articles are like finely crafted jade, dazzling and in accordance with the rules. His insights are also correct and superior, making them exemplary works.

However, Qian Muzhi had been in officialdom for decades and had read countless articles. He had long since transcended the level of literary style. He always felt that although this article was beautiful and steady, it lacked the sharpness to break free from the cage and the boldness to face the deep-rooted problems of reality. It was more like an intricate embroidery on brocade.

It looks good, but it lacks warmth and softness, seemingly intentionally hiding its true strengths and conforming to current opinions without having any unique edge.

It is an excellent work, worthy of being ranked among the best, but it is not the best in this subject.

It's not quite ready yet.

He pondered for a moment, without looking at Xiao Qinyan, and said calmly, "He is exemplary in his conduct and can be ranked among the top candidates."

The order of precedence was not explicitly stated in the words, leaving room for interpretation.

Just then, another examiner from Jiangnan, his expression excited and barely suppressing his excitement, respectfully presented an examination paper: "Lord Qian, Lord Xiao, please give your discerning eyes to evaluate this policy essay."

—It was that magnificent article that discussed the general situation of the Liang Kingdom in the northern frontier.

Qian Muzhi picked up the exam paper, and the first thing that caught his eye was the calligraphy, which was bold and vigorous, with strokes as sharp as silver hooks and as strong as iron, penetrating the paper. He couldn't help but show genuine admiration and exclaimed, "What excellent calligraphy! It is strong and vigorous, with an inner sharpness. Only someone with a firm will and a broad mind could do this!"

He vaguely remembered seeing this handwriting on an unusually quiet young examinee when he was inspecting the examination cells a few days ago... Thinking of this, the scales in his heart had quietly tipped.

As he carefully read the contents, his expression gradually became extremely solemn. He would sometimes frown in deep thought, and sometimes his fingertips would unconsciously tap rapidly on the rosewood table. When he read the phrase "its weakness is also evident: the emptiness of its core, the troubles at its elbows and flanks, and the loss of its foundation," and cited the bloody lessons of the downfall of the previous dynasties Qianzuo and Zhenzuo, he couldn't help but tap the table with his finger and mutter, "Excellent! Insightful and penetrating! It resonates deeply with me!"

However, when the passage read that "the strategy for defeating the enemy should be based on 'strengthening the foundation and cultivating the source, seizing the opportunity to advance'", and put forward a series of bold ideas including strengthening the border troops, building fortresses, economically weakening the enemy, dividing the tribes, and even the final strategic decisive battle, some dissenting voices did indeed rise in the hall.

An elderly scholar from the north, known for his conservative approach, stroked his beard and shook his head, his face showing concern: "While this article demonstrates remarkable insight and boldness, are the strategies it proposes too radical and dangerous? In particular, the phrase 'seize the opportunity to advance' is too sharp and blatant, potentially suggesting a war of attrition and a desire for personal gain! If it misleads the court's national policy and hastily provokes border conflicts, wouldn't it plunge the country into peril?"

Several people immediately chimed in: "Yes, it's good that young people have vigor, but when selecting officials for the country, policy proposals should prioritize prudence and stability. Besides, his article directly criticizes the malpractices of the previous dynasty; isn't his language too sharp and harsh, lacking in the spirit of loyalty and integrity?"

Xiao Qinyan, who had been silent all along, had quietly walked over at some point.

He didn't look at the conservatives who held opposing views, but instead scanned the exam paper with sharp, knife-like eyes, lingering for a moment on specific strategies such as "dividing tribes" and "economically trapping the enemy," which coincided with some of his unpublished political views.

He suddenly spoke, his voice not loud, but carrying a chilling, penetrating power like an icy blade, instantly silencing all the discussion.

"otherwise."

Xiao Qin's tone was calm and even, yet every word was clear and resonated deeply with everyone. "When selecting officials for the nation, we must not choose those who are overly cautious and subservient. The troubles in the northern border are deeply entrenched; only strong medicine can cure the disease, and only a sharp blade can cut through the tangled mess!"

"This strategy can discern the strengths and weaknesses of the Liang Kingdom, and is by no means a theoretical discussion; although the proposed strategies are somewhat idealistic, they are not castles in the air and have practical feasibility."

"Especially the strategies of 'dividing' and 'trapping the enemy' are deeply in line with the principles of military strategy, including deception, reality, surprise, and orthodoxy. As for sharp words..." He paused, a faint, almost mocking smile appearing at the corner of his mouth, "If they can hit the nail on the head, pierce the deep-seated problems, and leave them nowhere to hide, what's wrong with that? Do you gentlemen really prefer to listen to those bland, empty, and meaningless platitudes?"

His words were sharp and incisive, not only refuting the conservatives but also implicitly classifying the previously praised, beautiful text as "flawless" as "clichéd and clichéd," leaving the examiners who had praised it earlier looking extremely embarrassed, yet they dared not openly refute this newly appointed Grand Secretary, known for his ruthless methods.

Qian Muzhi's gaze swept between Xiao Qinyan and the exam paper, his mind clear as day.

He knew that Xiao Qinyan was ambitious and had a sharp eye. His opinions were often driven by a strong purpose. Xiao's strong support for this policy was probably not only out of appreciation, but also to suppress the "rules and regulations" advocated by the Qingliu faction and to secretly promote his own political views.

However, Qian Muzhi vaguely felt that Xiao Qinyan's actions were somewhat strange, as if... he was not sincerely recommending this article. In Qian Muzhi's mind, he felt that the other party... seemed to... prefer the author of that ornate and Confucian classic article and wanted to elevate him.

Perhaps... there's an intention to win over the Yuan family of Henan Province?
Could it be that he intends to use this opportunity to consolidate his power in Henan Province?

But shouldn't this further denigrate this scroll?

Thinking of this, Qian Muzhi squinted and carefully examined Xiao Qinyan in front of him, pondering: Such high praise for this policy proposal doesn't seem to indicate that he favors the Yuan family's son. Perhaps... this is his roundabout strategy, intended to stir up trouble and create space for his preferred person.

Regardless, Qian Muzhi genuinely admired the sharpness, insight, and sense of responsibility for the country and its people in this policy on the northern frontier.

More importantly, the candidate who wrote this article is likely related to him by blood or family in Jiangnan, and he must support him both publicly and privately.

After a moment's thought, Qian Muzhi spoke slowly, his voice steady and filled with unquestionable authority: "What Elder Xiao said is indeed reasonable."

"In selecting officials for the nation, we truly need talents with insight, courage, and the ability to take on responsibilities. This article demonstrates a grand vision and perspective, far beyond what ordinary students can match. Although it may seem radical, its fervent patriotism and courageous spirit are truly commendable!"

"In my opinion, such a talent for governing the world should be the best!"

Upon hearing this, he immediately appointed him as the top scholar!
Regardless of the other party's schemes, he has no foundation in the court. Even if he has some connection with the Yuan family, as long as we silence him and make him lose face, the officials in the court will naturally understand what the big picture is.

Qian Muzhi looked calmly at Xiao Qinyan with a shrewd political wisdom. He took over Xiao's words while firmly grasping the power of final determination, giving Xiao Qinyan no chance to manipulate Yuan Shen's exam paper.

Xiao Qinyan narrowed his eyes almost imperceptibly, knowing that Qian Muzhi was taking advantage of the situation and unceremoniously picking the biggest peach.

He sneered inwardly, but remained indifferent on the surface and said no more.

The CEO made the final decision, and although some conservatives still had doubts, they dared not openly oppose it anymore.

The turmoil subsided, and the atmosphere inside the hall eased somewhat.

Just then, two masters of the academy suddenly spoke in unison from afar, as if they had agreed beforehand, creating a loud noise.

"Ok?"

Qian Muzhi's expression changed, feeling that his authority had been offended, and he said in a deep voice, "Who is making a commotion? Do you have some different opinions?"

The president's words immediately startled the two young room masters in the distance!
However, although they were flustered and knew they had acted improperly, they also felt that they had their reasons. So they stood up together and walked forward, saying, "Please forgive us, sir!"

One of them argued, "It's not that we were being disrespectful, but there are two papers...the writing is incoherent...it's truly baffling..."

"Feeling like sitting on pins and needles, like having thorns in one's back, like walking on thin ice, like having a fishbone stuck in one's throat..." Another examiner continued, "...these two people's papers really don't look like the kind that can be submitted to the imperial examination..."

As he spoke, two scrolls of ink and ink were presented.

However, this time the paper was not a wonderful paper at all; on the contrary, it was a complete embarrassment with many mistakes!

Qian Muzhi was displeased. After only a glance, he knew that this must be the examination paper of some powerful and influential people in the capital.

A nearby examiner curiously peeked out, exclaimed "Eh!", and muttered under his breath, "This handwriting...this approach to answering the questions...reminds me of the young master Dong from the Zhongqin Earl's mansion, who 'shone brightly' at the poetry gathering before the spring examinations?"

Although the man's voice was low, everyone heard it because the hall was quite quiet.

After all, with the pride of "Sleeping Dragon" and "Young Phoenix," it was natural for them to participate in various literary gatherings before the spring imperial examinations to enhance their literary reputation. Therefore, it was inevitable that some of the tutors were familiar with their handwriting.

After all, good things might be forgotten, and bad things might also be forgotten, but someone who is so bad that they don't even realize it, and is even smug about it, calling themselves a "hidden dragon," will definitely be remembered.

"Oh? Could the other one be the 'Phoenix Chick' who is equally famous—Young Master Yuan?" Someone whispered nearby, their tone full of sarcasm, as if they were enjoying the drama.

Qian Muzhi glanced expressionlessly at the two exam papers, which could be described as "disasters," especially the policy essay, which was filled with praise for the peaceful and prosperous world and the emperor's boundless grace. It did not mention a single word about the border troubles and the people's suffering. It was so empty that it was outrageous.

Looking at this bizarre text of "ink blobs fighting, utter nonsense," even the usually composed and mature man couldn't help but have his lips twitch almost imperceptibly.

"He is of limited talent and shallow learning, and is not capable of being cultivated."

He uttered those eight words again, his voice devoid of emotion, yet more powerful than any mockery.

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