After my inner voice was eavesdropped, I became the favorite of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 96

Emperor Qianlong visited Jinling, and the beauty of this ancient city made him so happy that he didn't want to go back. The streets of Jinling are prosperous and lively, with a dazzling array of shops and the aroma of various snacks. Qianlong strolled on the streets, feeling the pulse of the city, as if he had entered a fairyland on earth. As soon as he heard that the imperial examination of Dayan had begun, he hurriedly sent someone to inquire about the details. After all, Dayan was founded by his beloved daughter Lu Xuanxin. If it merged with the Qing Dynasty in the future, it would also be his own industry. Selecting talents is a major event related to the fate of the country, and Qianlong naturally cannot take it lightly.

However, when Qianlong heard that there were no restrictions on the style of the imperial examination, he was immediately furious. He widened his eyes, as if he had heard the most incredible thing in the world. "How can this be! If there are no rules for the style of the imperial examination, how can we control people's thoughts? How can we consolidate the imperial power? Isn't this messing up the government!" He angrily swung his sleeves, and the teacups, pens and ink on the table were all shaken to the ground, making a ping-pong sound. His face was ashen, as if he wanted to swallow up everything around him.

Yongqi, Xiaoyanzi and the others were stunned. They had never seen Qianlong lose his composure like this, and for a moment they didn't know what to do. Yongqi was confused, not understanding why Qianlong was so angry. He tried to persuade him, "Father, why are you doing this? Although Dayan's imperial examination system is different from ours, it is not necessarily a bad thing!" Qianlong glared at him, as if he saw through him. "A good thing?" He gritted his teeth and said, "Is this considered a good thing? Selecting talents is a fundamental matter for the country, how can it be treated like a joke?"

Yongqi and Ji Xiaolan looked at each other, speechless. They secretly wondered why Qianlong's temperament became so strange after this southern tour. Sometimes he was happy like a child, and sometimes he was angry like a tyrant, as if he had a lot on his mind. They didn't know what Qianlong was thinking, so they could only follow him silently and serve him carefully.

In fact, who could have thought of it? The emperor of the Qing Dynasty and the empress of the Great Yan Dynasty were actually blood relatives. The prosperity of the Great Yan Dynasty was like a mirror, reflecting the decline of the Great Qing Dynasty. This made Qianlong, who always considered himself the "Heavenly Kingdom", feel extremely humiliated. He could not accept that his daughter had surpassed himself and created a country more prosperous than the Great Qing Dynasty. However, when he thought that the monarch of the Great Yan Dynasty was his beloved daughter and a wise ruler in prosperous times, he felt extremely honored. This contradictory mood made him unable to calm down, and he didn't know how he should face this reality.

Qianlong spent every day in Jinling in agony. He wanted to see the prosperity of Da Yan, but he didn't want to admit his failure. His mood was like a volcano, which could erupt at any time. Li Qingge quietly observed the movements of Qianlong and his entourage. When she heard that Qianlong was furious about the issue of the imperial examination style, she just found it funny. She thought to herself: "If the eight-part essay was really that good, how could the Ming Dynasty perish? How could the late Qing Dynasty suffer humiliation?"

Thinking of this, Li Qingge couldn't help but think of the popular "Iron Teeth and Bronze Teeth Ji Xiaolan" in her previous life. In the play, she was deeply impressed by the conversation between Qianlong and Ji Xiaolan about the imperial examination. Ji Xiaolan asked in confusion: "What is the relationship between the imperial examination and the special examination?" Qianlong replied meaningfully: "The primary purpose of the imperial examination is not to select talents or to educate the people." Ji Xiaolan was even more puzzled: "Then what is it for?" Qianlong sighed and said: "It is to lock all the talented people in the world into the cage of eight-part essays, so that they will indulge in words and sentences and never finish studying them for a lifetime. In this way, the scholars will be content with the status quo, and the world will be stable. Even if there are a few rebels, they are just small-time bandits and cannot become a big climate. If the literati become ordinary people with nothing, they will have wild thoughts unscrupulously, which is very terrible."

Li Qingge was well aware of Qianlong's concerns, but she did not agree with his point of view. She believed that the imperial examination system should keep pace with the times and allow students to freely display their talents instead of being bound by the shackles of eight-part essays. She believed that only in this way could real talents be selected and the country could become more prosperous. Therefore, she decided to continue to promote her own imperial examination system so that the students of Dayan could soar under the free sky.

As time went by, the imperial examination in Jinling gradually reached its climax. Students poured into the examination room, some nervous and some excited, but all with a thirst for knowledge and a vision for the future. Li Qingge stood outside the examination room, watching all this silently. Her heart was filled with expectation and hope, and she believed that these students would be able to create a better future.

Qianlong sat on the dragon throne, looking at the officials below with a solemn expression. His heart was full of contradictions and struggles, and he didn't know whether his decision was right. He wanted to maintain the tradition and stability of the Qing Dynasty, but also wanted to make the country more prosperous. This contradictory mood made it impossible for him to make a decision, and he could only wait silently for the results of the exam.

Finally, the results of the imperial examination came out. The students of Dayan achieved excellent results one after another. Their essays were full of novelty and vitality, which made Qianlong and all the officials shine. Qianlong looked at these outstanding students and was filled with satisfaction and pride. He knew that his daughter did not disappoint him. She used her wisdom and talent to create a more prosperous country.

At this moment, Qianlong was finally relieved. He understood that the significance of the imperial examination system was not to constrain students' thoughts, but to stimulate their potential and creativity. He decided to accept the imperial examination system of Dayan and promote it to the Qing Dynasty, so that more students can freely display their talents. Li Qingge also watched Qianlong's transformation, her heart full of joy and gratitude. She knew that her father finally understood her good intentions, and was proud of her contribution to the country.

Heshen, the worldly-wise and observant flatterer, followed closely behind Emperor Qianlong with a fawning smile on his face. He echoed, "Yes, Your Majesty is right. What will it be like if they really embark on a career in politics?" There was a hint of curiosity and tentativeness in his words, as if he wanted to find out more of Qianlong's divine will from his mouth.

Emperor Qianlong laughed loudly, and his laughter was full of pride and confidence. "They will definitely worry about gains and losses, and will be afraid of wolves before doing things and tigers after doing things." He shook his head, as if he was full of disdain for those scholars who were bound by the eight-part essay. "They are reluctant to give up the black gauze hat and the flower feather, and they are even more reluctant to give up the benefits they have obtained. How can such people take on the important responsibilities of the country?"

From these words, it is not difficult to see that Emperor Qianlong was deeply dissatisfied with the eight-part essay system. This system was originally intended to select talents, but it gradually evolved into a shackle that bound thoughts. It was like an invisible net that locked all the smart people in the world into a cage, making them serve the emperor and the imperial power. Since ancient times, emperors have been thinking about how to strengthen centralization and how to rule dictatorially. The eight-part essay system was a sharp sword in their hands, used to cut off the wings of scholars' thoughts and prevent them from flying.

The imperial examination was originally intended to select outstanding talents and inject new vitality into the country. However, under the system of selecting scholars based on the eight-part essay, this original intention was completely reversed. Those who were selected were often mediocre people who adhered to the rules and did not know how to adapt. They were of no benefit to the country or the people, but only made things convenient for the emperor himself. If Li Qingge, the empress of Great Yan, continued to use this old method, then the fate of Great Yan would really be in jeopardy.

The examination lasted for seven days and finally ended. The examinees seemed to have unloaded a heavy burden, and they were all relieved and couldn't wait to run out of the examination room to have fun. In Jinling City, shopping malls, restaurants, teahouses, restaurants, theaters, and massage parlors were bustling with people. Along the Qinhuai River and Confucius Temple Street, there were crowds of people day and night, shoulder to shoulder, and there was an endless stream of people.

The subway and buses were packed to the brim, and it was hard to find a place to stand. Inside the train, candidates were discussing the contents of the exam, either excitedly or tiredly, while outside the window was the unique prosperity and bustle of Jinling City. This ancient city seemed to be celebrating this grand exam.

However, the locals of Jinling think it is too noisy outside, and most of them stay at home, using air conditioning to escape the heat, and wait until the excitement is over before going out. They may have become accustomed to the hustle and bustle of this city, but at this moment, they prefer to enjoy some peace and coolness.

Inside the palace, it was a completely different world from the outside. The tall palace walls isolated the noise and bustle of the outside world, leaving only tranquility and solemnity. After the exam, the test papers of the candidates were sealed and sent to the Wenyuan Pavilion in the palace. There, the emperor and ministers reviewed the test papers, and it was also the key to determining the fate of the candidates.

Inside the Wenyuan Pavilion, rows of bookshelves were neatly arranged, piled with all kinds of books and test papers. The ministers in charge of marking the papers were either sitting or standing, carefully reviewing each test paper. Some of them had passed the imperial examination and some even won the imperial examination. However, because they all came from the eight-part essay, their thinking might be a bit rigid and it was difficult for them to break out of the traditional framework.

Li Qingge knew this very well, and she was worried that this would miss out on real talents. So she innovated a dual-track marking method, where two people look at a test paper at the same time, and the two people must be a combination of old and young. If they have different opinions on a certain test paper, it will be handed over to the officials above to decide. This method is like our current dual-evaluation system for college entrance examination essays, which ensures fairness and improves accuracy.

Li Qingge had long criticized the unreasonableness of the eight-part essay. Under her advocacy, the old-fashioned writing styles are no longer popular. The Ministry of Rites and the ministers all understood her meaning and tried to avoid the eight-part essay and move in a new direction. However, old habits are hard to change. Most of the papers in this joint examination still cannot get rid of the shadow of the eight-part essay. The adults who were marking the papers were overwhelmed. They wanted to select real talents, but they didn't want to go against the emperor's wishes. This is really a dilemma!

When it comes to the women's examination, the situation is a little different. In the past, women studied mostly for hobbies, to be sensible and manage the household, or to attract the attention of elegant people. They knew that they had little hope of taking the imperial examination, so they did not study the eight-part essay in depth. Occasionally, they would just take a look at it casually and not take it seriously. However, under the advocacy of Li Qingge, the women's examination gradually gained attention. She hoped that women could also show their talents and ambitions through the imperial examination like men. This move undoubtedly opened a new door for women, allowing them to see more possibilities and hope.

This imperial examination was undoubtedly an unprecedented event for the Great Yan Kingdom. The participation of female candidates injected new vitality into this ancient examination. They may not understand the complicated eight-part essay, but this "ignorance" unexpectedly became their luck. In the examination room, they either bowed their heads in contemplation or wrote furiously, their faces filled with a desire for knowledge and a vision for the future. When the officials who were marking the papers saw these fresh, refined and unique test papers, they seemed to have gotten rid of the long-standing constraints. They were relaxed and comfortable in reviewing them, as if they were enjoying a cultural feast, and the joy of work arose spontaneously.

On the other hand, the situation was not good for the male candidates. Many of them were deeply influenced by the eight-part essay. Seven or eight out of ten papers were all the same old routine. The examiners frowned and had a headache. Examining these papers was like being tortured. They secretly lamented in their hearts, why should these talented young people be bound by such a rigid style of writing?
Queen Li Qingge, the ruler of the Great Yan Kingdom, did not interfere too much with the results of the joint examination. She sat in the magnificent palace, wearing a gorgeous dragon robe, majestic but kind. She knew that professional matters should be left to professionals. The ministers of the Ministry of Rites were all carefully selected by her. They were loyal, capable, and the pillars of the country. She always followed the principle of employing people, trusting them, and not employing them if you doubt them. She firmly believed that experts like Pan Xiaoming could live up to expectations, judge each test paper fairly, and select real talents for the country.

In fact, in the heart of Queen Li Qingge, what she values ​​most is not the joint examination, but the palace examination. The palace examination is the ultimate stage of the imperial examination, and it is also the key moment to determine the honors of the top scholar, the second place, and the third place. Only by passing the palace examination can one become a disciple of the emperor, bring honor to the family, and become a pillar of the country. She looks forward to seeing those talented and ambitious young people contribute their strength to the development of the country in the palace examination.

The imperial examination lasted for several weeks, and the examination papers were marked simultaneously. During this period, the entire city of Jinling was immersed in a tense and expectant atmosphere. Everyone was eagerly waiting for the day when the results of the examination would be announced.

Jinling City was bustling with activity! The sound of gongs, drums and firecrackers was heard one after another, just like the New Year. The streets were lined with red lanterns and colorful flags, and the atmosphere was filled with joy. The officials who announced the good news rode the new electric cars specially made by the Ministry of Rites and shuttled quickly through the streets. These cars were red and festive, and were decorated with various flowers and ribbons. They were like flowing landscapes, delivering the good news to the homes of every successful scholar.

In the past, people went to announce good news on horseback, but now they have changed to electric cars. Times are really progressing! Ordinary people also followed the cars to see which talented person had passed the imperial examination. They talked about it, cheered, and some even wanted to get some money for the good fortune. Children were even more excited. They chased the cars and played around, as if this event also brought them endless joy.

In addition to sending officials to announce the good news, the Ministry of Rites also announced the results of the joint examination in two lists, one for men and one for women. The ratio of admission had been set long ago, 70% for men and 30% for women. Once the list was posted, there were so many people watching that it was packed. Everyone stood on tiptoe to look around or lowered their heads to look carefully, fearing that they would miss any name. Those who passed the examination became the focus of everyone's attention, and their faces were filled with pride and joy.

Speaking of the announcement of the results, there used to be a custom called "catching a son-in-law under the list". Those wealthy gentry would take advantage of the announcement of the results to pick sons-in-law. In fact, it's not picking at all, it's simply snatching! As long as someone shouted "I passed", as long as they were not too ugly, they would be immediately dragged to get married. The wedding and everything were prepared in advance, just waiting for the new couple to move in. So, boys in the past had to be careful, so as not to be "caught" to be a son-in-law by accident. Fortunately, the laws of the Great Yan Kingdom now protect marriage and personal freedom, and this trend has gradually disappeared. But even so, every time the results are announced, there will still be some curious people watching, wanting to catch a glimpse of the style of those successful scholars.

When the results of the imperial examination came out, some were happy and some were worried. The male candidates were more worried because of the low admission rate. They were either sad or crying silently, as if all their efforts had come to nothing. As for the female candidates, since they had never had the opportunity to take the imperial examination to become an official, most of them did not study for a career in the government. Many of them took the exam out of their love for knowledge and the challenge to themselves. Therefore, when they learned that they had passed the imperial examination, most of them were overjoyed, as if they saw a new world opening its doors to them. And those female candidates who did not pass the imperial examination would not be too sad. They knew that this exam was just a starting point in their lives, and there would be more opportunities waiting for them to grasp in the future.

After the examination, Pan Xiaoming went to ask Queen Li Qingge about the date of the palace examination. He was wearing an official uniform and a black gauze hat, looking gentle and elegant. The queen sat on the dragon throne and smiled faintly, revealing a kind of majesty and kindness. She said: "I just happen to be free recently. It is naturally a great joy to be named on the list of successful candidates. If we can select the top three, it will be even more joyful. Let's pick an auspicious day to hold the palace examination." Pan Xiaoming took the order and withdrew as soon as he heard it. He quickly asked someone to check the almanac to find the best day to hold this grand examination. In the end, they decided to hold the palace examination ten days later.

During these ten days, the entire Jinling City was immersed in a tense and expectant atmosphere. The scholars who passed the imperial examinations were extremely busy. They were busy preparing for the palace examinations, visiting famous teachers for advice, or adjusting their mentality and state. They knew that this exam was of great significance to them, and only by passing this exam could they truly become the pillars of the country.

Finally, the day of the palace examination arrived. The morning sun shone all over Jinling City and also on the scholars who were about to take the exam. They walked into the solemn and mysterious palace wearing gorgeous clothes, with confident smiles, or with firm steps. There, they would be personally tested by the emperor and would also usher in the most important moment of their lives.

The palace examination is the last hurdle of the imperial examination. If you pass it, you can become a Jinshi, the best in the imperial examination. There are three types of Jinshi! Each one represents supreme glory and status. Those scholars know that only by passing this exam can they truly realize their dreams and ambitions. Therefore, they tried their best, shed sweat and wisdom, and wrote their future and life on the test paper. On the long and glorious road of the ancient imperial examination, the top three are like bright stars, especially eye-catching - the top scholar, the second place, and the third place. They are not only the pinnacle of knowledge, but also awarded the supreme honor of "Jinshi Jidi". They are like the pride of heaven, standing at the top of the pyramid of scholars, enjoying endless admiration and praise from the world.

The second class, which followed closely behind, was not as rare as the first class, but it also accounted for one-third of the total number of admissions. They were honored as "Jinshi Chuan", a name that sounded equally loud and was enough to bring honor to the family and be praised by the village. There were also many talented people in the second class, but fate made them miss the first class. However, this fame was the dream destination of many people.

The third place has the largest number of candidates, accounting for almost two-thirds of the candidates for the palace examination. Their title is "Tong Jinshi Chuan". Although this title does not sound as dazzling as the first two, it is also a proof of hard work and a solid reputation, enough for them to take a solid step in their official career. Among the third place, there are also many diligent and hardworking people with unlimited potential, who will be able to realize their ambitions when the time is right.

It is worth mentioning that the top two and three candidates can also get an additional title of "Chuanlu". Although this is not as glorious as the first place, it can bring some extra preferential treatment and care when they are appointed as officials, which can be regarded as a recognition and encouragement of their efforts.

There are still ten days to go before the palace examination that will decide their fate. The candidates are all preparing for the exam as if they are facing a formidable enemy and dare not slack off. On the one hand, they need to review the past and learn new things, integrate what they have learned, and strive to quote classics and criticize current problems in the palace examination to show their real talents and knowledge; on the other hand, they also need to patiently wait for the arrival of officials from the Ministry of Rites to tailor their clothes for them and prepare the official uniforms that symbolize their status and honor. This official uniform is not only a piece of clothing, but also a symbol of their upcoming career and a new stage in life.

Finally, the much-anticipated day of the palace examination arrived. The examinees wore newly made official robes, and the bright color seemed to be the fire of hope burning in their hearts, reflecting their nervous and excited faces. They tidied their appearance and stepped into the solemn palace in high spirits, with each step firmly and powerfully, as if announcing to the world that they were ready for this battle of wits.

The road to the imperial examination was full of thorns. Those who could pass the provincial examination were called "juren". In the folk, the common people affectionately called them "laoye". Although this fame was not as prominent as that of Jinshi, it was enough for them to get a small official position in the local area and become the respected one. And those who could pass the joint examination had an even more respected status. Although they did not reach the pinnacle of the palace examination, they were already qualified to be appointed as officials. It was just that their future might be relatively limited and it was difficult for them to easily climb to a high position. But even so, it was enough to make people envious.

Officials should pay attention to their appearance, especially when meeting the emperor. They must not be careless. This is just like a job interview in the modern workplace. Wearing a suit and tie and being neat and tidy is a respect for others and a responsibility for oneself. Candidates are well aware of this, so before the palace examination, they will prepare carefully to ensure that they appear in front of the emperor in the most perfect manner.

Time passed quietly as the candidates reviewed intensively and prepared carefully, and in the blink of an eye, it was the day of the palace examination that would decide their fate.

That morning, just as the sky was turning pale, the examinees got up and followed the officials of the Ministry of Rites into the magnificent Dayan Palace. Although the palace was newly built, it did not completely copy the regulations of the Forbidden City, but incorporated many novel designs. Li Qingge, a examinee who had watched too many TV dramas in her previous life, was familiar with the layout of the Forbidden City's front three halls, the back three palaces, the east and west six palaces, and the Cining Palace. But when she stepped into the Dayan Palace, she found that there were many differences here.

In addition to the palace, there are many new facilities, such as fitness areas, entertainment areas, fountains, large gardens, swimming pools, and even a golf course. It is simply a luxurious version of a palace resort. The existence of these facilities not only makes the palace full of solemnity and dignity, but also adds a bit of life and fun.

Li Qingge attached great importance to this palace examination. She specially chose the Hall of Preserving Harmony as the examination venue. The Hall of Preserving Harmony is one of the three major halls in the imperial palace, and its status is second only to the Hall of Supreme Harmony. In the past, the emperor's canonization of the empress and the establishment of the crown prince were all held here, which shows its importance. Choosing this place as the examination venue is not only a respect for the candidates, but also an expectation for their future career.

The examinees were afraid of being late, so they all arrived in front of the Hall of Preserving Harmony an hour in advance. They were either standing or sitting, or bowing their heads in contemplation, or looking up at the starry sky, and everyone's heart was filled with longing and expectation for the future. As the sun slowly rose, the first ray of sunlight penetrated the clouds and shone into the Hall of Preserving Harmony, and the palace examination officially kicked off.

Two etiquette officers stood in front of the hall, one waving a whip and the other firing a cannon. The sound of the whip was crisp and the cannon rumbled, as if they were blowing the horn for this contest of wisdom. As soon as the firecrackers sounded, the candidates picked up their pens and began to write on the test papers. Their pens were filled with their desire for knowledge, their vision for the future, and their desire to inherit and carry forward the national spirit.

The topic of this palace examination is about how to deal with floods. The establishment of the Great Yan Kingdom was due to a major flood a few years ago. When Li Qingge asked the question, she had a different intention in mind. She wanted to know how these candidates would rescue and protect the people when facing natural disasters. She knew that the Chinese nation had experienced hardships since ancient times, but no hardship had ever defeated us. We always stand up in the face of difficulties and become more courageous. This is the spirit of our nation.

She hopes that this question can test the candidates' problem-solving ability and their courage and sense of responsibility. In her opinion, a true official should not only have extensive knowledge, but also have the spirit of speaking for the people and taking responsibility. Only such people can become the pillars of the country and contribute to the prosperity of the nation.

Everyone knows that the chief examiner of this palace examination is the current emperor himself, Li Qingge. As the monarch of Da Yan and the only female emperor, she will personally supervise the examination today. The mixed emotions of excitement and nervousness in her heart are like flowers blooming in spring, looking forward to the warmth of the sun, but also afraid of the invasion of wind and rain.

The morning sun shines through the clouds, onto the glazed tiles of the Forbidden City, gleaming with golden light. Li Qingge is wearing a dragon robe embroidered with twelve emblems, and every stitch and thread on the robe reveals the royal dignity and majesty. She walks into the Baohe Hall lightly, as if afraid of disturbing the tranquility. She has profound inner strength, and walks silently, like a ghost, leaving only the breeze of her clothes brushing against the door frame.

In the Baohe Hall, the examinees had already sat in their respective seats. Some of them bowed their heads in deep thought, while others wrote furiously. The rustling sound of the pen tip on the paper was like the sound of spring rain falling on tender leaves, crisp and pleasant. Li Qingge first looked around the examination room of the male examinees, and saw that they all looked focused, as if the whole world was left with only them and the test papers in their hands.

Then, she turned and walked towards the examination room for female candidates. Although there were not many female candidates, their presence was like an oasis in the desert, bringing a different color to this male-dominated world. Li Qingge noticed that these female candidates were equally talented, and their handwriting was either elegant or vigorous, revealing their inner tenacity and perseverance.

At this moment, Li Qingge's eyes were attracted by a woman. She was sitting next to him, about seventeen or eighteen years old, and she was so beautiful, with beautiful eyebrows and eyes, as if she was a fairy walking out of a painting. She had a delicate face, fair skin, and a calm temperament between her eyebrows and eyes, which made people want to take a few more glances. Li Qingge walked over and took a closer look. Oh my god, isn't this Du Ruolan! She was a famous beauty in the drama "Return of the Pearl", and I didn't expect that she was also a talented woman.

Du Ruolan sat there, writing the test paper with a focused expression, as if the whole world was left with only her and the pen in her hand. Li Qingge looked at her test paper carefully, and saw the beautiful handwriting on the rice paper, using the hairpin flower small regular script of Mrs. Wei, a female calligrapher from the Eastern Jin Dynasty. The font was graceful and upright like a tree, and fresh and natural like the wind. The handwriting seemed to have life, jumping on the paper, telling of her talent and wisdom. The article was also written with great literary talent, citing classics, clear organization, and unique insights. Li Qingge secretly praised in his heart, what a talented woman! Compared with Ziwei, it is not inferior.

Recalling Du Ruolan's experience, Li Qingge couldn't help but feel a little emotional. Although Du Ruolan is outstanding in talent, her emotional journey is not smooth. She once experienced a painful relationship, which almost made her fall into the abyss of despair. But fortunately, she did not give up on herself, but chose to face life bravely and continue to pursue her dreams. Her appearance here actually has a lot to do with her family background. She is the only daughter in the family. Her father has no son, so he raises her like a boy, letting her read and write, practice martial arts and sword, hoping that she can be smart and protect herself.

Li Qingge looked at Du Ruolan, and an inexplicable emotion surged in her heart. She seemed to see the shadow of her youth, the self who was also persistent in her dreams and not afraid of hardships. She knew that Du Ruolan had talent and courage that were not inferior to anyone else. As long as she was given a chance, she would be able to shine with her own light.

Thinking of this, Li Qingge decided to give Du Ruolan a special care. She gently walked to Du Ruolan's side and whispered: "Ruolan, I have heard of your talent for a long time. Seeing your test paper today makes me look at you with new eyes. I believe you will be able to get good results and bring honor to yourself and your family."

When Du Ruolan heard Li Qingge's words, a warm current surged in her heart. She looked up at Li Qingge, her eyes gleaming with gratitude. She knew that this empress not only had extraordinary talent and wisdom, but also had a broad and warm heart. She nodded gratefully and said, "Thank you for your encouragement, Your Majesty. I will definitely work hard."

As time went by, the palace examination gradually came to an end. Candidates handed in their test papers one after another, their faces filled with joy or nervousness. Li Qingge looked at these young scholars, her heart full of expectations and hope. She knew that these young people would be the pillars of Da Yan's future, and they would bring endless prosperity and prosperity to the country.

Du Ruolan also stood out in this palace examination and became the focus of everyone's attention. Her talent and courage were recognized and appreciated by Li Qingge, which also won her more opportunities and respect. From then on, her life opened a new page. Under the protection of Li Qingge, she will bravely pursue her dreams and happiness.

After this palace examination, Li Qingge is more convinced of her beliefs and choices. She will continue to break the tyranny, advocate equality, and allow more talented people to get opportunities and respect. And Du Ruolan will also become her eternal pride and pride. In the days to come, they will work together to create a more brilliant tomorrow for Da Yan.

At the moment when her thoughts were flying, Du Ruolan's state of mind was like a slowly unfolding painting, and every stroke contained a profound understanding. In spring, the peach blossoms outside the window were in full bloom, and the breeze blew, and the petals gently fell, as if it was nature's gentle response to Ruolan's inner world. She sat in front of the window, holding a book in her hand, but she was not really reading, just staring quietly into the distance, with an unprecedented clarity in her heart.

Women, a term that has been endowed with many constraints and expectations since ancient times, have gradually shed the old shackles in Ruolan's heart. She realized that women do not have to rely on men to gain a foothold in this world. They can also have their own sky and live an independent and wonderful life. Love and marriage are certainly indispensable scenery in the journey of life, but they are by no means the whole of a woman's life. When she learned that Li Qingge issued a new imperial examination order, allowing men and women to serve as officials in the court based on their talents, Ruolan's heart seemed to be lit up. That was a dream that had been hidden in her heart for a long time, and now it is finally possible to realize it.

Thus, Ruolan began her journey of studying. She studied day and night with books as her companions. Her talent gradually emerged among her peers, like a young bud breaking through the soil in spring, full of vitality. From the college examination to the provincial examination, she passed all the tests, and each success made her more determined in her choice. In the end, she won the precious opportunity to go to Jinling to participate in the imperial examination, which was an important turning point in her life.

Jinling, this ancient and prosperous city, witnessed Ruolan's transformation. In the examination room, she was free and easy, and her writing was as fresh and unworldly as she was, and fascinating. After experiencing an unhappy marriage, Ruolan's understanding of life became deeper, and her writing became more mature, revealing an indescribable charm between the lines. In addition, she was good at writing hairpin flower small regular script, and her handwriting was beautiful and unworldly, which made the officials who reviewed the papers admire her. In the end, she ranked sixth in the female list, which was enough to make her stand out among women and become the focus of everyone's attention.

Then, she stepped into the palace examination hall. It was a solemn and sacred place, with magnificent decorations and towering roofs, which made people feel an indescribable majesty. Ruolan stood in the center of the hall, facing the high and mighty Emperor Li Qingge, and she felt an indescribable tension and excitement in her heart. The majesty of the emperor made her dare not look directly at him, so she could only look down and stare at the exquisite pattern of the colorful brocade twelve-chapter dragon robe on Li Qingge's body. The pattern seemed to contain endless stories and secrets, which made her feel an inexplicable sense of familiarity.

Realizing her own gaffe, Ruolan quickly gathered her thoughts and prepared to face the next test. She knew that at this moment, she represented not only herself, but also all the women who wanted to prove their own worth.