A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 242 Famous Throughout the Three Capitals
Yan Shu took the imperial gazette from the clerk.

He unfolded it and examined it carefully.

First, the imperial court announced the promotion of officials to higher ranks and then proclaimed it to the world.

Emperor Zhao Zhen learned of Chen Congyi, a man of integrity and upright character.

The emperor immediately ordered the prime minister to write a "promotion report" for Chen Congyi and called on all officials in the country to learn from Chen Congyi's incorruptible conduct.

Back then, Chen Congyi was demoted by Kou Zhun for dereliction of duty. When Ding Wei took office, he said that he had avenged Chen Congyi. You must not kick him when he is down.

Chen Congyi said he would continue to get along with Kou Zhun, who had lost power, which made Ding Wei look ashamed.

At that time, Ding Wei held absolute power in the court, and even Wang Qinruo was deposed as prime minister.

Wang Qinruo lived in Nanjing, and no one dared to visit him.

Only Chen Congyi made a special trip to visit him and stayed for several days before leaving.

When Zhao Zhen ascended the throne, Wang Qinruo was reinstated as prime minister.

Because Guangzhou is a place where foreign vassal states are connected and where treasures and goods gather, the ministers are asked to recommend virtuous men.

Wang Qinruo usually admired Chen Congyi the most, believing that he was upright and honest and suitable for the position, so he recommended him to Emperor Renzong.

Chen Congyi was appointed Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices and concurrently served as Prefect of Guangzhou.

During his three-year term in Guangzhou, Chen Congyi was diligent in his duties, honest and self-disciplined, eliminated bad customs, and ensured social stability.

When he left office and returned north from Guangzhou, he took nothing but his salary.

Half of these stipends were used to repay the funeral expenses given by everyone when the father passed away, as a token of gratitude.

Half of it was given to the poorest families in the clan.

When Zhao Zhen learned of this, he praised it highly, personally wrote the character "清" (qing, meaning purity/purity) as a reward, and awarded it the third-rank court robes, transferring it to the position of Left Secretary and Imperial Edict Drafter.

Yan Shu reflected on Chen Congyi's character and found it to be true.

However, officials like Chen Congyi were few and far between in the court.

Otherwise, the emperor would not have ordered all officials within the Song Dynasty to learn from Chen Congyi.

The second incident involved Japanese merchants who impersonated envoys attempting to enter Tokyo to conduct business, but lacking official credentials, they were directly dismissed by the imperial court.

Officials in all regions should thoroughly investigate foreign merchants from now on, and if they do not have official credentials, they should not be allowed to approach Tokyo to avoid causing trouble.

Especially since Japanese merchants are so audacious, once the imperial court responds to them, what authority will they have left?
Both the Empress Dowager and the Emperor were extremely angry about this.

The widow and her child were almost cheated by something that resembled pigs and dogs!
From now on, these Japanese merchants will be subject to strict inspections when disembarking from ships, to prevent them from being discovered again in Tokyo.

Next time, I certainly won't let it pass so easily.

The third thing is that the imperial court has already issued a clear decree.

Next year's spring imperial examination will no longer primarily assess candidates based on poetry and prose, but will instead focus on policy essays.

I'd rather have some grandiose and naive political ideas than read those useless poems and essays anymore.

Yan Shu smiled when he saw this.

Because he clearly knows.

"Song Xuan's era is about to begin!"

Winning all three championships in a row is no longer an unattainable dream.

Yan Shu immediately ordered the clerk to copy the first and third key points ten times.

Notices were posted in front of the government offices and county offices respectively.

Then the remaining notices were sent to the prefectural and county schools.

This reform is not limited to the spring imperial examinations; the entire examination process, from the preliminary examinations to the final examinations, will begin to focus primarily on policy essays.

The era dominated by poetry and prose has come to an end.

Song Shou listened to the excitement in Yan Shu's words:

"Such a good thing, that kid Song Twelve really got lucky."

From the moment they met Song Xuan, it was Song Xuan's policy essays that greatly surprised them.

"Haha, he's lucky."

Although Yan Shu had known about this rumor for a long time, he was still happy that it had finally come to fruition.

"If it were in the past, when poetry and prose were the main criteria for admission, I still wouldn't have been very confident about Song Xuan's achievement of passing all three levels of the imperial examinations."

Yan Shu stroked his beard, a smile playing on his lips: "Now I can finally feel at ease."

Song Shou was also very happy.

Because of Song Xuan's influence, Zhang Fangping's policy essay writing skills were also greatly improved.

On the contrary, neither of them was particularly skilled in the Xikun style of poetry.

……

The imperial gazette issued by the court was quickly forwarded by Yan Shu.

A notice was also posted at the main gate of Yingtian Academy.

Starting today, the imperial examination system of the Song Dynasty has been reformed.

Poetry and prose are no longer the focus; policy essays are.

The news, once it spread, naturally excited many students.

"Finally, I don't have to study anymore."

"Hahaha."

"I'll be more confident when I take the deciphering test next year."

"Now Song Twelve will be under a lot of pressure if he wants to be the top scholar in the provincial examination."

As is well known, Song Xuan's poetry and prose were excellent.

Despite having failed the imperial examination before, Song Xuan's ability to rise from failure to become the top scorer in the entire Yingtian Prefecture demonstrates his immense talent.

"What you said does make sense."

Several students burst into laughter.

Who wouldn't want to do better in the imperial examinations?

They all believed that Song Xuanzi's strongest point in the imperial examinations was poetry.

Few people could see Song Xuan's exam paper.

But judging from the poems and lyrics that Song Xuan has written, who would dare to disagree!
His fame was renowned throughout the three capitals, and it was truly genuine.

Song Hao was very displeased to hear others gloating over his younger brother Song Xuan's misfortune because of the imperial examination.

Even if the imperial examination reform eliminated the subject that Song Xuan was best at all.

But you shouldn't do this. Have you forgotten the motto of Yingtian Academy?
"Fifth Brother, forget it, forget it."

The seventh brother quickly pulled Song Hao aside, saying, "There's no need to argue with them."

"They all failed the decryption test."

"Hmph, I knew it."

Having been taught by his grandfather, Song Hao naturally had to protect Song Xuan in front of outsiders.

As for any conflicts, family members should talk behind closed doors and not let outsiders hear, lest they become a laughing stock.

"Only those who lack ability will mock those who are at a higher level than themselves."

The seventh brother nodded in agreement: "Fifth brother, after we rest, shall we go and visit Magistrate Song?"

"Go, how can I not go?"

Song Hao had already shown a bit of shamelessness: "We'll talk about not going after we pass the imperial examination."

Inside the academy, such gloating remarks were heard incessantly.

Song Xuan heard these words without even leaving the classroom.

"That's a good change!"

Song Xuan chuckled to himself.

Zhu Yu, who sat next to Song Xuan, glanced at him sideways:
"With this change, you, as the top scholar, will no longer have an advantage."

Because everyone takes the poetry exam first, and only those who pass this subject can enter the second round. As long as the other three subjects, including policy essays, are not written too outrageously.

A ratio of one to three, they can all make the list.

"I am not good at poetry."

Hearing Song Xuan's words, Zhu Yu had a look on her face that said, "Did I hear that right?"
If you, Song Twelve, are not good at poetry, then how many people in the world are good at it?
I won't go into what I wrote before, but once that Mid-Autumn Festival poem was released, the whole of Tokyo was raving about it.

No matter how many people rack their brains to create a song that surpasses yours, Song Twelve, no one has come up with one yet.

Not to mention at the banquet in Luoyang, he made it sound like he was looking down on anyone by saying he'd ask for an extra poem.
One song per person.

In the blink of an eye, thanks to your rare and outstanding poems, paper in Luoyang became scarce.

Now, this person is telling you he's not good at this.

No one would believe it if they heard it.

Seeing Zhu Yu's expression, Song Xuan immediately reached out his hand:
"What I mean is that if I'm not good at Xikun-style poetry, I can just write whatever I want in the exam and I won't have to worry about it anymore."

"In that case, I believe it."

Zhu Yu glanced at Song Xuan and sighed softly:
"With this change, I don't know if I can pass the provincial exam."

Zhu Yu was genuinely worried about this matter.

"Just practice diligently. No matter how the questions in the policy essay section are phrased, how far off can they go?"

Song Xuan comforted him, saying, "Once I've finished photocopying all the past exam papers I have, I'll make you a copy as well."

"So many, wouldn't that cost a lot of money? With your wealth, Song Twelve, there's no need to spend so much."

Zhu Yu knew, of course, that Song Xuan's bookstore was profitable.

The people of the Song Dynasty were very enthusiastic about gambling games, so the lottery business was indeed a way to easily lose money.

"It's just a small amount of money, and it only takes a little effort."

After all, most of them are unfamiliar with the process of mud printing.

Outsiders would think that Song Xuan's lottery shop must have extremely high costs.

Whether it's paper or copperplate, plus the lottery machine displayed in the hall, it's all extremely valuable.

This has deterred many who wanted to emulate it.

This kind of business had already spread to Tokyo, and it wasn't that they didn't want to follow suit.

However, the lottery equipment is not yet perfect.

Zhu Yu covered her mouth and smiled, but didn't say anything more.

On the contrary, Zhang Fangping was in a state of great surprise.

The Xikun style of poetry is extremely difficult for anyone to imitate.

"Twelfth Brother, passing the provincial examination seems to be just around the corner."

It took Zhang Fangping a while to come to his senses and look at Song Xuan.

However, Zhang Fangping's deskmate, Wang Yaochen, looked rather unwell.

Having studied together for so long, we naturally know each other's weaknesses and strengths.

The policy proposals of Song Xuan and Zhang Fangping are completely sound.

On the contrary, Wang Yaochen, who was determined to become the top scholar in the imperial examination, seemed somewhat lost and dejected.

He was not outstanding in policy essays, but he made up for it in the Xikun style of poetry.

Now the imperial court has suddenly changed the imperial examination system, which has completely destroyed his previous advantage of passing both the preliminary and provincial examinations.

While the others were ecstatic, Wang Yaochen was frowning.

How could things have changed so suddenly without the slightest hint of it?
Upon hearing this, Song Xuan glanced at Zhang Fangping, who was overjoyed, and also saw Wang Yaochen, who looked somewhat lost.

After all, the reforms became increasingly disadvantageous for people like Wang Yaochen who had previously passed the provincial and prefectural examinations.

Because the imperial examination in the Song Dynasty mainly tested poetry, prose, and policy essays.

Wang Yaochen's specialty is switching things up in an instant; how could he not be flustered?
Song Xuan didn't echo his opinion, but instead said:

"Zhang Dalang, are you sure you can pass the provincial examination and the palace examination smoothly?"

Upon hearing Song Xuan's reminder, Zhang Fangping paused, his eyes widening in understanding. He then glanced at Wang Yaochen beside him and, seeing his grim expression, immediately realized what was going on.

Seeing that Zhang Fangping had realized what was happening, Song Xuan spoke again:

"Poetry and prose are difficult for you and me, but they are also extremely difficult for other students."

"Everyone's busy studying policy essays; who knows, some dark horse might emerge. How can we be so complacent?"

"We should focus all our energy on policy essays recently. Although poetry and prose will not be the main focus, they will still be tested in the palace examination."

"Twelfth brother is right."

Zhang Fangping instantly understood the meaning behind Song Xuan's words. When something like this happens, some people will be happy and some people will be unhappy.

To avoid trouble, there's no need to rub salt into other people's wounds.

Moreover, the relationship between the two parties is quite good.

After hearing Song Xuan's encouragement, Wang Yaochen finally let out a long sigh:
"You don't need to comfort me like that, Twelve."

"Sigh," Song Xuan said nonchalantly.

"Brother Wang, there's no need to worry so much. We still need to work hard to pass the provincial examination."

Wang Yaochen nodded, saying that he would also set off for Tokyo with everyone next year.

After all, when exams are approaching each year, if you arrive late, there's simply nowhere to stay.

Even if you have a place to stay, it doesn't necessarily mean you can study in peace.

Back then, renting a house or a shop was a huge expense.

Even so, there's no guarantee you'll be able to snag one!

"What difficulty could it possibly be for Twelve Lang to pass the provincial examination?"

Wang Yaochen glanced at Song Xuan, then sat back down in his chair: "Who knows if Twelfth Brother will become the top scholar in the provincial examination?"

"I only hope to pass the provincial examination; as for the provincial top score?"

Song Xuan paused, then shook his head:

"I'm really not sure about this matter. After all, it will involve all the outstanding students of the entire Song Dynasty. Those words were also spoken to myself."

"Yes."

Wang Yaochen passed the provincial examination, but he felt that the students of that year were quite strong, so he did not continue to participate in the palace examination.

Song Xiang achieved the highest honors in two separate examinations, making him a strong contender for the top scholar title.

His younger brother, Song Qi, is also exceptionally strong.

Both the Song brothers indeed became top scholars. If they had participated in the palace examination back then, how could they have had anything to do?
Therefore, Wang Yaochen felt that his choice was absolutely correct.

He then returned to the Heavenly Academy to study, using it to hone his skills and make himself even stronger.

Unexpectedly, the imperial court directly reformed the imperial examination system.

During the imperial examination in the fifth year of the Tiansheng era, Wang Yaochen glanced at Song Xuan sitting next to him.

Does it mean that if I, Wang Yaochen, want to become the top scholar in the Song Dynasty examination, I can't avoid people with the surname Song?
"Who can say for sure about things like the imperial examinations?"

Wang Yaochen seemed somewhat resentful, saying, "Isn't it just that the imperial court dictates how we take the exams, and we just do it the way they dictate?"

Compared to the last time when someone tried to secretly incite Song Xuan to take the blame and resist the reforms, but was exposed by Song Xuan in public.

Wang Yaochen believed that no one would dare to do such a thing again.

Moreover, most people's poetry is not that good.

Therefore, poetry and prose were no longer the main focus, and there was no need to go outside to listen to their noise. The students in the classroom were all overjoyed.

"Well, we're not the ones who make the rules, are we?"

Song Xuan stood up and walked to Wang Yaochen: "So you have to listen to what the court says, unless you want to rebel."

"Rebellion?" Wang Yaochen was taken aback by Song Xuan's words.

"I was just thinking that our advantages in the imperial examinations had vanished, and I was just grumbling to myself. Who would actually rebel?"

"Too."

Song Xuan did not believe he had an advantage in the imperial examinations, particularly in poetry and prose.

In order to achieve good results in the exam, he wasted a lot of time on poetry and prose before he finally figured out a little trick.

However, when it came to writing policy essays, Song Xuan felt that he didn't need to study much; he only needed to look at the history before the Song Dynasty.

When writing an essay, you shouldn't use examples from later dynasties, as the examiners wouldn't understand.

However, most students were extremely happy about the reform of the imperial examination system.

Many students who failed the provincial and prefectural examinations strongly supported it.

It's as if by changing their main track, they can dominate the competition and fulfill their dream of becoming successful scholars.

Only a small number of students believe that their poetry is exceptionally good, or that someone like Wang Yaochen truly has real talent, and that the tide has turned, putting them at a disadvantage.

After school, Song Xuan and Zhang Fangping strolled home together.

Even after leaving the school gate, many people were still discussing it at the notice board.

"Twelfth Brother, you're in big trouble."

Lü Lejian walked up quite cheerfully:

"At least in the imperial examinations, you, who are good at poetry, don't have much of an advantage anymore. I think the prime ministers in the central government are deliberately targeting you."

"Hahaha."

Upon hearing this, Song Xuan couldn't help but laugh out loud: "What kind of nobody am I, Song Xuan, that I'm worth the attention of the central prime ministers in the capital city of Tokyo?"

"There is absolutely no chance that any one of them would even know my name, Song Xuan."

Faced with Song Xuan's ridicule, Lü Lejian immediately wanted to retort.

But when he thought about how his cousin Lü Yijian knew all the information about Song Xuan, it was all provided by him.

He was too ashamed to mention it in front of Song Xuan.

In fact, it wasn't just Lü Yijian who knew Song Xuan's name.

Every single one of those prime ministers knew Song Xuan's name; otherwise, they were just showing off.

"Just in case there's a possibility."

Lu Lejian lowered his voice and said:
"Your Mid-Autumn Festival poem, along with the three poems you wrote while traveling in Luoyang, has become so popular that people in the three capitals of the east, west, south, and north are all vying to sing your praises. Who doesn't know the name of Song Twelfth Circuit?"

Lu Lejian felt that Song Xuan was already well-known, not some nobody.

"Forehead?"

When Song Xuan heard his name become famous throughout the three capitals, he was stunned and unable to refute it.

"really?"

"really."

Lü Lejian patted his chest:

“It’s not like I don’t have friends in Tokyo. When we exchange letters, they even ask me to confirm whether they know you, Song Twelve.”

"Twelfth Brother, don't lack confidence in yourself."

Wang Tai also chuckled a few times in agreement.

In any case, today's reform of the imperial examination system is a good thing for everyone.

However, this was an extremely "suppressive" act, especially against Song Xuan, a "great talent in poetry and prose."

Everyone knew Song Xuan's advantages, but he was abolished by the imperial court with a single decree.

Wang Tai could understand why his twelfth brother was so strong and cheerful.

"Why don't we go to Hongtai Lane again to have some fun and cheer up Twelfth Brother?"

Song Xuan was overjoyed at the reform of the imperial examination system.

How can one feel depressed?

"It's not necessary."

Song Xuan quickly refused: "Instead of wasting time drinking and carousing, I'd rather go back to bed and rest."

Alternatively, you could go back and spar with Wang Bao and the others; working up a sweat would feel quite good.

"Alas, Twelfth Brother is still a little sad and doesn't want to go out drinking and having fun."

Lu Lejian sighed: "Actually, all the brothers understand. Twelfth Brother wants to go find that courtesan himself."

"Hahaha."

Wang Tai continued to complain, "I think you wanted to go find the courtesan Yu Linglong, but she wouldn't serve you, and you still dragged Twelfth Brother along."

After joking around for a while, the group said their goodbyes.

Zhang Fangping chuckled twice:
"Twelfth Brother, they don't know your strengths." "That's fine too."

Song Xuan then waved his hand:
"There's no need to tell anyone about this. Neither you nor I can underestimate the students of the world. We've only had contact with students from the Central Plains. We haven't even had any contact with students from the South yet."

"good."

Zhang Fangping also felt that the provincial examination was a test in which all the outstanding students in the country participated.

Competition will only intensify.

Furthermore, with the sudden reform of the imperial examination system, they were the first cohort, so it was no surprise that some formidable individuals emerged.

The two chatted and laughed until they arrived at the bookstore.

As soon as Song Xuan entered, he saw Wang Congyi there.

His health has improved considerably.

At least he can walk on his own now, unlike before when he would cough and die after taking only a few steps.

"Long time no see, Twelfth Brother."

Wang Congyi knew, of course, that after Song Xuan passed the provincial examination with top honors, he went directly to Luoyang to study.

I just got back.

He had also heard about what happened in Luoyang.

"Brother Wang, long time no see."

Song Xuan smiled and said, "You look much better."

"Hahaha."

Wang Congyi certainly loved hearing such words, and the medicine developed by Song Xuan was indeed very helpful for his condition.

His father, Wang Qinruo, fell ill again and was taken to Nanjing to seek treatment from the renowned doctor Wang.

He had hoped to show it to Song Xuan, but Song Xuan heard the news from Cao Yongli and immediately left Songcheng to travel and study.

Now that he's back, he's still being blocked at home by Wang Congyi.

It seems his father's condition hasn't improved yet.

Wang Congyi did not disappoint Song Xuan; things turned out exactly as he had expected.

"Your father's condition is beyond the capabilities of even the renowned physician Wang?"

"No, it's mainly because my father wants to meet you."

"Oh, that's okay too."

Song Xuan had no reason to refuse, especially since Wang Congyi had come to invite him personally.

The Wang family's residence is quite impressive.

After all, this wasn't the first time Wang Qinruo had lived in seclusion here.

Wang Qinruo, Ding Wei, Lin Te, Chen Pengnian, and Liu Chenggui were referred to as the "Five Ghosts" by Prime Minister Wang Zeng, among whom Wang Qinruo and Ding Wei were the most famous.

The other three all died during the years when the two emperors were transferring power.

Among this group, Ding Wei was in the best health. He went to Hainan Island to eat coconuts and is still alive and well.

Before Song Xuan even entered the house, he could smell a rather strong herbal scent.

This was the first time he had ever met the current prime minister.

Wang Qinruo was short in stature and had a growth on his neck.

People at the time called it "goiter".

Song Xuan looked him over and quickly bowed.

Because Wang Qinruo was lying on the bed, he only occupied half the length of the bed, probably because his body was becoming more hunched over as he got older.

Wang Qinruo asked a maid to help him lean against the pillow, and with his eyes slightly open, he carefully examined Song Xuan.

He had heard his son mention his name many times.

In terms of both knowledge and writing skills, he is among the best of his peers.

Another reason is their excellent medical skills.

He even saved his son's life.

That was something that none of the most renowned doctors in the entire Song Dynasty could do; they could only let him wait to die.

"Father, it's good to have Twelfth Brother take your pulse, so I can put my mind at ease."

Wang Qinruo simply obediently stretched out his arm so that Song Xuan could take a look.

Song Xuan didn't refuse and sat down to the side, kneading for a while.

It doesn't seem like the rhythm of death.

This old man won't die anytime soon.

"It's mentally and physically exhausting. At your age, you should get more rest."

After Song Xuan finished speaking:
“Dr. Wang is better than me at recuperating. The body-strengthening methods I advocate are not suitable for Prime Minister Wang.”

Wang Congyi, of course, silently practiced the Eight Pieces of Brocade, understanding the body-strengthening method that Song Xuan had mentioned.

Wang Qinruo withdrew his arm and leaned back against the pile of quilts:
"Although Twelve-Lang is young, he is far more skilled in medicine than the average person. May I ask who his teacher is?"

"Replying to the Prime Minister, I still do not know my teacher's name, nor has he ever told me."

Song Xuan understood that someone as thoughtful as Wang Qinruo would definitely investigate thoroughly.

"Ok."

Wang Qinruo immediately understood that the other person did not want to talk about it.

"I heard you passed the imperial examination with top honors?"

"Not bad." Song Xuan chuckled. "That's quite unexpected."

Wang Congyi had considered offering Song Xuan preferential treatment, but Song Xuan firmly refused.

After the results came out, Wang Congyi realized that with Song Xuan's abilities, there was no need for him to help behind the scenes, which would only give others cause for criticism.

Wang Qinruo also started his career by passing the imperial examinations, so he knew how difficult it was to become the top scholar in the provincial examinations.

Even if Yan Shu knew who Song Xuan was, the exams were becoming increasingly strict, and names had to be copied over.

Furthermore, given Wang Qinruo's understanding of Yan Shu, he would be even less likely to leak the exam questions to Song Xuan.

This is enough to prove that Song Xuan is truly capable.

"I've heard that the imperial court has changed the main assessment criteria for the imperial examinations. Are you confident in your assessment?"

"I feel much more confident now."

"Oh?"

Wang Qinruo knew that Song Xuan was skilled in poetry and prose.

Unexpectedly, he was also quite adept at the main examination of policy essays.

Therefore, I was greatly surprised.

After all, as long as he, the prime minister, is still alive, he still has the opportunity to give Song Xuan some tips for the provincial examination.

As for the palace examination...

Song Xuan should just pray for his own good fortune; no one would be foolish enough to peek at the questions written by the emperor.

This is too much of a risk.

Wang Qinruo also felt there was no need to do this, and he would not provide Yan Shu with exam questions in advance as he had done when he fought with Kou Zhun.

As a result, Yan Shu himself made a fool of himself in front of the emperor, while leaving all the southerners behind.

Such confidence?

Wang Qinruo stroked his gray beard and said, "Truly a young prodigy!"

"You flatter me, Prime Minister."

Song Xuan first praised the teaching staff of Yingtian Academy and the full support of Yan Shu as the prefect.

In the academy, he only needed to focus on his studies.

Therefore, upon hearing the news of the imperial examination reform, they would naturally devote all their efforts to preparing for the provincial examination.

Wang Qinruo and Yan Shu were old acquaintances, and Wang Qinruo understood Yan Shu's consistent desire to protect himself.

In his view, when you're in the thick of it, how can you possibly stay out of it?
If you don't fight, you'll have to back out.

Because the position of prime minister can only accommodate a few people, everyone wants to be in it.

What if we don't fight for it?
Wang Qinruo immediately discerned the truth from Song Xuan's rambling.

He said all this because he wanted to pass the provincial exam on his own, without needing any "help" from me.

It seems that his son said something in front of him that caused the misunderstanding.

Wang Qinruo squinted and glanced at Song Xuan:

"I don't know when my illness will take my life. You've cured my son's illness to almost full strength. If you still want to ask for something in return, time is running out."

"Hahaha."

Upon hearing this, Song Xuan burst into laughter.

Even Wang Qinruo, a cunning old fox who had been navigating the world for decades, was somewhat bewildered by the laughter.

He believed that even if Song Xuan was not politically astute, he would understand such straightforward words.

"When people leave, the tea grows cold."

That wasn't just empty talk.

In addition, Wang Qinruo himself has a rather bad reputation.

Even if he wanted his tea to cool down a little slower, he might not be able to promote his old subordinates; he could only try his best to make arrangements for them.

Wang Qinruo used to think it didn't matter, since his son wouldn't need it anyway.

However, after Wang Congyi took Song Xuan's special medicine, his health gradually improved.

Wang Qinruo, who didn't care much about his family's affairs after death, also began to vigorously promote his own people.

I just want my "cup of tea" to heat up a little slower.

Even Wang Congyi didn't understand what was so funny about Song Xuan.

"Prime Minister Wang, please don't underestimate me!"

Hearing Song Xuan's reply, Wang Qinruo was surprised for a moment before she couldn't help but chuckle.

really.

Following Yan Shu, I learned the quality of being aloof.

Perhaps he, like Yan Shu, was arrogant and conceited, wanting to rely on his own true abilities without needing the help of others.

"Song Twelve, you need to think this through. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Wang Qinruo didn't say anything more. In any case, Song Xuan had already been given the opportunity, but he had voluntarily given it up.

"Of course."

Song Xuan stood up and bowed again:
"Besides, I'm not treating Brother Wang for the purpose of cheating in the imperial examinations."

Wang Congyi had only gone to Song Xuan's door to ask for help after he found out that Song Xuan had rescued Gu Zimo.

He sent money, people, and various supplies to Song Xuan, which is how this special medicine came about.

Although it didn't have much effect at first, over time, Wang Congyi felt that his symptoms had lessened considerably, which made him overjoyed.

From then on, he had unwavering faith in Song Xuan's miracle cure.

He said he genuinely wanted to help Song Xuan achieve better results in the imperial examinations more easily.

However, Song Xuan kept refusing.

However, Wang Qinruo understood that Song Xuan's refusal stemmed not only from arrogance but also from a desire to avoid becoming deeply tied to the Wang family.

Wang Qinruo glanced at his own son. He was content to live a long life free from illness, and as for officialdom, he was truly not suited for it.

Now that Song Xuan, this "shallow fish," is unwilling to receive help, he will not take care of the Wang family once he crosses the dragon gate.

It is clear that neither side has any intention of engaging in in-depth cooperation.

"If you need any help in the future, just come to the Prime Minister's residence and tell me."

Wang Qinruo also did not want to tarnish Song Xuan's reputation in the imperial examinations.

"Thank you, Prime Minister Wang."

Song Xuan took his leave, and Wang Congyi went out to see him off, then came back.

"Father, what did you mean by what you just said?"

"What do you mean?"

Wang Qinruo was puzzled by his son's thoughtlessness and wondered how his son could speak like that.
How can one become prime minister without some political acumen while navigating the imperial court?

"It doesn't mean anything, it's just what I wanted to tell Song Xuan."

Despite his father's outburst, Wang Congyi still didn't understand what his father meant.

"I can only say that this child is destined for greatness."

Wang Qinruo pointed to his eyes: "I have never misjudged anyone in my entire life."

"what?"

Wang Congyi felt that he had always believed Song Xuan was capable, and that it would be no difficult thing for him to go down in history.

Is my elderly father going mad from illness? He's started boasting.

Wang Congyi even considered calling Song Xuan back to examine his father's pulse again to ensure that his condition had not worsened.

After leaving the Prime Minister's residence, Song Xuan scoffed at Wang Qinruo's actions.

what dog stuff?

Is this how you repay your benefactor?
They want to smear my resume.

In order to achieve the goal of being on the same side as their family?

Wang Qinruo himself didn't have much power; he was suppressed by people like Kou Zhun and Ding Wei.

He only took over after the two who fought the dragon and tiger were gone.

In such a short time, coupled with the fact that both the Empress Dowager and the Emperor had their own "supporters," Wang Qinruo was powerless to place his own people in positions of power.

“I, Song Twelve, am not ignorant and incompetent. All the effort I have put into the imperial examinations over the years has not been wasted in the slightest.”

"Do you need to act all high and mighty here?"

"The court has reformed in a way that benefits me. I'd be crazy to ask you for the questions in advance."

At least in terms of writing policy essays, Song Xuan did not think he was bad at it.

After returning home, Song Xuan took a shower and then noticed several letters on the table.

One was given by Cao Liyong, one by Qian Weiyan, and another by Su Xun.

Song Xuan immediately opened Su Xun's letter.

He had already returned to his hometown and received a letter from Song Xuan.

On his way home, Su Xun overheard people discussing his twelfth brother's Mid-Autumn Festival poems, which made him feel honored as well.

Moreover, Su Xun knew that Song Xuan's poem was a tribute to him, which made him even more excited.

After returning home, he covered the entire room with this poem.

Su Xun was somewhat troubled. He had seen so many famous mountains and rivers along the way, but he was still not satisfied with the poems he wrote.

It wasn't that he wanted Song Xuan to correct his work.

Because after passing through Song Xuan's hands, the poem was no longer what he had imagined.

In the letter, Su Xun asked Song Xuan how to compose a better poem.

I hope Brother Twelve can enlighten me.

Song Xuan simply unfolded the letter, and the first sentence read: "Having thoroughly read the Three Hundred Tang Poems, even if you can't compose poetry, you can still recite it."

In short, this requires a lot of reading; only then will inspiration come.

I won't write those crooked poems that are all about jumping around.

Song Xuan knew Su Xun's playboy nature, which remained unchanged even after marriage.

He needed to get older before he understood the importance of studying.

In this regard, no amount of persuasion from anyone could change Su Xun's mind.

Song Xuan didn't try to persuade him, but instead answered his questions and suggested he read more Tang poems.

When you, Su Xun, see magnificent mountains and rivers again, you won't say things like "Hey, what a joke!" or "Hey, what a joke!"

Song Xuan set Su Xun's reply aside and waited for the ink to dry.

He then tore open Cao Liyong's letter.

Cao Liyong wanted to tell Song Xuan that the imperial examination system was going to be reformed, and hoped that Song Xuan would not be discouraged.

Even if the weight given to poetry and prose has decreased, you still can't afford to falter at crucial moments.

In short, study hard and try to get the provincial top score.

I've already rented a house for you in Tokyo. When you come to Tokyo for the exam, you can just move in.

To avoid ending up with nothing to take and then refusing to come to his house to save face, only to end up sleeping on the streets.

Song Xuan smiled but didn't say anything more.

Even though holidays in Tokyo are expensive, for someone of Cao Yongli's level, renting a house for a few months without anyone living there is not much of a burden.

Cao Liyong not only mentioned this matter, but also the war with the Liao Kingdom, and that the army had already set off.

He will send people to closely monitor their successes and failures.

After all, he was under tremendous pressure to share his unique perspective with them.

Regardless, Cao's "prediction" will fail.

From then on, Cao Cao would have even less opportunity to participate in central government deliberations.

Whether it's the Empress Dowager, the Emperor, or even the other ministers, kicking Cao Liyong out of the central government wouldn't be too much of a challenge.

Military officers simply did not hold a high position in the Song Dynasty's court system.

Even a powerful figure like Di Qing in his later years was destined to be impeached.

In response to Cao Liyong's concerns, Song Xuan quickly wrote back to him.

I eat Liuliumei whenever I have free time.

As for whether Cao could understand, Song Xuan didn't bother to say anything.

He was a famous general of the Song Dynasty, who fought in the north and south, yet in his old age he became so timid and cowardly.

It seems that he has been "tortured" by those few scholars in the imperial court to the point that he has lost all confidence.

Song Xuan didn't know how to comfort him.

Finally, I added a few more words to him to reassure him.

By this time, the ink in Su Xun's reply had dried, so Song Xuan stuffed it back in to prevent any mistakes in sending the letter.

The last letter was from Qian Weiyan. Song Xuan didn't understand what he had to write to.
With these questions in mind, Song Xuan opened the package and examined it carefully.

Qian Weiyan then exchanged pleasantries, expressing his admiration for Song Xuan and his willingness to form a close friendship with him despite their age difference.

He hopes to write more letters in the future to strengthen communication.

Song Xuan was completely bewildered upon hearing this.

What kind of damn friendship is this, transcending age?

Don't you see I'm busy preparing for the college entrance exam? I don't have time to finish writing this letter to you.

In addition to writing letters, Qian Weiyan also wrote several poems in the Xikun style, asking Song Xuan to appreciate them.

It would be best if I could also write a few poems in response to his.

After all, this is how exchanges between literati in the Song Dynasty were conducted!
Song Xuan threw the letter down, a gesture that reminded him of the outrageous actions of some fanatical worshippers.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to escape back from Luoyang so quickly!

Song Xuan thought for a moment, then called Xiao Zhihong over:
"Just write a poem in the Xikun style and then reply to him."

After reading Qian Weiyan's letter, Xiao Zhihong said in disbelief:
"Young Master, is it appropriate for me to write him a reply?"

"What's wrong with it? He doesn't know it's you anyway."

"Hey."

Xiao Zhihong quickly agreed, since it was the young master's instruction anyway.

Song Xuan then pasted the remaining two letters and asked him to pass them on to Tao Hong so that he could mail them out the next day.

After finishing all this, Song Xuan lay on the bed, pondering how to train his writing skills.

(End of this chapter)