A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 248 Truly a divine archer!

Cao Li was naturally fierce and brave.

Song Xuan was both literate and martial, and was equally brave by nature, almost making up for all the shortcomings in Cao Liyong's life.

Therefore, Cao Liyong grew to like Song Xuan more and more after getting to know him.

She absolutely had to marry her daughter to him.

Moreover, Cao Yongli was very worried that Song Xuan would be chosen as a son-in-law by the list of successful candidates.

Cao Yong felt that even if he died, he would not be able to rest in peace after such a good son-in-law had been captured by others.

Most importantly, he watched Song Xuan grow up step by step.

This feeling is unparalleled by anyone else.

Cao Liyong was certain that Song Xuan's appointment as prime minister was just around the corner.

So he didn't even tell his own family about this secret.

To prevent those brainless sons from boasting about it when they're on duty in the palace.

Then, there will be other competitors for no reason.

Because in every year, those who were on the list of successful candidates in the imperial examinations, if they were not married, would inevitably be snatched up by a group of high-ranking officials.

Only in this way can the family have a continuous source of benefits, and not just hold official positions only in their own generation.

In particular, Cao Yong knew that compared with other prime ministers, he had no advantage whatsoever in taking Song Xuan as his son-in-law.

Perhaps in the future, his identity as a military man will cause trouble for Song Xuan in the imperial court.

However, Cao Yong really didn't want to give up on Song Xuan as his son-in-law.

Cao's only advantage was that he did not consider his status and associated with Song Xuan, who was a commoner.

At that time, Song Xuan had not yet passed the provincial examination with top honors, nor had he achieved any fame in the three capitals.

The other chancellors in the court had all heard of Song Xuan's name, but out of respect for their status, they had never had any interaction with him.

Cao Liyong felt that this was his advantage.

He believed that Song Xuan was also not the kind of person who liked formalities.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have done such a thing in Songcheng.

An ordinary meal ended amidst one person's ecstasy and the incomprehension of the others.

Cao Yong had seven sons, including his illegitimate sons, but only one daughter.

The brothers naturally doted on this "sister".

"Don't worry, Yaoyao. When that Twelfth Brother comes tomorrow, I'll definitely teach him a lesson."

His sons are currently only serving in the inner palace guards and have not been sent to the army for training. Only Cao Rui, Cao Yongli's nephew, is serving as an official outside the palace.

Hearing her elder brother Cao Yuan's words, Cao Qingyao put her hands on her hips, quite angrily:
“Big brother is all talk. Just now at the dinner table, once Father spoke, you didn’t dare to say anything.”

"No, sister, brother also farted."

The youngest of the seven brothers, Cao Xu, immediately encouraged them:
"None of you heard that."

"Hey."

Cao Yuan made a move as if to hit him.

Cao Qingyao was even angrier when she saw her brothers laughing and joking around, showing no concern for her whatsoever.

"Yaoyao, don't resist so much. Maybe the husband your father has found for you will be handsome and refined."

"Nonsense, Father's taste is really not that great."

"Exactly! What if he looks like a bear? Dad likes warriors like that, saying they're strong and powerful!"

"Impossible. He must look like a skinny monkey. He's a scholar who came to Tokyo to take the provincial examination."

“I think Father is delusional; a scholar marrying our sister is just wishful thinking.”

Several brothers glanced at him sideways.

But let’s be honest.

Scholars rarely choose families of military generals.

Especially for military families like theirs, which didn't even exist since the founding of the Song Dynasty.

They are the ones who have been wealthy for generations.

Despite being the top military figure in the Song Dynasty, Cao Liyong is still far behind in terms of both his family's foundation and his descendants' official positions.

However, Cao Yong married Cao Cong, the son of Cao Bin, a founding general of the Song Dynasty, and Cao Yuan married a daughter of the old Cao family. This is the normal marriage alliance between military men.

"If Father chooses a good husband for my sister, it's better than her becoming that Cheng guy's second wife!"

Cao Xu, the seventh brother, was outspoken and had heard some rumors.

After all, her older sister was tall and had a rather large bust.

The man surnamed Cheng is the son of the prime minister and a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations). He is now serving as an imperial censor, and his future is limitless.

He was a bit of a jinx to his wives; two of his wives died before he was even thirty.

Some people said that Cao's daughter, the offspring of a military general, had a strong destiny and might bring him good fortune.

That's it.

Cheng Kan is still considering it.

But Cao Yong was just waiting for the matchmaker to come so he could throw her out!
Is my daughter someone anyone can covet?
Little did they know that I had already made all the arrangements.

I, Lao Cao, have been holding back all this time just so I can set off a big firecracker.

Cao Qingyao knew that she couldn't make her own decisions about her marriage, but she still found it hard to accept becoming someone's mother as soon as she entered the family.

But he was, after all, a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations).

They also come from a powerful family!

Their ancestors were from the Sima Yi lineage, and some of them were emperors.

"Do you think the Twelfth Brother that Father is talking about might be Song Twelfth, the one who wrote the poem 'Prelude to Water Melody'?"

"How can it be!"

"Yes, don't even think about it. Do you think your father would know the famous Song Twelve!"

"There were two people."

As the group chattered amongst themselves, Cao Qingyao felt increasingly uneasy.

Why did the father only have one daughter?
Cao Qingyao sighed inwardly, wishing it were really Song Twelve.

I really like that copy of The Story of the Stone.

Unfortunately, her marriage was entirely decided by her father.

Cao Liyong knew very well that when on duty in the palace, one had to be very careful about what one said.

Therefore, he spoke very little to his sons, only telling them not to wear earrings in the palace, but to wear eyerings when necessary and not to wear them when not necessary.

Only in this way can the Cao family's wealthy life be preserved, and they avoid a catastrophic downfall.

However, it is foreseeable that Cao Liyong's sons will not be able to be appointed as officials unless they receive a special favor.

Otherwise, the imperial court would never have given him this opportunity, lest the father and son collude from within and without to carry out a rebellion.

Zhao Da knew perfectly well how he had come to the throne.

Therefore, he wanted to tear apart all the umbrellas of those who came after him, so that they would not have the opportunity to follow suit.

“Hey, I have an idea. Why don’t you pretend to be sick tomorrow, sister, and scare that Twelfth Master into breaking off the engagement?”

"This is good, this is good."

Cao Xu immediately crossed his arms, looking very smug.

"Alright, stop teasing your little sister. Dad isn't stupid."

Upon hearing this, the siblings were disheartened again.

Cao Yuan sat in the chair, straightening his posture slightly:
"Actually, I have a plan."

"Oh, you have a plan too?"

Cao Xu and the others all looked at their eldest brother.

"Of course!"

Cao Yuan chuckled:
"I suspect that this Twelfth Brother is a sycophant who curries favor with the powerful. My sister is setting a trap to expose his ugly side. When he loses face, how will he have the face to propose marriage again?"

Cao Qingyao first lowered her head in thought, then raised a finger and smiled:
"Brother is right. I want to see what this Twelfth Brother is all about and teach him a lesson. Is he someone who can just covet a daughter of a military family?"

"Hahaha, that's right, that's right, let him shoot arrows."

“He is a weak scholar, he certainly cannot draw the bowstring.”

"That's a good idea. Let him compose a poem first, and then we can say that his twelfth son is not as good as Song Twelfth son."

"That's a great idea! He'll definitely lose face and just spout some archaic nonsense."

"Let's complete one more level, then we'll go through three levels."

"Keep it from Dad for now, I'll wait for him at the gate tomorrow."

Cao Yong had no idea what his children were discussing, but he was sorting out some trivial matters in the court. He planned to talk to Song Xuan about it tomorrow and ask him for advice.

"Husband."

Madam Cao carried the tea into the study, placed it aside, and did not leave.

"Is something wrong?"

"Are you really going to marry Qingyao off to that Twelfth Prince?"

“Indeed, if I were to let such a fine son-in-law go, I would die with my eyes open in disgrace.”

Madam Cao was still somewhat shocked to hear her husband say such a thing.

Because in the entire Song Dynasty, there were very few people who could catch the eye of her husband.

After all these years, the couple still have a tacit understanding.

"You haven't told me about this Twelfth Brother yet," said Madam Cao, sitting to the side.
"Qingyao is also my daughter, so I, as her mother, should at least know a little about her."

"When tomorrow comes, you will see him."

Cao Li maintained his air of mystery, intending to elicit a look of astonishment from his wife upon seeing Song Xuan.

No matter how much you praise yourself, it doesn't matter.

Why not let her see it with her own eyes?

Seeing her husband's expression, Lady Cao calmed down.

Anyway, one more night won't make a difference.

Day two.

Song Xuan finally woke up in his warm bed.

After he was helped to wash and groom himself, food was already prepared in Tokyo.

Based on the salaries of Cao Liyong's various official positions, plus the land he was entitled to, he was quite wealthy.

Song Xuan had never easily tried this kind of decadent lifestyle at home.

He never expected that he would adapt so quickly.

Previously, Song Xuan found it hard to understand why the Song and Liao dynasties were corrupting together, but now he has a better understanding.

In particular, the Liao Dynasty could acquire enough wealth for corruption without having to fight or risk their lives.

The Song Dynasty could also earn back several times the annual tribute through the trade.

Who hasn't fought a lifetime of wars and can't enjoy themselves?

After finishing his meal, Song Xuan strolled around the courtyard and then asked Wang Gui to prepare medicine for the horse.

"Twelfth Brother, after our horse recovers in a few days, I'd like to go back to Uncle's house."

"no problem."

Song Xuan understood, of course, that he wanted to ride back on horseback and make a grand entrance in fine clothes.

"You should go do your own thing. I have Wang protecting me, and Xu Xianchun protecting Tao Hong."

"it is good."

Wang Gui excitedly took the medicine packet to the kitchen to prepare the medicine.

The old servant noticed that Song Xuan wasn't in a hurry to visit his master at all.

He strolled around here to digest his food, and then slowly practiced his boxing there.

After breaking out in a light sweat, Song Xuan watched as the horse drank its medicine and then wandered around for a long time before finally asking:
"Will Minister Cao attend court today?"

"So that the young master may know, the master has taken leave today and is waiting for him at home!"

"Forehead."

Song Xuan glanced at the old servant and laughed twice:

"I thought he had gone to court, so I was just trying to kill time."

"My master instructed me that the young master can go whenever he wants, and cannot be rushed, so I did not tell him!"

"Okay, I'll wash my face now."

Song Xuan responded, then went back to wash his face and called Wang Bao to accompany him, with the old servant leading the way.

Cao Yuan, the eldest son of the Cao family's gatekeeper, also claimed to be ill.

For the sake of his sister's future happiness, he naturally had to personally oversee the process.

Cao Yuan had assumed that the so-called Twelfth Prince would arrive early.

As the sun rose high in the sky, they still hadn't arrived.

As expected, there was no sincerity at all.

This doesn't seem like the behavior of someone who curries favor with the powerful.

If that Twelfth Brother is truly like that, he will surely arrive sooner.

Cao Yuan was puzzled, secretly wondering if it was his own father who had taken the initiative.
That makes sense, though; how could a scholar marry a warrior?
It's normal that everyone here is from the martial arts circle.

"My name is Cheng Kan. I heard that Attendant Cao is ill, so I came here to visit him."

Upon hearing the gatekeeper's announcement, Cao Yuan came out of the gatehouse.

I looked Cheng Kan up and down. He was alright looking, not bad-looking at all.

"Cheng Kan?"

Cao Yuan crossed his arms and introduced himself briefly. Seeing that the man was carrying gifts, he then asked him to wait a moment.

Cheng Kan didn't quite understand, so he took the initiative to ask what was going on.

"I know what you're here for."

"Ok?"

Cao Yuan suddenly had a flash of inspiration, pulled him aside, and told him some things.

Today, someone else came to the manor to propose marriage. However, due to the friendship between our fathers, my sister does not want to marry him. When the time comes, you must outdo him in the three tests.

Cheng Kan truly hadn't expected that Cao Shizhong's illness would be due to such a thing.

He hesitated for a moment before speaking:

Is this appropriate?

"If you want to marry my sister, how can I entrust her to you if you can't even handle this simple matter?"

Cao Yuan then chuckled:
"If you don't have the guts, then leave. I'm a daughter of a powerful family, and I won't marry just anyone. Today is a good day to get rid of two unsuitable people!"

Provoked by Cao Yuan's words, Cheng Kan immediately became somewhat agitated:
"Okay, it's not a difficult thing anyway."

Cheng Kan was a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations) who passed the first-class examination.

Regardless of their rank, they are all capable, so why should they fear a mere candidate who has come to the capital for the imperial examinations?

As for Li Zhaoshu, who brought Cheng Kan with him, he was somewhat puzzled for a moment.

He is the grandson of Chancellor Li Fang, and was recommended by Cao Yong. He is now serving as the Prefectural Judge of Kaifeng.

Li Zhaoshu had not expected that someone would come to "propose marriage" today.

Isn't that a coincidence?
According to the original plan, Cao Liyong's daughter would have married Cheng Kan.

Cheng Kan was promoted to vice prime minister at the end of Emperor Renzong's reign, but he was related to the prime minister Wen Yanbo by marriage. In order to avoid suspicion, he was appointed as vice privy councilor. However, due to political differences with privy councilor Song Xiang, they were both dismissed from their posts and sent to other places.

When Emperor Yingzong ascended the throne, he was given an important position and was granted the title of Duke.

The old servant led the way, passing through three streets before arriving at Cao Liyong's residence.

Song Xuan looked up and saw an imperial plaque hanging above the door, flanked by stone lion-shaped carvings and glass palace lanterns.

The gate was wide open, with imperial guards standing on both sides, their ceremonial swords at their waists.

Inside the door is a single piece of white jade screen wall with a relief of clouds and dragons.

The longan is inlaid with black jade, and when you pass by, you always feel like the longan is looking at you.

This was truly the first time Song Xuan had ever been to the home of such a high-ranking official.

He had just stepped through the gate when he was stopped, even though an old servant was leading him.

Cao Yuan first sized up the newcomer and found that he was taller than himself.

Moreover, in terms of looks, he glanced at Cheng Kan beside him; this handsome man was probably no match for the one in front of him.

"Who are you?"

"My name is Song Xuan, and I have come to pay my respects to Minister Cao."

Song Xuan politely bowed and introduced himself while seated.

"Song Xuan?"

Cao Yuan raised an eyebrow slightly; his appearance and height were acceptable.

If you're shorter than your younger sister, your sister might never be able to straighten her back for the rest of her life.

Cao Yuan pointed to Cheng Kan standing to the side and said:
“He is in the same profession as you, and you both want to marry my sister. Therefore, my sister has set up three hurdles. She will only agree to meet the person who passes through them first.”

Song Xuan: ???
Cheng Kan had only recently returned from serving as the prefect of Guizhou and was not very familiar with Song Xuan's name.

"Who arranged this?"

The old servant understood how much the master valued Song Twelve, and was immediately quite dissatisfied with the young master's rash actions.

"Uncle, don't ask."

Cao Yuan also showed great respect to the old servant.

"Please wait a moment, Twelfth Brother, I will go and inform the master."

"No need, this is quite interesting."

Song Xuan sized up his "competitor," who looked to be about ten years older than him.

"My name is Cheng Kan. I passed the imperial examination in the third year of the Tianxi era and have just returned to the capital to serve as a censor."

"My name is Song Xuan. I passed the imperial examination in the fifth year of the Tiansheng era and have just come to the capital to take the exam. I was the top scorer in the provincial examination in Yingtian Prefecture."

Both Cao Yuan and Cheng Kan were somewhat bewildered.

He didn't even take the provincial examination in the fifth year of the Tiansheng era.

Not to mention the announcement of the results after the imperial examination.

How did you become a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations)?

Even if you are the top scholar in Yingtian Prefecture, you don't need to be so arrogant, do you?
"So confident?" Cheng Kan found it somewhat amusing.

"Would someone who lacks confidence dare to enter Cao Shizhong's official residence?"

"what."

Cao Yuan was quite pleased with Song Xuan's words.

At least in terms of appearance, he felt that Song Xuan had passed the test!

Li Zhaoshu stared at Song Xuan.

Could he be Song Twelve, the one who shook the three capitals?
How could Song Twelve come to ask for the hand of Cao Shizhong's daughter? Is there some misunderstanding involved?
After all, Li Zhaoshu believed that with Song Xuan's reputation, he would surely become the prime minister's son-in-law.

People like Lü Yijian also had daughters of marriageable age, and more than one of them.

Ultimately, this was due to Cao Liyong's family background. Since Li Zhaoshu didn't know the details of the matter, he didn't ask any further questions.

If he really is Song Twelve, then let's see what he's capable of!
The youngest, Cao Xu, loves to join in the fun and ran over:
"My sister said that if you want to marry a woman from the Cao family, you must first compose a poem. The two of you should use 'The Ugly Woman' as the theme, and the time it takes for an incense stick to burn is up."

After Cao Xu finished speaking, he looked the two people over.

Although he was handsome, wrinkles were showing around his eyes and brows.

The other one was truly tall and imposing; even though his sister was tall, she didn't look good standing next to him.

"A face as handsome as jade, truly exists!"

After all, it was the first time everyone had met.

Appearance is naturally the first stepping stone.

Sometimes, people do appreciate the "modeling" aspect.

Cao Xu immediately felt that his father had a good eye for talent.

At least these two "son-in-law" candidates, despite their age difference, are both presentable!
Cao Xu had only seen the phrase "face like jade" in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, but it was the perfect description for the person in front of him.

"The writing brush, ink, paper, and inkstone are all prepared right next to me."

Cao Xu did not forget his mission and had his servant lead them forward.

The passageway of the Cao Mansion is decorated with fragments of Lantian jade arranged to resemble intertwined peony branches.

It doesn't accumulate water on rainy days, and reflects light like a starry river on sunny days.

There is also a flowing water corridor on the side, which cost a lot to build.

There are even large Cizhou ware vats with red carp in them, and the character "Cao" branded on one side.

Upon entering the main hall, a South China Sea coral tree, reaching shoulder height, was placed inside a Ding kiln white-glazed vase.

A genuine work by Li Cheng, "Winter Forest," hangs on the wall.

Song Xuan found it somewhat interesting; the Cao residence truly deserved the title of luxurious.

At this moment, Cao Qingyao stood among her brothers watching the commotion.

Upon receiving the old servant's report, Cao Yong did not stop him. Instead, he asked his wife to come with him to watch the excitement.

This is a perfect opportunity to let them all see what Twelve Lang is capable of!
Let them re-evaluate their own perspective as the people in charge.

How wonderful!
Song Xuan noticed that the writing brush, ink, paper, and inkstone were all prepared, and even the ink had been ground in advance. They had all come prepared!
Cao Liyong laughed very enthusiastically:
"Hahaha, Twelfth Brother, let them see your skills, so they won't be unconvinced."

Song Xuan bowed slightly and obediently picked up the pen.

Cao, in a businesslike manner, addressed Cheng Kan:

"Don't embarrass the Imperial Censor."

Cheng Kan also picked up his pen and held his breath.

Li Zhaoshu could clearly discern the difference between close and distant relationships from Cao Liyong's words.

However, he was certain that today's events were entirely a coincidence.

His visit with Cheng Kan was a last-minute decision.

So, today's test was all prepared for Song Twelve?

The young man before me must be the famous Song Twelve from the Three Capitals!

Li Zhaoshu looked at Song Xuan, then at Cao Liyong, and really couldn't imagine how the two of them got together.

Following Song Xuan's approach, no matter how he chooses a wife, he won't be able to choose someone from the Cao family!

Song Xuan wrote down the three characters "Wu Yan Nu" (meaning "ugly woman") as the title.

Wu Yan was a famous ugly woman in the ancient state of Qi.

He guessed that Cao's daughter was subtly mocking him for being a toad trying to eat swan meat.

Cao Qingyao had no desire to marry any Twelfth Prince, nor did she want to become a second wife; she never expected that they would both end up together today.

She didn't care at all about the two of them being made things difficult for her.

Anyway, it's not me who will be embarrassed!

If they can't even solve this small problem, the Cao family will have an explanation to give to the outside world.

"If you feel that I am making things difficult for you, you don't have to write it."

Cao Qing glared at the two people, feeling an overwhelming sense of irritation.

Cheng Kan bowed very politely: "Since you're here, I'll certainly write something."

Song Xuan first carefully examined the person in front of him. This woman must be Cao Liyong's only daughter.

If nothing unexpected happens, then he will be your bedmate.

Cao Qingyao was even more furious at Song Xuan's scrutiny of her body.

She knew, of course, that her figure was not favored by those scholars.

But I will never stoop to flattering you!
"start."

Cao Xu lit an incense stick as a timer.

Song Xuan picked up his brush, dipped it in ink, and wrote:

"Do not say that Wu Yan's beauty is inferior; the Qi palace once paid homage to this virtuous beauty."

"If you use cosmetics to smudge your natural color, you'll be no match for your neighbor's foolish imitation."

While Cheng Kan was still pondering, Song Xuan put down his pen.

"what?"

Cao Yuan felt that his father hadn't said anything ridiculous to the two of them, so he thought his idea was pretty good.

But before he could say anything more, he saw Song Xuan put down his brush, and thus exclaimed in surprise:
"Are you giving up now?"

With just one sentence, everyone turned to look.

Cao Yuan thought Song Xuan was decent-looking, and he was also the top scholar in the provincial examination of Yingtian Prefecture.

His boastful words just moments before made Cao Yuan think Song Xuan was alright, so he went over and picked up his papers.

"You've finished writing?"

Cao Yuan looked at his sister with disbelief.

Because she came up with the question herself.

There is absolutely no possibility of the exam questions being leaked!

Cheng Kan was still pondering when he looked at his younger brother with a surprised expression.

Cao Xu looked at the tinderbox he had just extinguished and covered, then at the incense stick that had just been lit and was emitting blue smoke.

"show me."

Cao Qingyao wanted to see what kind of good poems this young man could write.

Cao Li put his hands behind his back and looked at his wife with a smug expression.

Look at the son-in-law we chose! What does it mean to write eloquently?
Cao Qingyao took the paper from her brother. Besides practicing martial arts, she also studied on weekdays.

She carefully examined Song Xuan's poems and secretly translated them:

"Although Wu Yan was ugly, she was virtuous and capable, a hundred times better than those who imitated her with makeup."

Cao Qingyao felt somewhat embarrassed and annoyed after reading it.

Because she usually hates being praised for her virtue rather than her beauty.

Which young woman doesn't want to be the most beautiful?
"I'll see, I'll see."

The Cao family's sons noisily crowded around.

"Do you understand?" Cao Yuan quickly took it and handed it to Cao Liyong: "Let your father take a look."

"No need." Cao Liyong pushed his hand away.
“I don’t know much about poetry, but Zhongzu is here, let him take a look.”

Although Li Zhaoshu is the grandson of the prime minister, he entered officialdom relatively late. He is now over sixty years old, older than Cao Liyong.

Without Cao Liyong's recommendation, he wouldn't have become the judge of Kaifeng Prefecture!

After Cao Yongli fell from power, he was also implicated and demoted to serve as an official in another region.

However, he remained active in the Song Dynasty officialdom without retiring, and lived to the age of ninety-nine, where he suddenly died of a sudden illness while in office.

Li Zhaoshu took the paper written by Song Xuan, quickly read it through, and then exclaimed in admiration:
"Shierlang wrote well, what were you thinking?"

"In response to your question, sir, I had the idea to leave as soon as I walked from the door to the front hall."

Song Xuan stood with his hands behind his back: "This question isn't difficult at all."

"hiss."

Li Zhaoshu became increasingly certain that he was none other than Song Twelve, who was famous throughout the three capitals.

Who else has such talent?

Upon hearing this, Cao Liyong laughed heartily twice:

"Although it can't compare to Cao Zhi's ability to compose a poem in seven steps, it's still only about a hundred steps away."

Li Zhaoshu nodded slightly. It was only about a hundred steps from the doorway to the front hall.

However, to come up with a poem in a hundred steps is something that is far beyond the reach of ordinary people.

Cheng Kan put down his pen and bowed, saying, "I have lost."

Cao Qingyao took the initiative to speak:

"I remember that during the palace examination, anyone who submitted their paper early would be disqualified. I didn't stipulate that whoever wrote the fastest would win."

Cheng Kan thought for a moment, then put down his pen. His mind was in turmoil, and he couldn't think of anything at all.

Li Zhaoshu also secretly shook his head at him.

Cheng Kan was probably unaware of Song Twelve's reputation; there was probably no one in the entire Song Dynasty who could rival him in poetry.

While you're racking your brains to write one poem, someone else has already written three poems that are rare to find in a century, and that's just their average performance!
Don't humiliate yourself with someone like that.

Cheng Kan had been an official for several years and was no longer a novice. He understood Li Zhaoshu's look, which meant that this young man's writing was quite good.

"I give up."

Cheng Kan politely cupped his hands in greeting. He scrutinized Song Xuan again and was surprised to find that this top scholar was quite capable.

However, in today's imperial examinations, poetry and prose have become a thing of the past, and policy essays are the main focus.

Cao Qing glanced at Song Xuan, secretly surprised.

He devised the plan in a hundred steps; it was truly astonishing.

Are all the twelfth-ranked people this amazing?
"it is good."

Cao Yuan immediately ordered his men to set up targets. If two out of three arrows hit the target within thirty paces, the target would be considered successful.

Upon hearing this, Cheng Kan immediately felt there was no problem:
"I'll go first."

He was appointed to an official post outside the capital this year, and he had already gained experience in the military, so thirty steps is nothing to him.

Upon hearing this, Cao Yong couldn't help but smile, as he had thought his daughter had encountered some kind of problem.

Is this the result?

Which of these isn't Song Twelve's forte?

buzzing.

All three arrows hit the target.

Cheng Kan was quite pleased with himself.

"it is good."

Li Zhaoshu immediately applauded.

Cao Yuan and the others looked at Cheng Kan with considerable surprise, never expecting that this Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations) could also shoot arrows.

Song Xuan took the bow, first pulled it back briefly, then slowly released the string.

"It's too soft, not suitable for me."

"What nonsense are you spouting?" Cao Yuan looked at Song Xuan:
"Don't be so arrogant. Can you draw a bow with a stone weight?"

Cao Qingyao looked at the Twelfth Brother in front of her, unable to figure out what he wanted to do.
In short, Cao Qingyao would never dream of having a husband who is both scholarly and martial.

Because those scholars would find it hard to look down on a military family like the Cao family.

Didn't you see Cheng Kan? He lost two wives and thought that girls from military families were destined for good fortune, which is why he wanted to marry one.

Which scholar who passed the imperial examination would marry the daughter of a military man as his principal wife?

"Yuan'er, go and get him a two-stone bow."

Cao Yuan thought he had misheard his father's instructions. After all, he could draw a two-stone bow, but it was difficult to guarantee accuracy.

"Yes."

Cheng Kan and Li Zhaoshu exchanged a glance, truly not expecting Song Xuan to offer a price.

"Don't be reckless. A two-stone bow isn't something everyone can handle."

Cao Qingyao felt that her father was stirring things up, but she didn't want any injuries to occur.

Especially since this Twelfth Brother is a scholar, if anything gets out, it will surely be said that the Cao family is bullying scholars.

Apart from that, there are no other rumors to spread.

Song Xuan ignored the girl and instead took the two-stone bow from Cao Yuan: "May I try it?"

"Try it."

Cao Yuan also wanted to see this arrogant fellow make a fool of himself.

Song Xuan drew his bow, nocked an arrow, and shot it at the target thirty paces away, knocking it down instantly.

"You guessed, didn't you?"

Cao Yuan was skeptical that this scholar could draw a bow with a draw weight of two stones.

"Wang Bao, did you bring three copper coins?"

Wang Bao took out three Tiansheng Yuanbao coins from his sleeve.

"Bring it."

Song Xuan said to Cao Yuan, "It's about a hundred paces from the front hall to the screen wall. Place the target there. Also, do you have the guts to throw three copper coins by hand?"

"What do you want to do?"

Cao Yuan looked doubtful, because he felt that placing the target at about a hundred paces was too "showy".

Do you really think just anyone can shoot an arrow through a willow leaf from a hundred paces?
"You throw these three copper coins. If I shoot an arrow through the hole in each coin and hit the bullseye, then I'll win this round. How about it?"

Upon hearing Song Xuan's words, everyone in the front hall was stunned.

Cao Yuan's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets; he truly felt that this Song Xuan was far too arrogant!

“I think you just want to shoot my brother.” Cao Xu quickly said, “Brother, don’t agree to him.”

"Yes, who knows what his intentions are?"

"If you're afraid, then don't speak."

Song Xuan then gestured for Wang Bao to take the target and walk away.

"Hey."

Cao Yuan immediately went over and snatched the copper coins from Wang Bao's hand:

"I don't believe it anymore!"

"To avoid your people putting on an act, I'll do it myself!"

"Big brother, this is too dangerous." Cao Qingyao didn't want her older brother to take the risk.

Don't listen to his bragging!

Cheng Kan glanced at Song Xuan, then at Cao Yuan heading towards the screen wall, and then at the seemingly unconcerned Attendant-in-Ordinary Cao.

For a moment, I was filled with great surprise and doubt.

What does it mean?
Madam Cao tugged at Cao Yong's sleeve, signaling him to stop her and not gamble with his own son's life.

Cao Yong gently patted his wife's hand, signaling her to calm down.

After the target is set up.

Turning around, Cao Yuan saw Song Xuan standing with his bow in hand, and for a moment felt his steps become somewhat heavy.

It would be a lie to say that I am not afraid.

But the fact that his father didn't stop him can only mean that his father had some confidence in this Song Twelve.

Song Twelve?
Is he really the famous Song Twelve who was known throughout the three capitals?
The thought flashed through Cao Yuan's mind, because he did not think that Song Twelve, who was famous throughout the three capitals, would marry into a military family like the Cao family.

Despite their wealthy lifestyle, military men were considered inferior in official circles.

The longer I live in Tokyo, the more I understand this kind of contempt!
"Are you ready?"

Cao Yuan took a deep breath and casually tossed the three copper coins in his hand upwards.

hum.

Song Xuan drew his bow and nocked an arrow, and with a whoosh, it flew.

The arrow streaked across the sky like a shooting star, carrying away three copper coins and striking the bullseye squarely.

The Cao brothers both opened their mouths wide, staring at the arrow on the target in front of the screen wall.

The onlookers were shocked. Cao Qingyao bit her lip secretly: "This person actually has such methods?"

"Truly a divine archer!"

Li Zhaoshu couldn't help but speak up.

"Ha ha ha ha."

Only then did Cao Liyong burst into laughter:
"Well done, Song Twelve!"

Cheng Kan was dumbfounded. He had thought he was condescending to marry into the Cao family.

Unexpectedly, such a talented young man, skilled in both literature and martial arts, sought to marry the daughter of the Cao family.

What was he thinking?
Cao Yuan turned his head to look at the arrows on the target, and slowly walked over. He clearly saw the three copper coins hanging on the arrows.

“I got it, I really got it!”

The Cao brothers rushed over to see what was going on.

"Damn it, that's a godlike archer!"

"Even hitting a willow leaf from a hundred paces couldn't be better than this, right?"

"Yes, my brother-in-law can draw a two-stone bow and shoot three copper coins from a hundred paces away, hitting the bullseye perfectly. Nobody would believe it if you told them!"

"So the story of shooting the halberd at the gate in Romance of the Three Kingdoms is true!"

Cao Xu chuckled:
"Brothers, the story of the Three Heroes fighting Lü Bu is a fabrication, but I asked the teacher, and the least believable story of shooting the halberd at the gate is true!"

"what?"

"Oh, you've seen it today."

"Yes, yes."

"Song Twelve really didn't write all of that nonsense."

"Song Twelve?" Cao Xu suddenly exclaimed, startled.

"Dad just called him Song Twelve too!"

"Could it be the famous Song Twelve from the Three Capitals?"

Cao Yuan was also somewhat incredulous.

"Big brother, what's his name?"

“Call him Song Xuan.”

"Brother, that famous Song Twelve, who is known throughout the three capitals, is also named Song Xuan!"

Hearing Cao Xu's shouts, the Cao brothers quickly looked towards the young man in the front hall.

"impossible!"

“Song Twelve is a strong contender for this year’s top scholar title. How could he possibly be related to our Cao family by marriage!”

Even if his father was Cao Liyong, he is now the number one military figure in the Song Dynasty.

They were still looked down upon by scholars.

Apart from military men, few scholars were willing to marry into their family.

In the front hall, Cao Li accepted the hard bow handed to him by Song Xuan:

"Twelfth Brother truly reminds me of Chen Yaozi in his youth."

The Chen family produced three top scholars in the imperial examinations.

Chen Yaozi was not only the top scholar in the imperial examination during the reign of Emperor Zhenzong, but also a marksman who could shoot an arrow through a willow leaf from a hundred paces away. He served as an associate with Cao Liyong for many years.

Cao Qingyao stared intently at Song Xuan.

She truly hadn't expected that the husband her own father had chosen for her would be the famous Song Twelve!
It's impossible no matter how you think about it!
Which of the civil officials in Tokyo would be interested in the daughter of a military man?

But the sight of this young man standing before her filled Cao Qingyao with a mixture of shyness and joy.

She had been acquainted with the other girls, and her ears were already full of rumors. She wished she could marry Song Twelve.

I've heard he's a talented writer, good-looking, and has many good qualities.

Now that Song Twelve is about to become her husband, Cao Qingyao was momentarily dazed and didn't know what to say.

"Is he really the renowned Song Twelve, who is famous throughout the three capitals?"

Li Zhaoshu stepped forward and looked at Cao Liyong.

He never expected that such a promising young man would choose to marry into the Cao family.

"Hahaha."

Cao Li patted Song Xuan on the shoulder:

"Replacement guaranteed."

He then handed the hard bow to the old servant and ordered tea to be served.

Cheng Kan was completely stunned until a group of Cao family members shouted and yelled, bringing him back to his senses.

Then he sat down in the chair and looked at Song Xuan across from him.

Cao introduced himself to his family and relatives:

“Song Twelve was from Ningling County, Yingtian Prefecture. He studied at Yingtian Academy. I met him during the Dou Chou case.”

“At that time, he was just a student, but his conduct and the amazing wisdom in his mind made me feel that he was a good match for my daughter, Lao Cao.”

"The marriage was arranged long ago, and the horoscopes were even calculated. We were just waiting for him to go to the capital to take the imperial examination."

“I didn’t want him to be influenced by others before, but who knew that my son-in-law, Cao, was like an awl hidden in his clothes. No matter how he hid, he could still shine and attract attention.”

"Since he's here to visit today, I'll no longer hide the fact that the Cao family has such a fine son-in-law!"

Cao Li finished speaking.

Li Zhaoshu quickly recalled the Dou Chou case, which was at least three years ago.

"How old is Twelve Lang now?"

"nineteen."

"At such a young age, he already possesses such talent, excelling in both literature and martial arts. Passing the imperial examination with flying colors is a piece of cake for him!"

Li Zhaoshu stroked his beard and nodded: "Minister Cao has truly discerning eyes!"

"Hahaha."

Cao Liyong finally couldn't help but feel smug; he had kept it a secret for so long.

The wedding must be finalized today, no matter what.

Even if they consummate their marriage first and then complete the wedding ceremony later, that's fine.

Anyway, since we are military men, it's perfectly normal for those scholars to dislike us, and we won't miss this opportunity.

Li Zhaoshu understood that he had always evaded the issue of arranging a marriage for Cao Yongli's daughter.

So that's where the root of the problem lies.

"Uncle Cao, you flatter me."

Song Xuan readily agreed, saying, "Back then, I greatly admired Uncle Cao for upholding justice and for not protecting one another among officials."

"At that time, I knew that Uncle Cao had a bad reputation among the people and that he was framed by those villains."

"It is because of upright people like Uncle Cao that we ordinary students can focus on our studies, blocking the path of those opportunistic villains who harm the people."

(End of this chapter)