Great Zhou Wensheng

Chapter 245 The Grand Secretary Examination Begins! (3rd 10,000-word Update)

Luoyang was packed with people, the entire city was in an uproar!

The news that Jiang Xingzhou would be aiming for the position of Grand Secretary in the Wenhua Hall spread like wildfire, reaching all ten circuits of the Great Zhou Dynasty and even neighboring countries at an astonishing speed!
That legendary vice minister, who composed a poem to defend the country on the frontier and decided the fate of the world with a single arrow, and was ennobled and appointed prime minister at a young age, is about to knock on the door of the pinnacle of literature today!
This is not only a major event for Jiang Xingzhou personally, but also a literary and cultural event worthy of being recorded in history!

For a time, the entire Great Zhou Dynasty focused its attention on the imperial capital, Luoyang.

Countless scholars and intellectuals, regardless of their location or status, all with a heart set on the path of literature, were filled with excitement and converged on this ancient capital!

The main roads leading to the imperial city were bustling with carriages and people, creating a spectacular scene unseen for many years.

There were refined scholars who had traveled day and night from Jiangnan Road, taking fast boats and then fine horses to arrive.

Most of them were dressed exquisitely, their cuffs seemingly still bearing the scent of ink painting. Along the way, they were still enthusiastically discussing how Jiang Xingzhou's poem "Jiang Cheng Zi: Hunting in Mizhou" perfectly blended the gentle and misty scenery of Jiangnan with the heroic spirit of the northern frontier, praising his broad mind and powerful writing.
There were young scholars who had traveled all the way from the treacherous Shu Road, arriving weary from their journey, their brows bearing the unique elegance of the Shu region and an indomitable spirit.

They longed to witness firsthand how this peer created miracles and to inspire their own moral resolve;
Scholars who had come from afar from Lingnan Road, their clothes still carrying the humid heat unique to the South, their eyes filled with longing and curiosity for the grand literary and cultural events in the Central Plains.
Even more scholars and poets from all over the Great Zhou Dynasty, from the Central Plains to the Guanzhong Plain and even the northern border, flocked to the capital. They spoke with slightly different accents, but without exception, they all carried the same excitement and anticipation, and poured into the imperial city as if on a pilgrimage.

The huge white marble square outside the Wenhua Hall of the Imperial Palace, as well as the wide Imperial Street in front of the palace that connects to the square, were already packed with surging crowds.

The crowd was thronging, shoulder to shoulder, and the noise reached the heavens.

The Luoyang government and the Five Cities Military Command were on high alert, and almost all the elite soldiers they could muster were mobilized. Dressed in gleaming armor and wielding long halberds, they formed several solid human walls to barely maintain order and prevent a riot.

Countless scholars craned their necks, stood on tiptoe, and gazed eagerly at the solemn and sacred, yet now tightly closed, gilded palace doors, as if they could see through the heavy doors to witness the thrilling examination scene inside.

"Look over there! That's Wang Yuanjun, the leading figure in the literary world of Jiangnan and the head of Bailu Academy! Even he has come in person!"

"My goodness! Could that gaunt old man over there be a direct descendant of the Liu family, the Half-Saints? The Liu family has been a family of scholars for generations and rarely participates in worldly gatherings!"

"Not only that! Look at that middle-aged scholar in a plain robe with an extraordinary air about him, he is Mr. Tao, a descendant of the Tao family, a family of half-sages!"

This is a great Confucian scholar who has lived in seclusion for many years and whose knowledge is unfathomable!
He actually came out of retirement for this matter!

"If Lord Jiang succeeds this time, he will be one of the youngest Grand Secretaries in history, right?"

He is truly a role model for us all!

However, among this bustling, excited crowd, there were also some figures with particularly unique and eye-catching qualities.

Their clothing may not be particularly fancy or eye-catching; they are mostly dressed in simple long gowns or traditional deep robes.
But their every move exudes a dignified air refined by time and a subtle spiritual pressure, causing the excited crowd around them to unconsciously make way for them, revealing a sense of awe.

Their gazes were not as fervent as those of ordinary people; instead, they were deeper and calmer, like an ancient well or a deep pool, as if they could see through the noisy appearance and directly perceive the profound essence of the flow of literature and the Way.

These people are the core descendants of various semi-saint families.

They usually live in seclusion, residing in family sanctuaries or quiet places, focusing on cultivation and following in the footsteps of their ancestors, rarely gathering in large numbers in the secular world.

But today, Jiang Xingzhou's attempt to become a Grand Secretary has become a momentous event that affects the literary fortunes of the nation, and has also successfully attracted the attention of these ancient aristocratic families.

Du Zining from the Du family, who is considered a half-saint, and Zhang Xu from the Zhang family, who is considered a half-saint, were prominently listed.

In addition, there were several young men and women whose temperaments were either sharp as a sword, heavy as a mountain, or ethereal as a cloud, seemingly scattered randomly throughout the crowd.

They occasionally exchanged brief glances, each carrying a detached scrutiny and curiosity about the unknown outcome.

"Brother Du, in your opinion, how confident are Lord Jiang in passing the joint examination with five great Confucian scholars today?"

Unable to contain his excitement, Zhang Xu whispered to Du Zining beside him, "I have something to ask you."

Du Zining's expression was solemn, his gaze never leaving the vortex of literary energy above the Wenhua Hall, which was barely perceptible to ordinary people due to the overwhelming attention and literary energy it had gathered. He responded in a deep voice:
"The five great Confucian scholars, all masters of literature and philosophy, jointly conducted the examination. The difficulty level was so high that it was like hell, a rare occurrence since ancient times."

But Brother Jiang... is no ordinary person.

How many miracles has he created along the way?

Since he dared to take the exam at this time, he must have some unfathomable reliance on him.

We need not make wild guesses; let's just wait and see.

Moreover, to be able to experience the imposing presence of a great Confucian scholar and the clash between literature and philosophy at such close range is a once-in-a-millennium opportunity for our cultivation.

The entire square was filled with a fervent atmosphere that blended extreme tension, boundless excitement, and devout anticipation, as if a single spark could ignite it.

Those two tightly closed, gilded palace doors, carved with mysterious patterns, now seemed to form a boundary separating two worlds.

Inside the gate lies a rigorous examination hall that will determine the future and destiny of an unparalleled literary prodigy.

Outside the door, scholars from all over the world held their breath and eagerly awaited the arrival of the newcomers.

"Jiang Daren's attempt to become a Grand Secretary has truly attracted widespread attention and captivated the literary hearts of the entire nation!"

An elderly scholar with white hair stroked his long, snow-white beard, gazing at the magnificent scene before him. Tears welled in his eyes as he was filled with emotion, as if he were witnessing the resurgence of a golden age of literature and scholarship.

royal palace.

Outside the Wenhua Hall, a huge crowd surged, their voices rising like a tidal wave. The fervent anticipation of thousands of scholars almost ignited the chill of autumn.

Amidst this bustling sea of ​​people, a few groups felt their emotions were far more turbulent and passionate than the others.

Their gazes were fixed on the gilded palace door, a symbol of the highest hall of literature and scholarship, as if they could see through the thick wood and glimpse the moment that would determine the fate of their families.

In the best spot near the palace gate's cordon, Xue Lingqi's two younger brothers, Xue Fu and Xue Gui, were standing on tiptoe, oblivious to their image, their young faces flushed red with excitement and nervousness.

As scions of the Xue family, a family of meritorious dukes, they had studied the classics since childhood and were well aware of the weight of the title "Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame" in the imperial court and literary circles.

Overwhelmed with excitement, Xue Fu grabbed his younger brother Xue Gui's strong arm, his fingers turning slightly white from the force, his voice trembling: "Second brother, did you see that!"

What a sight!
All the prominent scholars in Luoyang, no, all the scholars in the world, have come!

They're all here to see my brother-in-law!
If my brother-in-law really becomes a Grand Secretary this time, that would be incredible!

This is absolutely incredible!

With Father as our pillar of strength, our Xue family has a good chance of being promoted to governor. And with Brother-in-law's literary talent shining upon us, we truly... are poised to soar to new heights once more, restoring the glory of our ancestors!

Xue Gui nodded emphatically, his eyes sparkling with undisguised anticipation and pride, as if he could already see that bright and glorious future: "That's for sure!"
Brother, think about it, what kind of status is a Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame?
They are top-level civil officials who can enter the cabinet to participate in state affairs and are expected to become prime ministers in the future, truly holding the reins of the country!
If my brother-in-law can successfully get promoted, and also take on the powerful position of Minister of Revenue... My God, that would be a true core official of the Three Provinces and Six Ministries, a real pillar of the nation!

He became more and more excited as he spoke, lowering his voice but unable to hide his pride:
"My father served as the prefect of Mizhou Prefecture in the northern frontier, guarding the border for the country. He was promoted to governor, which was the pinnacle of military achievements."
My brother-in-law is a strategist in the court and is about to rise to the highest position in the civil service.

One is skilled in literature, the other in martial arts; they complement each other perfectly!

Our Xue family, a lineage of dukes and nobles for generations, has finally lived up to my father's years of perseverance. We have truly seized the opportunity for revival and are poised for a resurgence!

The two brothers exchanged a smile, as if they could already see the Xue family mansion bustling with activity, filled with guests, and enjoying boundless glory once again.

That was not only a return of power, but also a complete reshaping of the Xue family's glory.

Xue Fu has even begun to envision more practical benefits.

He nudged Xue Gui, a hint of smugness in his eyes:
"Next time we take the imperial examination, even if my brother-in-law doesn't say a word to avoid suspicion."

When the examiner saw the two of us brothers while grading the papers, wouldn't he have to think twice?
The character 'Xue' will carry a very different weight in Luoyang from now on!

Passing the imperial examination for the title of Juren (a successful candidate in the provincial-level imperial examination) is a natural progression, isn't it?

Despite knowing that such thoughts were somewhat improper, the immense joy and anticipation still made the two young brothers' minds wander.
The future of the Xue family is inextricably linked to the success or failure of her brother-in-law Jiang Xingzhou's position as a Grand Secretary, and everyone eagerly awaits that exciting moment.

Not far from the Xue brothers, in another location where the crowd was relatively sparse.

A group of young officials dressed in different shades of blue robes were gathered together, talking in hushed tones.

They were none other than the scholars who passed the imperial examinations in the same year as Jiang Xingzhou, and who had shared the glory of the Qionglin Banquet and the inscription on the Wild Goose Pagoda—Han Yugui, Lu Ming, Cao An, and others.

At this moment, gazing at the majestic and solemn Wenhua Hall in the distance, their feelings were far more complex than those of the simple admirers around them.

There was a mix of excitement at sharing in the glory, reflection on one's own career path, and a sigh at the vastly different fates of classmates.

Han Yugui's official robe was slightly darker in color, indicating that his official rank was slightly higher.

He gazed at the tightly closed palace door, his voice low and tinged with a barely perceptible sigh:

"Brother Jiang... no, now I should address you as Lord Jiang."

If he can successfully pass the joint examination of these five great Confucian scholars and be promoted to Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame, then the last and most crucial obstacle will be completely eliminated.

His Majesty can then appoint him as Minister of Revenue without any hindrance and with due legitimacy, truly putting him in charge of the nation's finances and taxes. His power is so great that he can be considered the lifeblood of the country.

At that time, he would no longer be merely a favored minister in the emperor's heart, but a true powerhouse in the court. Although he was currently only the Minister of Revenue, he was already powerful enough to rival veteran officials such as the Chancellor and the Grand Secretary.

Lu Ming chimed in, his tone a mixture of genuine envy and a hint of realistic relief:

"Yes, a Grand Secretary of the Imperial Secretariat, whose position is equivalent to that of a Vice Prime Minister, enters the cabinet to participate in state affairs...!"
At that time, as classmates, perhaps... perhaps we can also benefit from some favorable circumstances and avoid setbacks in our official careers.

They were well aware of the rules of officialdom: having connections in the central government made it easier to get ahead. Having a powerful and influential colleague as a patron made a world of difference in both performance evaluations and promotions, as well as in handling affairs within the government.

This is not entirely about scheming, but rather a realistic consideration and expectation.

Cao An sighed softly, his gaze distant, as if returning to the year before last: "Thinking back to Jiangyin, when you and I studied hard with Brother Jiang at the Xue family's private school, studying diligently for the provincial and metropolitan examinations, it seems like only yesterday."

Who knew that time would fly by so quickly? In the blink of an eye, Brother Jiang has soared like a roc spreading its wings, reaching a height that we can only look up to… It's truly awe-inspiring, yet we share in his glory.”

Although they were already students of the emperor and had passed the imperial examinations, most of them were still struggling in mid-level positions such as county magistrates and assistant prefects. Compared with Jiang Xingzhou, who was about to enter the core power circle of the empire, the gap between them was like heaven and earth.

Further out, at the edge of the crowd, were Liu Chun, the second-place finisher, and Cao Jin, the third-place finisher.

The elite scholars of this year's imperial examinations include Song Chuwang, who achieved the second rank in the imperial examinations, and Qin Wen, a talented scholar from Guanzhong.

They were all young and ambitious, full of talent, and were the pride of heaven. They were usually the center of attention in their respective circles.

But at this moment, in front of the Wenhua Hall, a grand occasion where the literary fortunes of the world converge, they all unanimously restrained their usual arrogance, their eyes burning with fervor as they gazed intently at the hall, as if watching a rehearsal concerning their own future.

With a serious expression, Liu Chun spoke in a deep voice to his companions beside him, his tone full of encouragement: "Lord Jiang's actions today are a model for us scholars, and a guiding light on our path forward."

If he succeeds today, he will have opened up a legendary path from a newly appointed Jinshi (successful candidate in the highest imperial examination) to a Grand Secretary in the Imperial Academy!

This proves that as long as one has genuine talent and skills and encounters a wise leader, age and seniority are not insurmountable barriers.

If Jiang Zemin could achieve this, then if we strive forward with determination, we too may well soar to great heights and one day reach the summit!

Upon hearing this, Cao Jin's eyes gleamed with intense fighting spirit and longing.

He clenched his fist and whispered:
"Brother Liu is right!"

We are here today to witness this ceremony!

In the future, we too must strive for excellence and rely on our own strength.

Like Lord Jiang, standing upright and dignified before this Hall of Literary Brilliance, receiving the examination of great Confucian scholars, and attracting the attention of scholars from all over the land, will add another glorious chapter to the literary tradition of our Great Zhou!

Jiang Xingzhou's success greatly inspired the ambitions of these top young scholars.

This showed them the possibility of surpassing conventions and rapidly climbing to the peak of literature and art.

On the edge of the surging crowd, some figures who deliberately kept their distance and wore clothing that was very different from the style of the Central Plains stood out conspicuously.

They were either draped in fur coats unique to the northern demon kingdom, adorned with animal teeth and feathers, or dressed in brocade robes of the western barbarians, characterized by their vibrant colors and bold patterns.

He exuded an aura that was either sinister and cold or fierce and wild, making him stand out from the refined scholars around him.

These were members of delegations from the Northern Demon Kingdom, various tribes of the Western Regions, and the Southern Barbarians.

At this moment, their faces were all solemn and hard, and their eyes were filled with undisguised unease and deep fear, as if they had smelled a deadly threat from a wild beast.

A wolf clan envoy, wearing a wolf fang necklace around his neck and with pupils faintly glowing green, stared intently at the sky above the Wenhua Hall, where the light was subtly distorted and formed an invisible vortex due to the gathering of powerful literary energy.

He spoke in a low, hoarse voice, with a barely perceptible tremor, to his companion beside him:
"Jiang Xingzhou... this jinx, if he really becomes a Grand Secretary of the Imperial Academy, his literary rank will be higher and his power will be greater, given the ruthless and merciless methods he has shown in the Northern Frontier!"

We, and all our peoples, are afraid that we will never have a peaceful life again.

Disaster... is probably imminent.

He seemed to already see the even more ferocious military might and the even harsher suppression along the border of the Great Zhou Dynasty in the future.

Another demon envoy, with a hooked nose and sharp, piercing eyes, echoed worriedly, his voice suppressed:
"That's right! Recalling the battle in the Northern Frontier, he was only the Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue and a Hanlin Academician, yet he dared to take the initiative and almost annihilated the Snow Wolf Clan's 100,000 elite troops with thunderous methods, and even the Great Demon King could not escape... Such ruthlessness and decisiveness is unheard of."

If he were to truly hold the power of the Ministry of Revenue over finances and grain, and further benefit from the literary and artistic fortune of a Grand Secretary, he would be like a tiger with wings... The strength of the Great Zhou Dynasty would surely rise steadily.

"Next, will their elite cavalry and those damned scribe spells target our grasslands and our sacred mountain?"

Fear and anxiety, like a cold plague, spread silently and rapidly among these envoys, each with their own ulterior motives.

They felt as if countless invisible needles were pricking their backs, making them restless and unable to sit still.

Each of Jiang Xingzhou's promotions was not a literary event for them, but rather a sword of Damocles hanging over their heads, drawing ever closer.

They stood here not to admire any literary talent, but like sentinels, nervously assessing the threat level of this future formidable foe.

Although the people of Luoyang were not allowed to enter the heavily guarded area to witness the grand spectacle inside the Wenhua Hall, their enthusiasm and anticipation surged like a spring tide, undiminished in the slightest.

Outside the palace, the ten-mile-long Heavenly Street that once ran through the capital and symbolized the emperor's majesty was no longer a major thoroughfare, but was now completely submerged by a sea of ​​people.

A sea of ​​black heads stretched from the square in front of the palace gate to the horizon, shoulder to shoulder, the noise so loud that even the cracks in the bricks seemed to vibrate.

The restaurants and teahouses along the street, which are usually bustling with business, are experiencing an unprecedented boom today.

All the elegant seats and private rooms facing the street were snapped up yesterday by shrewd businessmen and leisurely literati.

Prices have already skyrocketed to astonishingly high levels, yet it remains incredibly difficult to secure a place. It's as if being able to secure a spot here is somehow subtly connected to that momentous literary and artistic event that determined the fate of the nation.

In the best private room on the third floor of the renowned "Zui Xian Lou" restaurant, several wealthy merchants dressed in fine silks and satins, with large bellies, sat around a round mahogany table, which was laden with exquisite Jiangnan tea snacks and seasonal fresh fruits.

But their gazes were all elsewhere, fixed intently on the silhouette of the majestic palace in the distance through the carved window lattices.

"Manager Wang, you are the most knowledgeable among us!"

Tell me, how confident is Lord Jiang in his chances of becoming a Grand Secretary?

A plump businessman with a ruddy complexion couldn't help but put down his Jingdezhen porcelain cup and asked in a low voice, his tone filled with eagerness to find out inside information.

The middle-aged merchant, known as Manager Wang, slowly stroked his neatly trimmed short beard, his eyes gleaming with shrewd calculation, and pondered, "In my opinion, I am at least 70% confident!"

Who is Lord Jiang?

That was a scholar who achieved the highest rank in the imperial examinations, a rare feat throughout history!

In the battle of the Northern Frontier, just think about it, his words on the spot were a testament to the nation's strength, his righteous spirit soared to the heavens, and he killed the infamous Great Demon King of the Wolf Clan with a single arrow!
With such extraordinary abilities and unfathomable knowledge, this is merely a formality; passing the imperial examination for the position of Grand Secretary is, in my opinion, a piece of cake!

"If it can be done, that would be a tremendous joy!"

Another businessman chimed in, his face full of anticipation, "I've heard that since Lord Jiang took over the administration of the Ministry of Revenue, he has been working hard to clarify the accounts accumulated over the years."

With such swift and decisive crackdowns on corrupt officials, life is much better for those of us who honestly run businesses and pay taxes according to the rules!
"Hopefully, once he truly assumes full power in the ministry, the business environment will surely become much more transparent!"

Meanwhile, in an ordinary teahouse called "Qingmingju" on the street corner, a completely different scene unfolded – bustling with activity.

People from all walks of life gathered here, and the air was filled with the smell of cheap tobacco and the strong aroma of tea.

The storyteller, who usually tells tales of talented men and beautiful women, wisely changed his program today. Standing on a simple stage, he spoke with great enthusiasm and vivid detail about Jiang Xingzhou's legendary battle in the northern frontier.

Although the details were exaggerated, they still excited the tea drinkers, who cheered and exclaimed in amazement.

"On that day, Lord Jiang stood alone at Yanmen Pass, facing 100,000 ferocious demon soldiers below the city, and remained calm and composed!"
But as he recited the true words of sages, golden light descended from the sky in an instant, and a divine general appeared!
The scene was truly breathtaking; the heavens and earth seemed to change color, and even ghosts and gods were terrified!

"If you ask me, Lord Jiang is the reincarnation of the God of Literature!"

They came specifically to assist our Empress in ushering in a golden age of peace and prosperity!

"This is just a Hanlin Academician, yet he already possesses such extraordinary abilities!"
"Once Lord Jiang is promoted to Grand Secretary of the Imperial Academy today, his literary talent will be enhanced, and his supernatural abilities will be even greater. Let's see if those barbaric wolves in the north still dare to bare their teeth!"

Along both sides of the street, there were mostly ordinary citizens, young and old, who had come spontaneously to wait for news.

The vendors seized this rare business opportunity, loudly hawking their fruits, steamed buns, and candied hawthorns, while children played and weaved through the crowd, turning this solemn wait into a lively folk festival.

The entire space was filled with a sense of anxious yet excited anticipation, as if waiting for the finale of a grand performance.

"Mother, when will Lord Jiang finish his exams and come out?" A little girl with two small buns looked up at her mother's slightly rough clothes and asked in a childish voice.

"It'll be soon, it'll be soon, my good child. I'll tell you first when news comes from the palace."

The simply dressed woman lovingly patted her daughter's head, but her gaze, like that of countless others around her, was fixed on the distant and majestic palace gate.

She may not understand the hierarchy of civil and military ranks, but she clearly remembers that this young Lord Jiang won a great victory in the north, bringing peace to the border and making him a great hero who protected the country.

Some impoverished scholars who had studied for several years but failed to achieve official rank spontaneously gathered at street corners or against walls, excitedly discussing the prestigious status of a Grand Secretary and the profound impact that Jiang Xingzhou's successful promotion would have on the literary world.

"A Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame!"
Those are pillars of strength, capable of entering the cabinet and becoming prime ministers, and even guiding the cultural development of a nation!

"If Lord Jiang succeeds, with his extraordinary talent, he will surely greatly boost the literary style and morale of our dynasty!"

Perhaps next year's imperial examination questions will be more innovative and profound because of this, presenting an opportunity for us scholars who have studied diligently for years!

Among the crowd were also those clever servants and newsboys who were as slippery as eels.

Like keen hunting dogs, they nimbly weaved through the crowded streets, their ears pricked up to catch any whispers uttered by palace guards or low-ranking officials who occasionally came and went.

Then they would run quickly to various restaurants, guild halls, and shops to deliver the message, in exchange for a small reward of a few copper coins.

Every time vague news like "There seems to be some movement inside the Wenhua Hall" or "Did you hear the bell of the Confucian Temple?" spread, it would immediately cause a commotion and even more heated discussion in a small area.

The bustling praises in the teahouse, the rational analysis among the drinkers, the simple hopes of the common people, the innocent questions of the children... a vivid portrayal of everyday life in the city.

They may not fully understand the intricate and unpredictable power struggles within the imperial court.

They may find it difficult to comprehend the profound mysteries of literary cultivation.

But their pure reverence for heroes, their fervent desire for the prosperity of the Great Zhou Dynasty, and their simple expectation for a peaceful and prosperous world were no less sincere and passionate than those of any learned scholar or powerful minister in the palace.

The hustle and bustle of Luoyang reached a strange peak when the five old men appeared on the ten-mile-long Tianjie Street.

Then, like a receding tide, it quickly receded, transforming into a solemn silence.

The people involuntarily stepped back, making way for a wide passage, and watched the five figures walking slowly with awe.

They were dressed simply, some in wide-sleeved Confucian robes, others in old crane cloaks, without much adornment. But with each step they took, it seemed as if an invisible scholarly aura resonated with heaven and earth, their steps were unhurried, as if mountains were moving on their own.

The clamor of voices quietly subsided as they passed by, leaving only the faint rustling of the wind through the eaves and countless breaths held in suspense.

These were the five great Confucian scholars invited to preside over the examination of Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Fame: Lu Mingde, Dong Xian, Li Wenyuan, Zheng Shouchang, and Zhou Pu.

Instead of riding in a ceremonial carriage, they walked into the palace as if they were old friends going on an outing, chatting and laughing along the way, seemingly oblivious to the thunderous stares and attention they received.

"After many years away from Luoyang, this ten-mile-long street is even more prosperous than before."

Li Wenyuan stroked his beard and chuckled, his gentle gaze sweeping over the excited yet silent crowds on both sides of the street. He said to Lu Mingde beside him, "Brother Lu, your Songyang Academy has a strict discipline and has nurtured countless talents. Your students are truly all over the world."

I heard that your prized disciple, Cao Jin, managed to win the third-highest rank in this brilliant imperial examination. It is truly remarkable; the younger generation is indeed formidable.

Given time, they will surely become pillars of the nation.

Upon hearing this, Lu Mingde's face showed a look of satisfaction, but he waved his hand repeatedly and looked at Dong Xian, who had a calm expression, saying, "Brother Li, you flatter me."

Cao Jin, that kid, has only just begun to understand the basics and still needs more practice.

Unlike my brother Dong's disciples, my nephew Shaoqing is already a pillar of the state, in charge of the Secretariat, managing countless affairs every day.

My humble teaching skills are hardly worthy of comparison with Brother Dong's.

Dong Xian chuckled, a hint of approval for his disciple flashing in his eyes, but then he looked towards the palace, his tone filled with undisguised admiration and a touch of pure envy:

"They are all just past glories."

No matter how outstanding our disciples are, they are no match for Jiang Xingzhou, who is about to take the imperial examination in the palace!

I've heard that he's the last disciple of that little brother Pei Jingyi.
Brother Pei, usually so quiet and reclusive in Jiangyin, has actually taught such a brilliant and talented disciple. He must be laughing in his dreams every night!

"Haha, Brother Dong is absolutely right!"

Zheng Shouchang took over the conversation, his voice booming with the boldness characteristic of the North, "If I had a disciple like this, I would not only wake up laughing in the middle of the night, but I would also gather three or five old friends, drink three large cups of wine, and drink to my heart's content for three days and three nights to truly enjoy myself!"

Zhou Pu, who had always been taciturn and had a somewhat ethereal air, showed a rare genuine smile as he looked at Dong Xian: "Brother Dong, it's been many years, but you still look as dashing as ever."

It is fate that allows me to gather with you all today and preside over this grand event.

As they chatted and laughed, the topic naturally turned to the upcoming assessment.

Li Wenyuan's expression turned serious, and he said:
"Gentlemen, jokes aside."

The upcoming assessment concerns the inheritance of literature and the selection of virtuous officials by the imperial court. We must not let personal matters interfere with public duty and must uphold justice and fairness.

We need to demonstrate our true abilities and carefully assess whether this Hanlin scholar Jiang is truly worthy of the position of Grand Secretary!

“What Chief Minister Li said is absolutely right.”

Lu Mingde nodded, his gaze becoming sharp and clear, like a mirror polished over the years. "The whole world is watching. This assessment is not only a test of Jiang Xingzhou, but also a test of our judgment."

Literature is like a mirror, reflecting one's true nature.

If he truly possesses extraordinary talent and profound knowledge spanning ancient and modern times, we will certainly recommend him without hesitation, so that he can set a new benchmark for the culture and scholarship of our Great Zhou Dynasty.
If there are still shortcomings, they should be clearly pointed out to help improve them.

This is a public instrument of scholarship and morality, and cannot tolerate the slightest selfishness.

Zhou Pu nodded slightly, his words concise yet weighty: "We follow the Way!"

The five Confucian scholars exchanged a smile, everything understood without a word.

At their level, worldly power struggles and interpersonal relationships have long since vanished like smoke.

What they sought throughout their lives was nothing more than the true essence of literature and the Way, the discovery of true pillars of society, and the protection of the orthodoxy and purity of the cultural lineage of this world.

In their view, any deliberate obstruction or leniency is a desecration of the "literary way" in their hearts.

At this moment, only reverence for literature and the Way, responsibility for future generations, and the relentless pursuit of the ultimate truths of heaven and earth fill my heart.

This is the foundation upon which they will become saints in the future; there is nothing more important than this!

As they spoke, the majestic palace gates came into view.

The five men suppressed their smiles, straightened their already impeccable attire, and regained the solemnity and dignity befitting great Confucian scholars.

As they stepped through the palace gates, they completely shut out the hustle and bustle and anticipation of the outside world.

The heavy palace gates slowly closed behind the five great scholars, completely isolating them from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Inside the palace, a solemn and awe-inspiring silence instantly descended, with only the sound of the wind passing through the halls, brushing against the glazed tiles of the palaces and corridors, and bringing the faint whisper of the distant pines.

Under the respectful guidance of the eunuchs, the five Confucian scholars walked slowly along the imperial road paved with white marble and carved with cloud patterns toward the venue of this assessment—the Wenhua Hall.

Their steps were steady, their robes fluttered in the breeze, and the refined air about them resonated with the heavens and earth, causing even the eunuchs leading the way to bow unconsciously.

On the steps leading to the palace, palace servants stood respectfully with their hands at their sides, like clay or wooden sculptures.

As the figures of the five great Confucian scholars appeared at the end of the square, a figure in bright yellow, quietly escorted by palace maids and eunuchs, slowly emerged from the majestic palace gate.

It was Empress Wu Mingyue.

Today, she was not wearing the elaborate court dress that displayed majesty, but only a bright yellow everyday dress that symbolized her imperial status, with a simple gold hairpin with a phoenix in her hair, and no other adornments.

However, within its simplicity, an undeniable, supreme authority naturally emanates.

Upon seeing the five elderly men approach the steps of the imperial palace, she did not stand still, but instead took the initiative to descend a few steps of white marble to show her respect for the senior scholars.

"Wu Mingyue greets the five gentlemen."

The Empress cupped her hands in a perfectly standard gesture of respect from a disciple to his master, her voice clear and melodious like a jade chime, her attitude utterly sincere.

Upon seeing this, the five Confucian scholars, though composed and clear-eyed, dared not fully accept such a grand gesture.

Almost simultaneously, they slightly turned aside, avoiding the position of honor directly in front of them, and then bowed in unison, returning the Empress's deep bow, their voices aged yet steady:

"Your Majesty is of inestimable worth; this is unacceptable!"

"Your Majesty is the ruler of the nation, the supreme sovereign. This ceremony is far too much for us old ministers!"

"Your Majesty, please rise!"

They knew that although they were seniors in terms of literary and academic seniority, the Empress treated them with the respect due to teachers, showing her deep respect for the virtuous.

However, the distinction between ruler and subject is the foundation of the state.

The emperor of the Great Zhou Dynasty, nominally appointed by Heaven and destined for greatness, holds a position equal to that of a human semi-saint, ruling over all directions. This is the cornerstone for maintaining the stability of the country and the people.

As great Confucian scholars, they were obligated to uphold the dignity of literature and morality, and they also needed to adhere to this principle, setting an example and safeguarding the supreme authority of the emperor.

Empress Wu Mingyue straightened up, a hint of understanding and appreciation flashing in her phoenix eyes.

She naturally understood the subtle nuances concerning etiquette and the foundation of rule.

She reigned for more than a decade, diligently governing and promoting literature. With the blessing of the nation's fortune and her own hard work, her literary and moral cultivation had reached the pinnacle of a master, approaching the realm of a great Confucian scholar, but she never truly broke through that barrier.

Once a Grand Secretary of the Hall of Literary Brilliance is promoted to the rank of Great Confucian Scholar and obtains the literary title of Great Confucian Scholar, their power and influence among scholars will surpass that of ordinary officials.

Therefore, there was an unspoken rule among the court officials that great Confucian scholars and officials would not directly participate in specific government affairs. Instead, they would often exist as "imperial tutors," "advisors," or retreat to the mountains to cultivate themselves, so as to avoid their personal will from directly influencing national policies or even weakening the emperor's authority.

Unless, of course, the emperor's strength also reaches that of a great Confucian scholar, or even close to the level of a semi-saint.

Only a subject, a great Confucian scholar, could occupy a position in the imperial court.

This is a sophisticated art of balancing that has been passed down through generations, giving supreme respect to literature and the Way while ensuring the absolute authority of the Great Zhou imperial power and the unity of its decrees.

"These five gentlemen are literary giants and national treasures, and I should respect them."

The Empress's tone was gentle yet carried an undeniable firmness. She gracefully gestured towards the main hall, saying, "Today's assessment concerns the fate of the nation and its cultural heritage. We must rely on you gentlemen to uphold justice and select true pillars of the court. Please follow me into the hall."

"Your Majesty, please go first."

The five Confucian scholars bowed again, displaying impeccable manners and not overstepping any boundaries.

The Empress no longer declined, turned around, and walked steadily into the Wenhua Hall first.

The five Confucian scholars then filed in one after another.

The main hall was solemn and magnificent, and had already been properly arranged.

The throne was set on a high step to the north, but slightly lower than it would be during a regular grand court assembly. This subtle arrangement indicated that the main focus of today's occasion was not the emperor, but the examination of literary skills.

Below the throne, on the east and west sides, there are five large sandalwood tables, each with writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones, all precious items imbued with spiritual light and exuding a faint literary air. These are the examination seats for the five great Confucian scholars.

In the center of the main hall, where sunlight streamed through the high window, there was a slightly smaller but equally ancient and dignified examination table, clearly prepared for today's examiner—Jiang Xingzhou.

Inside the hall, officials stood in rank on both sides, completely silent, even their breathing was deliberately slowed down.

All eyes were drawn to the Empress and the five great scholars as if by a magnet, the atmosphere so heavy it seemed as if water droplets could freeze.

Inside the Wenhua Hall, the sandalwood incense smoke rose straight up like a thread, quietly dispersing among the carved beams and painted rafters.

The officials, led by the ministers of the three provinces and six ministries, stood with their heads bowed in solemn silence. The vast hall was so quiet you could hear a pin drop, with only the faint sound of their suppressed breathing discernible.

The Empress sat regally on the imperial platform, her bright yellow robes highlighting her natural majesty;
On the east and west sides, five great scholars stood in their respective places. Although their expressions were peaceful, their eyes, refined by the years and their knowledge, reflected people's hearts like ancient mirrors.

An invisible pressure, a blend of imperial majesty and profound literary knowledge, permeated the air, weighing heavily on everyone's heart.

"Summon Jiang Xingzhou, Hanlin Academician and Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, to the palace!"

The eunuch's long, high-pitched voice, like a sharp blade slicing through taut silk, abruptly broke the deathly silence in the hall and instantly gripped the hearts of all onlookers.

At the palace gate, light and shadow subtly separated.

A figure in a green robe, bathed in the sunlight streaming in from outside, calmly entered the main hall.

It was Jiang Xingzhou.

His steps were steady and even, each step seemingly measured, unhurried and deliberate. His footsteps on the smooth, mirror-like gold brick floor produced a soft yet clear sound, which, in this extremely quiet environment, seemed to carry a peculiar rhythm.

His expression was calm as still water, his gaze clear as an autumn pool. He faced the dignified empress on the throne, the five learned scholars on either side with sharp eyes, and the scrutinizing, expectant, or complex gazes of the civil and military officials in the hall.

There was no trace of tension or awkwardness, nor any arrogance of youthful success; only a deep-seated calmness and composure.

We walked down the steps to the center of the main hall.

He stopped, clasped his hands slightly, and solemnly straightened his already perfectly pressed clothes. Then he bowed deeply, performing a standard and respectful bow towards the throne and the tables of the Confucian scholars on either side.

"Your subject, Jiang Xingzhou, pays his respects to Your Majesty."

"Student Jiang Xingzhou pays his respects to the five gentlemen."

His voice was clear and melodious, like the gentle ringing of a jade chime. It was neither too loud nor too soft, yet every word was distinct and resonated steadily in the silent hall, exuding a power that was neither humble nor arrogant.

After the ceremony, he straightened up, his gaze meeting that of the Empress on the throne, and spoke again, his tone calm and firm:
"Your Majesty, I request to be examined by the five scholars for the position of Grand Secretary of the Imperial Academy!"

The words were extremely concise, without any redundant preamble or self-deprecating remarks, yet they carried an unquestionable determination and confidence forged through countless trials and tribulations and stemming from absolute strength.

Empress Wu Mingyue nodded slightly, a barely perceptible hint of admiration flashing deep in her phoenix eyes. Her voice was calm, yet naturally contained an aura of imperial authority:

"allow."

Having received permission, Jiang Xingzhou said no more.

He turned around and walked calmly toward the sandalwood examination table set up for him in the center of the hall.

On the table, Xuan paper was laid out, Huizhou ink had been ground, Huzhou brushes hung, and Duan inkstones gleamed—all were precious items brimming with literary charm.

He walked to the table, gracefully sat down, his back naturally straight like a pine tree, and his hands rested steadily on his knees.

The entire movement was fluid and natural, without the slightest hesitation or delay.

After sitting down, he lowered his eyelids slightly, as if he were closing his eyes to rest and adjust his breathing, or as if he were sinking into his inner world of literature, communicating and verifying what he had learned.

In an instant, the already restrained aura around him seemed to settle completely, isolating him from all the noise and pressure of the outside world, creating a quiet and stable world of his own.

At that moment, he sat alone in the center of attention.

Above, the emperor scrutinized them; beside him, five great Confucian scholars questioned them; below, a hundred officials watched and observed.

Under the watchful eyes of countless people, I am surrounded by invisible pressure.

But he remained as still as an ancient well, reflecting all things without being moved;
Like a deep pool and a towering mountain, I remain steadfast amidst the wind and waves.

The five scholars exchanged glances, each seeing genuine surprise and a deeper sense of gravity in the other's eyes.

This young man is not only rumored to have amazing knowledge, but his composure in the face of great events and his calm demeanor in the face of adversity far exceed their expectations for a talented person of this age.

Faced with a situation that would shake even the minds of ordinary geniuses, his ability to so quickly eliminate all distractions and return to a state of utmost tranquility is itself a manifestation of extraordinary talent.

Dong Xian paused slightly as he stroked his beard, and the sharp light in his eyes intensified, as if he had discovered a rare gem.
On Zhou Pu's usually calm face, the corner of his mouth twitched almost imperceptibly, as if a trace of pure approval had passed through it.

Lu Mingde, Li Wenyuan, and Zheng Shouchang nodded to each other, their expectations rising even higher.

Before the assessment had even officially begun, Jiang Xingzhou had already impressed everyone in the hall with his outstanding demeanor and calm temperament.

The atmosphere inside the Wenhua Hall grew increasingly solemn.

Everyone knew that the real test was about to begin.
-
ps:
Working myself to the bone in November!
For every 500 monthly passes, I'll write 1 words straight out of my sleeve! Come on! Unleash your fury upon me!

Completed today, 1.1 words updated!

Day 3 of 10,000-word update!
(End of this chapter)