The Lantern Festival of the 14th year of the Great Jin was more lively than ever before. Jiang Ruan’s name spread throughout the entire capital overnight. For a time, all the common people in the capital were discussing how the eldest daughter who had just returned to the Jiang residence was absolutely beautiful in appearance, unparalleled in talent and arts, and also well-mannered, observant of etiquette, with noble bearing—no less remarkable than the former Second Miss Jiang.

Early in the morning, Jiang Susu woke up to see an exquisite white rabbit lantern placed on the carved wooden cabinet beside her bed. She was stunned for a moment, then suddenly became furious, shrieking: “Someone come! Qingting! Hudie!”

Hudie quickly ran in: “Miss, what has happened?”

Jiang Susu pointed at the white rabbit lantern: “Who put this here?”

Hudie was also startled to see the lantern: “I didn’t see it this morning, how did it suddenly appear.”

A third-rank maid standing behind Hudie stepped forward timidly: “It was delivered by Sister Bai Zhi from the eldest miss’s side. This servant thought the lantern looked cute, so I placed it here.”

“Who gave you permission to make your own decisions?” Jiang Susu sneered coldly: “Drag her away.”

Two strong servant women immediately entered from outside and dragged the maid away. The maid cried out in terror: “Second Miss, this servant was wrong! Second Miss, please spare this servant! This servant will never dare again!”

The voice gradually faded away. Hudie carefully placed a cup of tea in Jiang Susu’s hands: “Miss, please drink some ginger tea to warm yourself.”

Jiang Susu knocked Hudie’s hand away, grabbed the butterfly lantern from beside her bed, and viciously tore it to shreds. Like venting her anger, she threw the lantern remnants on the ground and stomped on them several times, until they were unrecognizable.

“That bitch Jiang Ruan is clearly here to provoke me. Does she really think she’s so important just because she got this lantern? She’s nothing but trash that can’t be presented properly!” Jiang Susu sat down on the couch: “Someday, she’ll be like this lantern, at my mercy.”

Hudie didn’t dare breathe heavily. Jiang Susu at this moment looked like a demon, nothing like her usual gentle and innocent appearance.

Just then, Qingting rushed in from outside in a panic: “Miss, something terrible has happened!”

Jiang Susu was already angry and said displeasedly: “What are you being so clumsy about? What happened now?”

“This servant heard that early this morning, word spread throughout the capital saying that Mrs. Zhou the Eldest was a villain deliberately invited to tarnish the eldest miss’s reputation, but yesterday by mistake she harmed the second miss instead.”

“What?” Jiang Susu stood up abruptly, too anxious to care about anything else, and pressed: “Where did this talk come from? Zhou the Eldest confessed? This is impossible!”

“This servant doesn’t know either,” Qingting said hastily: “Now the whole city is discussing this matter, speaking as if it were true.”

Jiang Susu’s face went pale: “Mother clearly said there would be no problems. Who exactly spread these words? No, I must go see Mother.” She then put on her outer garment: “Hurry, Mother will surely find a way for me.”

Unlike the chaotic scene at Meiqing Garden, Ruan Residence was entirely peaceful.

Lu Zhu arranged the pearl and jade sweet dumplings on the table, then took a small plate of rose pastries from the basket: “The pastries are a reward from the old madam, saying that miss performed well last night, and had Sister Cai Que deliver them.”

Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. Madam Jiang didn’t mention Jiang Susu’s matter at all—her attitude was thought-provoking. It seemed Xia Yan hadn’t gained any favor with the old madam either.

While watching Jiang Ruan taste the pastries, Lu Zhu said: “Miss, the whole outside world has gone crazy today, saying someone wanted to frame the eldest miss but caused the second miss to suffer instead.” She paused and looked at Jiang Ruan’s expression: “I imagine Meiqing Garden is in complete chaos now. What miss did was truly satisfying.”

Lian Qiao was doing embroidery nearby and couldn’t help but speak upon seeing Lu Zhu’s manner: “Satisfying is satisfying, but Lu Zhu, you must ensure everything you did was foolproof and don’t cause trouble for miss.”

“Sister, please rest assured,” Lu Zhu said proudly: “I found thirty children in the marketplace, plus beggars from the East City Gate, and used copper coins. There’s no way to trace the source.”

Jiang Ruan sipped the jade soup and said: “You did very well. Besides these words, did you say anything else?”

“This servant wouldn’t dare forget miss’s instructions,” Lu Zhu’s face showed some hesitation: “But is it really good to say such things? That person’s status…”

“Anyone who helps Jiang Susu is my enemy. How can they not pay a price? This is just a small return gift. He made me quite unpleasant after all.” Jiang Ruan smiled.

The rumors in the capital didn’t only affect the Jiang residence. At Prince Jinying’s mansion, the elderly steward Lin, past his sixtieth year, was so worried his beard kept twitching: “What should we do? These rumors are getting more and more outrageous. Who exactly spread such words? If I find out, I’ll make them pay dearly.”

Standing opposite him was Ye Feng, who moved his lips, thought for a moment, but remained silent.

Overnight, while rumors spread in the capital about Xia Yan wanting to frame Jiang Ruan, another rumor also arose: that Prince Jinying Xiao Shao was deeply infatuated with Jiang Susu, which was why he was willing to lie for her last night.

This rumor was told in vivid detail, even describing clearly how Jiang Susu and Xiao Shao fell mutually in love. Steward Lin was frantic with worry. He had watched his young master grow up and knew what kind of person he was. He had never heard Xiao Shao mention Jiang Susu. If not for this rumor, Steward Lin probably wouldn’t even know who Jiang Susu was.

“What kind of person wants to ruin the prince’s reputation? What kind of person is Jiang Susu? Deeply infatuated—what nonsense!”

Steward Lin had always been hot-tempered. Despite his advanced age, he was still as straightforward as a child. Ye Feng was used to this and simply looked up at the sky, pretending not to know. Just then, he heard Xiao Shao call from inside: “Ye Feng.”

Ye Feng immediately became serious: “Master.” He flashed into the room and saw Xiao Shao standing at the desk, playing with an exquisite dagger in his hand: “Have you found out who it was?”

“It was a maid from the Jiang residence. The Jinyiwei are still investigating—perhaps it was Second Miss Jiang?” Ye Feng asked tentatively. In his view, Xiao Shao was outstanding in appearance. Jiang Susu might have spread such rumors herself, perhaps hoping to catch this marriage with Prince Jinying. If the rumors spread, Jiang Susu would have no choice but to marry Xiao Shao.

“It wasn’t her.” Xiao Shao said.

“Who does master think it was?” Ye Feng was puzzled and couldn’t help asking.

Xiao Shao’s mind again conjured the image from last night on the Linglong Boat—the red-dressed young girl looking at him with what seemed like deep hatred in her eyes.

His eyes narrowed as he said coldly: “Investigate the Jiang family’s eldest daughter.”

Among the places affected by the capital’s rumors, there were naturally places that remained unaffected. For instance, Liu Min in the Imperial Academy knew nothing about what happened last night. These past few days, he had been preparing for the imperial examination in a few days. That mysterious person who never signed their name continued corresponding with him. Each day he would place his reply on the desk, and the other party wouldn’t take it, but another letter would appear on the desk. As if without needing to read his replies, the other party knew what he was saying. But in these few short days of interaction, Liu Min discovered that the other party’s learning was superior. When they had disagreements, the other party always had ways to convince him step by step with sufficient reasons that were hard to refute.

Liu Min had no other friends in the Imperial Academy, so he came to regard this unnamed person as a confidant in his heart. Today, as usual, another letter appeared on the desk, but it wasn’t discussing academic issues—it contained only two words: Good luck.

This was wishing him success in the imperial examination in a few days. Liu Min smiled and put the letter away. Turning to leave the dormitory, as soon as he stepped through the Imperial Academy study hall doors, he heard everyone talking animatedly.

“I never expected Brother Jiang’s sister who just returned home to be such a wonderful person. Last night with one dance, she completely overshadowed Second Miss Jiang.”

Liu Min said nothing and walked to his seat to sit down. He naturally knew everyone was discussing what happened at the Linglong Boat during the Lantern Festival, but coming from a poor background, he had no qualification to participate and didn’t know what happened, nor did he care to know.

“But Miss Jiang the Eldest has a hard fate. Being sent to a manor from childhood was bad enough, and just after returning home she provoked Madam Jiang to use such underhanded methods. Truly pitiable.” Another young gentleman shook his head, his tone quite sympathetic.

“Madam Jiang and Second Miss Jiang usually seem so gentle and kind, how could they do such things?”

“You can know someone’s face but not their heart. Didn’t you see Second Miss Jiang and Prince Jinying’s actions last night? They probably already have feelings for each other.” As soon as this person finished speaking, the student across from him said: “Your words are so sour—are you perhaps envious that you’re not Prince Jinying and can’t win the beauty?”

Everyone laughed heartily. Just then, someone entered from outside, wearing a rain-silk brocade jacket, but with deeply furrowed brows. It was Jiang Chao. Seeing Jiang Chao enter, everyone’s discussion abruptly stopped, though their eyes still carried some mockery. Jiang Chao naturally understood what their looks meant and immediately felt a surge of inexplicable anger, feeling as if everyone was looking at him like a joke. So he strode in with large steps, and as he passed Liu Min, his body heavily collided with Liu Min’s desk. Immediately, all the ink on the desk spilled over, staining Liu Min’s clothes.

Jiang Chao turned around viciously. The ink had also splashed a few drops on his brocade shirt. He was already looking for somewhere to vent his anger, and now with ink staining his clothes, without waiting for Liu Min to speak, he grabbed Liu Min from his seat: “What are you doing!”

Jiang Chao had always presented himself as affable and gentle in the Imperial Academy. Although he wasn’t close to Liu Min, he wouldn’t actively provoke him either. Today he was too frustrated. But most students in the Imperial Academy came from prominent families and couldn’t be easily offended. Looking around, only Liu Min could be freely bullied.

Everyone around watched without speaking. No one would stand up for Liu Min. Liu Min was being held by his collar by Jiang Chao. He wasn’t as large or strong as Jiang Chao, so at this moment he could only stare at Jiang Chao with his clear, proud eyes without speaking.

Jiang Chao didn’t see fear in Liu Min’s eyes, which made him even more furious, wishing he could tear the person in front of him to pieces. Taking a deep breath, he suddenly smiled and said maliciously: “You dirtied my clothes. What do you think should be done?”

Liu Min usually acted with pride in the Imperial Academy. If this had happened normally, he would definitely argue on principle and would rather die than submit. For someone with extremely strong self-respect like him, Jiang Chao’s question was a great humiliation. Everyone was waiting to watch the show, but unexpectedly, that usually stubborn young man slightly lowered his head and said: “I’m sorry.”

Everyone was stunned.

Just as Liu Min was about to act impulsively, he somehow suddenly remembered those letters from the stranger. One letter had debated with him about whether one should bow before the powerful in life. Liu Min believed in never yielding unto death, but the other disagreed. The other said that maintaining inner righteousness while adapting to worldly ways was the wise approach. Like bamboo in a bamboo grove—few are ever broken because they know how to bend with the wind, yet they maintain their upright form and aren’t blown away by the wind. But rigid solitary trees and roadside wildflowers are most easily broken by the wind. The former don’t know how to bend, the latter don’t know how to stand firm.

Adaptation and persistence should be balanced. Smart people who master this balance can accomplish what they want to do.

At this moment, Liu Min suddenly remembered this passage from the letter. The other had said that in worldly matters, perhaps bending is harder than persisting.

He looked at the somewhat dazed Jiang Chao and repeated: “I’m sorry.”

Jiang Chao came back to his senses. He never expected this proud poor man to yield before him, but he wasn’t happy at all, because although Liu Min spoke this way, those eyes remained as proud as ever, as if mocking his childishness. For a moment, Jiang Chao’s anger blazed even higher. He sneered: “One sorry and it’s over? Today if you don’t lick this clean for me, don’t think about leaving this door!”

The other students in the Imperial Academy saw this scene and couldn’t help discussing among themselves. Although they usually bullied Liu Min too, they maintained their dignity as scholars and were unwilling to do degrading things. The usually gentle and affable Jiang Chao being so aggressive today was truly despicable.

Jiang Chao was completely unaware of others’ opinions, single-mindedly wanting to see Liu Min’s wretched appearance, wanting Liu Min to beg for mercy before him. If he didn’t beg for mercy, even if Liu Min could get out today, he would probably face endless troubles in the future, especially since he had a bedridden mother at home.

Liu Min clenched his palms. His features were naturally delicate, and at this moment he looked somewhat angry, but soon that trace of anger was suppressed. He lifted his washed-white azure shirt and said softly: “If Young Master Jiang insists on this, Liu Min can only comply.”

After speaking, he knelt on one knee, about to lick the ink spots on Jiang Chao’s clothing.

Everyone held their breath. Today’s events were truly bizarre—first, the usually most affable Jiang Chao was being so aggressive, and second, the stubbornly upright Liu Min was actually yielding and kneeling.

Jiang Chao was also stunned in place, his heart only filled with inexplicable rage that couldn’t be released. He had wanted to use Liu Min to vent, but hadn’t expected Liu Min to seem like a different person today. It was like punching soft cotton—clearly a lowly action, but somehow being looked at by those proud eyes made it seem as if Liu Min was the noble one looking down on him.

Without thinking, Jiang Chao kicked toward Liu Min, but just as he lifted his foot, something hit his knee and he couldn’t complete the motion.

Mo Cong stepped forward: “Where there’s room for forgiveness, be forgiving. Brother Jiang, why haggle over a piece of clothing? Brother Liu made an innocent mistake. Why ruin your mood before the imperial examination in a few days over this? Let me compensate you with a garment, and Brother Jiang can stop making things difficult for Brother Liu.”

Liu Min glanced at Mo Cong, truly not expecting Mo Cong to speak up for him. Jiang Chao was also surprised. Mo Cong’s status wasn’t something he could casually bully, and even though his heart burned with rage, he couldn’t show it. He flicked his sleeves, snorted coldly, and strode out of the study hall without looking back.

After Jiang Chao left, Mo Cong said to Liu Min: “Are you alright?”

Liu Min stood up and lightly brushed the dust off his body. Not minding the ink stains all over him, he thanked Mo Cong and sat back down, silently reading his books as if nothing had happened. His actions were graceful and refreshing, without a trace of resentment, as if the previous incident had never occurred. Mo Cong watched this and a flash of contemplation crossed his eyes.

The students’ dispute in the Imperial Academy went unnoticed, but the entire scene was observed by two people outside. Registrar Song and Academician Chen stood outside the door. Registrar Song said angrily: “Jiang Chao is too outrageous! What kind of place is the Imperial Academy? Does he think it’s where noble children can throw their weight around? This truly disgraces scholars!”

“His heart is filled with frustration and anger.” Academician Chen said. They had also heard about yesterday’s events and naturally knew why Jiang Chao acted abnormally today.

“No matter what, he shouldn’t treat his colleagues this way!” Registrar Song was displeased: “But Liu Min today surprised me—he actually knows how to yield. If it were the past, who knows what kind of commotion would have erupted.”

Given Liu Min’s usual temperament, he would surely have caused a great disturbance. Logically Liu Min would be in the right, but Minister Jiang was extremely protective of his family, especially his legitimate sons and daughters. In the end, Liu Min would be the one to suffer.

“His knowing how to bend is the most frightening part.” Academician Chen’s gaze deepened: “We underestimated him before. This young man can bend and stretch. If he enters the court, he will surely achieve great things in the future. Jiang Chao falls far short.”

Registrar Song usually heard Academician Chen wasn’t optimistic about Liu Min, so now that he was actively praising Liu Min, which aligned with his own thoughts, he felt reassured and agreed: “Indeed, and Liu Min is completely sincere, upright and incorruptible—truly rare talent.”

Academician Chen smiled and said no more.

Jiang Chao angrily returned to the Jiang residence and immediately rushed to Meiqing Garden. Lin Lang saw his unpleasant expression as he walked in and quickly said: “Second Young Master, Madam is speaking with Miss.”

“Get out of the way!” Jiang Chao pushed Lin Lang aside. As soon as he entered, he saw Jiang Susu nestled in Xia Yan’s arms crying continuously, with Xia Yan consoling her carefully.

Hearing Jiang Susu crying made Jiang Chao even more irritated: “What are you crying about? After doing such things, making me unable to hold my head up in the Imperial Academy, now you just cry? What’s the point?”

Jiang Susu was startled and said aggrievedly: “Why are you yelling at me? Do you think I’m happy about this? My reputation is completely ruined now, and instead of comforting me, Second Brother, you come to question me. What do you mean?”

“Enough,” Xia Yan frowned and looked at Jiang Chao: “Chao’er, what’s wrong with you? Susu is your sister—how can you speak to her this way?”

Jiang Chao looked again at Jiang Susu’s tear-streaked face and his anger subsided somewhat. He sat down at a small table nearby: “I’m not blaming her, it’s just that now the whole city is talking about last night’s events. I can’t hold my head up in the Imperial Academy, Mother is called a poisonous woman, and my sister has become a laughingstock. It’s all very upsetting.”

Xia Yan gritted her teeth: “Zhou the Eldest clearly never said such things in prison. Someone must be deliberately spreading this to ruin my Susu’s reputation. What a vicious mind!”

“Who would do such a thing?” Jiang Chao said angrily: “Let me find them out, and I’ll skin them alive.”

Jiang Susu snorted coldly: “Who else could it be but that bitch Jiang Ruan?”

“Jiang Ruan?” Jiang Chao was suspicious. In his eyes, Jiang Ruan was just a young girl without a mother. Where would she get such cunning thoughts? “How could she have such ability?”

Jiang Susu’s nails dug into her palms: “You just underestimate her!”

“I also find it suspicious.” Xia Yan frowned: “She was clearly the one who fell into the water, so how did it become Susu? That handkerchief also appeared strangely. Whether it’s her or not, Jiang Ruan can’t be allowed to stay.”

She had the sensitive feeling that although Jiang Ruan seemed unremarkable, there was always something chilling about her.

“Mother must get revenge for me.” Jiang Susu cried: “She must be completely disgraced.”

“Don’t worry,” Xia Yan smiled, though her eyes held no mirth: “I’ve already told your father about this, saying your falling into the water was suspicious. These few days, you should try to please your father. I have a thousand ways to destroy this bitch. As for Prince Jinying, take advantage of these days to send a visiting card, saying you want to thank him by visiting his residence, and see what he really means.”

At the mention of Xiao Shao, Jiang Susu’s pretty face blushed as she shyly lowered her head without speaking. Jiang Chao thought: “If Prince Jinying really likes my sister, he could help me in my official career in the future.”

“Second Brother, what are you saying?” Jiang Susu was somewhat embarrassed. Xia Yan also frowned: “Why are you speaking so carelessly? Your sister’s reputation isn’t something to be discussed so casually.” After a pause, she continued: “Right now you should focus on studying. Achieving first place in the imperial examination in a few days—then Susu’s matter can be swept away, and your father will be happy too. At that time, Jiang Ruan will be just an ant for you to handle.”

Jiang Susu immediately said: “Second Brother, don’t disappoint us.”

Jiang Chao waved his hand: “Don’t worry, everything has been arranged above and below, and I’ve made full preparations. I’ll definitely get a good ranking.” He said: “At that time, I’ll rise smoothly and become a respected superior, making those inferiors unworthy even to carry my shoes!” Speaking of this, his tone became sinister, and Liu Min’s superior gaze flashed in his eyes again.

Xia Yan patted his shoulder: “My son, Mother will pray for you.”

When Lu Zhu relayed this conversation from Meiqing Garden to Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan only smiled faintly. Seeing her nonchalant manner, Lu Zhu said urgently: “Miss, the imperial examination is in a few days, and Second Young Master is so confident. If he really gets a good ranking, won’t we be in trouble?”

“He has no talent or virtue, how could he get a good ranking?” Jiang Ruan looked at the painting she had just completed and set down her brush. Lu Zhu came over to look and saw the scroll depicted a moonlit scene with bright moonlight illuminating the hills, and faint firefly lights in the forest.

“Miss painted so beautifully.” Lu Zhu praised: “Should this painting be mounted?”

“No need, send it to the Imperial Academy.” Jiang Ruan said.

“A painting?” Lu Zhu was surprised: “Miss is sending a painting? Not writing words?”

“He’ll understand.” Jiang Ruan rolled up the scroll.

Moonlight and firefly light—whose light is brighter, who illuminates more area? Fireflies can only fly a few zhang high, and their light can only illuminate a small area, but how high is the moon, and it can illuminate mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas. The higher one stands, the broader the area one can illuminate. To help more people, one needs more power. With higher position, one can act more freely.

The clever Liu Min would understand this principle.

Although Lu Zhu didn’t understand why, she still put away the scroll. Jiang Ruan whispered a few more words in her ear. Lu Zhu looked surprised but nodded and went out.

The next few days passed peacefully. On the surface, nothing special happened, except that according to capital rumors, the Emperor intended to appoint Academy Scholar Zhao as chief examiner, and Scholar Zhao was widely accepting bribes from candidates. This matter was widely rumored among the common people, and the censors submitted memorials requesting a thorough investigation. Since the annual imperial examination was of great importance, the Emperor was furious upon hearing this and suspended Scholar Zhao for investigation, ordering other examiners to supervise the examination.

When news of Scholar Zhao’s suspension spread, it was said that Jiang Quan didn’t return home for two full days. When he did return, he flew into a great rage. Meiqing Garden was in chaos for a while. Jiang Chao, in his anger, punished several maids who had made small mistakes. The Jiang residence servants lived in constant fear, while only Ruan Residence remained as peaceful as ever.

At this time, Jiang Susu sent another visiting card to Prince Jinying’s residence, wanting to personally thank Xiao Shao for his help during the Lantern Festival. But Xiao Shao wasn’t at the residence, and Jiang Susu was thoroughly scolded by an elderly steward at Prince Jinying’s residence. She returned in fury and embarrassment.

Lian Qiao and Lu Zhu couldn’t wait to imitate Jiang Susu’s angry and embarrassed appearance for Jiang Ruan to see, making even Jiang Ruan laugh heartily.

Also, Nanny Zhou’s condition had improved considerably under careful care. Fearing she might frighten the servants at Ruan Residence, Nanny Zhou wrapped a cloth strip around her eyes and could do some simple work around Ruan Residence during the day.

Jiang Ruan had always left the maids sent by Xia Yan unmanaged. Only Lian Qiao, being quick-tempered, kept those maids completely in line. Although Bai Zhi appeared gentle, she was actually quite aloof at heart and didn’t get close to people. These maids were left cold and ignored at Ruan Residence, always feeling lost. Only the one called Shu Xiang worked efficiently and cleanly with a gentle and proper temperament. Even Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi couldn’t find fault with her.

However, the rumors about Jiang Susu and Xia Yan in the capital were suppressed by rumors about the chief examiner accepting bribes, which could be considered a blessing in disguise.

On the day of the metropolitan examination, supervised by the Ministry of Rites, Jiang Chao returned home not very happy. The examiners appointed by the Emperor were all upright officials with inflexible character, leaving no room for negotiation.

Anxiously waiting until the results were announced, unexpectedly, Jiang Chao only ranked 458th, not even achieving jinshi status. Jiang Quan was so angry he locked himself in his study and refused to see anyone. The previous days of taking Jiang Chao around to socialize seemed like a huge joke. Jiang Susu was extremely disappointed. When Xia Yan wanted to console Jiang Quan, he got angry at her for the first time. Lin Lang stood aside not daring to make a sound.

Upon receiving news of his failure, Jiang Chao said nothing and left the Jiang residence. For several days he drank himself senseless in taverns, never returning home, as if he had become completely dejected.

When Lu Zhu relayed these events to Jiang Ruan, her tone was full of satisfaction: “So this Second Young Master only talks big but has no real ability. I heard he drinks every day. Today the master had him tied up and brought back to be properly disciplined with family law.”

Jiang Ruan sipped her tea: “He’s arrogant and values face more than life itself. Naturally he can’t accept failure.”

“This servant thinks Second Young Master isn’t as good as Miss. Miss is much cleverer than Second Young Master.” Lu Zhu pouted.

Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes without speaking. A few days ago, she had Lu Zhu spread rumors in the marketplace about the chief examiner accepting bribes. In her previous life, Scholar Zhao’s bribery only came to light years later. By revealing this early, the Emperor would surely change the chief examiner. And as a precaution, the replacement examiner would definitely be an upright, incorruptible official. Although Jiang Chao wrote decent essays, they were too slick. Such essays would be most detested by upright officials. Even if he didn’t fail completely, he wouldn’t get a good ranking.

Conversely, Liu Min’s upright character would definitely appeal to the chief examiner. And with the Emperor personally overseeing the palace examination, with her letters gradually changing Liu Min’s viewpoints, he would surely gain the Emperor’s favor.

Liu Min, oh Liu Min, Jiang Ruan smiled slightly—don’t let me down.

Indeed, three days later, the palace examination results were announced. The Emperor personally appointed Liu Min as zhuangyuan, Mo Cong as bangyan, and Wang Ziling as tanhua.

The top three scholars paraded through the streets on horseback. All three wore new official robes and rode fine horses, each handsome in appearance. Many boudoir daughters came out to watch. Most eye-catching was the zhuangyuan scholar—the young man had naturally delicate features, and the bright red official robe made his appearance even more gentle, with his own scholarly pride and integrity. As his white horse passed, bold women threw silk flowers.

Liu Min’s heart was still puzzled, remembering the palace examination question the Emperor had posed: “In ancient times, sages governed the country with ritual, and the country prospered. When the sages departed, the country declined. Thus governing with ritual is the right path. However, some say: though ritual is good, it’s difficult to constrain the people. Only by using law can the world follow order and achieve great peace. What do you all think?”

Upon hearing this question, he was greatly shocked—it was exactly the same as the first letter from that mysterious person. His heart immediately became chaotic as hemp. Previously he thought governing with ritual was best, but the other argued for combining the two approaches. With reason and evidence, it was convincing. Now facing this examination question again, he steadied his mind and spoke eloquently just as he had discussed with that mysterious person: “Ritual and law each have their importance. Governing with ritual brings lasting peace to the country and people; governing with law makes the country rich and people strong…”

At first he was somewhat uneasy, but as he spoke he became more fluent and passionate, casting aside all previous doubts. For the first time, he confidently displayed his aspirations.

After finishing, he gently bowed to the ruler: “This student’s humble opinion.”

All around was quiet for a long time before the person on the high seat burst into hearty laughter, clapping: “Good! Well said! That the Great Jin has such talent brings me great comfort!”

Dazedly appointed as zhuangyuan scholar, Liu Min still couldn’t quite believe it. Mo Cong came to congratulate him: “Brother Liu’s viewpoint was truly novel, quite different from Brother Liu’s usual statements.”

He politely returned the courtesy, his heart increasingly puzzled. If not knowing that the ruler had no such inclinations, he would almost think that mysterious person was the Emperor. But it definitely wouldn’t be the Emperor. Yet who exactly was it that could know the examination questions days in advance? Why help him?

Liu Min’s feelings were complex. He had lived his life honorably and had never used such dishonorable means to win anything. But when it came to this moment, he didn’t want to voluntarily reveal everything. Once he revealed everything, the person who helped him would surely be implicated, and everything he now possessed would turn to nothing. He still remembered that person’s painting—only by standing higher could one have greater ability.

The young zhuangyuan scholar basked in spring glory, but didn’t see a sinister face in the crowded masses, looking at him with venomous eyes. Jiang Chao, reeking of alcohol, stared at that lofty zhuangyuan scholar. He stood even higher than before, those proud eyes seeming unable to accommodate anyone. Jiang Chao fiercely clenched his palms. Why?

He turned and disappeared into the crowd.

On this day, in the capital of Great Jin, the streets were empty as everyone came to see the young zhuangyuan scholar’s bearing. But one person secretly entered the Imperial Academy dormitory.

Liu Min’s dormitory quarters hadn’t been cleaned yet and maintained their usual appearance. Xiao Shao, dressed in deep black brocade robes with Buddha-head azure immortal flower patterns, stood before Liu Min’s desk. He reached out and picked up a letter from the desk.

On it were only five characters: “Many thanks. Who are you?”

Xiao Shao raised an eyebrow. Mo Cong had said that Liu Min was like a completely different person from a few days ago, and his remarks during the palace examination were entirely different from his previous viewpoints. A person’s long-held views don’t change easily, and Liu Min’s personality was fundamentally unsuited for officialdom. For him to be personally selected as the top scholar was truly suspicious.

Take this letter before him, for instance—Liu Min only had a bedridden mother and no close friends at the Imperial Academy. This “Who are you?” was quite intriguing.

Xiao Shao pulled open the desk drawer. Inside was only a stack of books. He pulled out the bottom book, and from within fell a letter that had been tucked inside.

He looked at the writing on it.

It appeared to be merely an ordinary discussion of opinions between scholars. The handwriting was restrained yet sharp, without appearing smooth or slick. At first glance, it remarkably resembled that of the Eighth Prince Xuan Li.

However, this person definitely wasn’t Xuan Li.

Xiao Shao’s gaze fell on the bottom letter, which clearly read: “I once heard that sages governed the nation with ritual propriety, and the nation prospered; after the sages departed, the nation declined. Thus governing the nation with ritual propriety is the righteous path. However, some say: though ritual propriety is good, it’s difficult to bind the people; only through law can order be maintained, allowing all under heaven to follow proper tracks, achieving a golden age of peace.”

He was slightly startled, his eyes flashing with a cold gleam like winter stars.

This was the topic of the palace examination, and from the looks of it, someone had written this letter to Liu Min even before the palace examination. Who exactly was this person? Presumably someone close to the Emperor—could there be a traitor in the palace?

But Liu Min was merely a commoner scholar—what benefit would there be in helping him? Perhaps the bribery incident involving Minister Zhao from a few days ago was also related to this. Xiao Shao tucked the letter into his robes and called: “Jin Yi, Jin Er.”

“Master.” Two black-clothed figures immediately appeared in the room.

“Deploy a group of Embroidered Uniform Guards to watch the Imperial Academy and follow the message bearer,” Xiao Shao ordered. “You two monitor Liu Min.”

“Yes.”

Xiao Shao nodded. His handsome and heroic profile turned slightly, and he happened to see a painting hanging in front of Liu Min’s desk—moonlight illuminating mountains and rivers, with fireflies flickering in the dense forest.

He glanced at it once, then turned and walked out of the dormitory quarters.

The top scholar’s magnificent bearing had captivated many unmarried young ladies in their chambers throughout the Great Jin Dynasty. That evening, Jiang Ruan didn’t read any books. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi exchanged glances, and Lian Qiao said: “Today I heard many servants in the manor saying that the top scholar has exceptionally handsome features and graceful bearing—truly a man of distinguished appearance.”

Bai Zhi glared at Lian Qiao: “What nonsense are you spouting in front of Miss? Aren’t you ashamed? Don’t tell me you’re having romantic thoughts.”

“You little wretch, just watch me tear your mouth apart.” Lian Qiao’s face reddened as she laughingly scolded: “I’m happy right now. The more successful the top scholar becomes, the more dejected that person over there becomes. Thinking about this, I can’t help but feel delighted.”

“Such words shouldn’t be spoken carelessly,” Bai Zhi glanced toward the door. “Don’t forget there are several others outside—walls have ears.” She was referring to Shu Xiang and the others.

Jiang Ruan smiled faintly: “Second Brother must be quite uncomfortable now. I imagine he should go to a tavern to drink. Yesterday a new tavern opened in the eastern part of the city, right next to the capital’s largest brothel, Hundred Flowers Tower. Today happens to be the day Courtesan Mudan opens her chamber for the first time. Second Brother failed in the imperial examinations, so he’ll surely want to achieve success in romance to compensate. But Courtesan Mudan commands a high price, and though Second Brother is wealthy and generous, I wonder if the Jiang Manor has the silver to pay for Second Brother’s beauty.”

Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi exchanged glances, both seeing astonishment in each other’s eyes. For a refined young lady like Jiang Ruan to speak so frankly about brothel matters made them feel deeply uncomfortable.

Just then, Lu Zhu pushed open the door and entered. Seeing Jiang Ruan look toward her, she stepped forward and half-knelt beside Jiang Ruan, whispering: “Miss, it’s been arranged. This servant had Da Niu follow Second Young Master to the tavern and deliberately mentioned how Courtesan Mudan most loves talented scholars. I believe there shouldn’t be any mistakes.”

Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. The Hundred Flowers Tower in the capital was indeed a money pit where countless wealthy young masters had thrown away their silver. This Courtesan Mudan was also the tower’s top courtesan. Ordinarily she sold her art but not her body, possessed of both beauty and talent. Today was her opening day, and countless men hoped to become her first patron.

This Courtesan Mudan had another hobby—she loved talented scholars above all else in life. If someone was particularly talented and caught her favor, he would naturally enjoy great romantic fortune. Jiang Chao had just failed the examinations, and today he had witnessed the top scholar’s triumphant success. His heart was probably already filled with bitter resentment. Becoming Courtesan Mudan’s first patron might be the only way to make him feel somewhat better.

But though Mudan claimed to love talented scholars, she was ultimately still in the flesh trade. A single night could easily cost a thousand gold, especially the first night. So many young masters from noble families were competing for tonight—how could Jiang Chao monopolize her?

In her previous life, Courtesan Mudan’s opening night was purchased by Li Yang, the eldest son of the capital’s powerful minister Li Dong. Li Yang bought Courtesan Mudan’s first night with ten measures of bright pearls and five thousand taels of gold. Courtesan Mudan later became famous throughout the capital because of this, becoming the most expensive courtesan. In this life, she wondered whether Jiang Chao had the silver to compete with Li Yang.

Li Dong—Jiang Ruan’s smile turned cold and sinister. In her previous life, he had caused Pei’er’s death beneath him, a scene she would never forget for all eternity. Li Yang’s appearance now marked the beginning. The death knell had just begun to toll, and her revenge was finally about to commence.