Chapter 42

Chapter 42

At the Marquis residence, Lu Wei returned in her carriage. The moment she entered the courtyard, Xing Huang rushed out from the house, "Sister Lu Wei, you truly made a grand appearance today."

Lu Wei patted her chest, "Let's not mention it. If it weren't for Second Aunt thinking ahead and briefing me on all possible scenarios, teaching me how to respond, I wouldn't have been able to save face at all. I might have been completely tongue-tied in court."

Xing Huang laughed heartily, "The process doesn't matter as long as the outcome is good." Then, she propelled Lu Wei inside, "Just now, both Elder Lady and Lady sent servants to bring rewards."

Lu Wei entered the room, "Second Aunt, I didn't fail your expectations."

"Very well done. Change into something appropriate and go express your gratitude in the main chamber. If anyone asks about me, tell them that my vexation has subsided significantly since your return, and my spirits have improved. Xing Huang is attending to me as I have my soup."

"Ai."

Lu Wei swiftly changed her attire and hastened towards the main chamber.

It was bustling with activity there as well. Someone had already raced back on horseback to deliver the news, and now the assembled company was engaged in discussion. Upon hearing that the person involved had come to give thanks, they all smiled and urged her to be admitted promptly.

Lu Wei entered and bowed to Lady Hou, "I thank you, Elder Lady, for your generosity."

"Good child, rise quickly," Lady Hou called out to Lu Wei, beckoning her over. Once Lu Wei was before her, she examined her from head to toe. "How is your Second Aunt doing?"

Lu Wei replied, "In response to Elder Lady, upon hearing that the lawsuit was won, Second Aunt's pent-up frustration immediately dissipated. Her spirits have greatly improved, and she now has an appetite. Xing Huang is currently attending to her, helping her with some porridge."

"Very well, very well." Lady Hou felt reassured. "You've done a commendable job protecting your mistress today; it's only fitting that you be rewarded."

Madam Wu chimed in, "What's most impressive is how she conveyed her words so eloquently in such a challenging situation."

Lady Hou also nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it's remarkable that you spoke with clarity, preventing those despicable individuals from gaining any satisfaction."

Lu Wei: "It's all thanks to Second Aunt teaching me."

"Favorable indeed, even if it was your aunt who taught you. I heard the crowd was three deep, and I doubt I could have found my voice in that situation." Fang was a somewhat shy woman, so her words were sincere.

Zhou smiled: "That's true. In an official court, not many can express themselves clearly. Even within our own household, some servants speak as softly as mosquitoes when they reply."

Wu commented: "Our Butterfly girl knows how to handle people. Tomorrow, I'll send a few of my maidservants over to help."

Zhou chuckled: "You've got nerve. Others are the aunts taking care of their nephew's wife, but in your case, you need your nephew's wife to assist you."

Wu: "Who can blame me for being young at heart? I don't have a daughter-in-law yet, so why can't I enjoy the company of my niece-in-law?"

"Madam Elder," a maid rushed in from outside. "A message has come from the main courtyard that the Imperial Messenger and Doctor Hong from the Imperial Medical Institute will arrive soon. They ask us to make preparations, especially for Second Lady."

"Hou Madam," inquired Wu.

"It's an imperial decree. The Emperor commands that the doctor attend to Second Lady."

"I see." Hou Madam turned to Lu Wei. "Hurry back and inform your grandmother."

"Yes."

Since it was an imperial edict, there was no need to change into formal robes, and time was of the essence. Lady Hou and Lady Ning merely adjusted their attire before the imperial envoy and Doctor Hong arrived.

Lady Hou and Lady Ning personally greeted them and instructed a favored nursemaid to lead the envoy and Doctor Hong to Qixia Courtyard.

Meng Die, on the other hand, did not go out to receive them. As a patient, she should maintain the appearance of one. It was sufficient for her to listen to the imperial edict in the main hall.

Eunuch Wang hurriedly extended his hand to help Meng Die up after delivering the message. "Second Lady, please rise."

Meng Die: "Thank you, Eunuch Wang, for the tea. Please take a seat."

"Many thanks to Second Lady for your hospitality."

Back in her chamber, Meng Die settled down as Lu Wei drew the bed curtains. It was then that Doctor Hong entered from outside the courtyard to examine her pulse.

Upon taking her pulse, Doctor Hong was taken aback. Before arriving, he truly believed that Meng Die would be suffering from excessive anger affecting her heart. He never once considered the possibility that she might be feigning illness. Putting himself in her shoes, it was only natural for someone who had done good deeds to be wrongly accused and become so enraged that their health would suffer.

Yet, after his examination, Doctor Hong, with his thirty years of medical experience, swore by his professional integrity that Second Lady's pulse was incredibly normal – a clear sign of robust health.

Retreating his hand, Doctor Hong deliberated, "From your Lady's pulse, I sense a calmness. Has she taken any medicine?"

"May I not hide anything from you, sir," Lu Wei smiled. "When I returned from the court and recounted the events to my Lady, she was relieved to hear that the county magistrate had judged fairly, restoring her innocence. Her pent-up frustration dissipated significantly, and she even enjoyed two bowls of millet porridge with numerous side dishes just now."

Doctor Hong nodded, stroking his beard in understanding. "Indeed, joy invigorates the spirit. As expected."

Lu Wei echoed, "That's precisely the case."

With Meng Die in good health and Eunuch Wang having received generous tips for serving tea, the two returned to fulfill their duties.

Hearing this, the Emperor did not suspect Meng Die of feigning illness; joyous occasions always lifted one's spirits, and he knew this feeling well. "Wei Zilin indeed handles cases impartially and with calmness."

At that moment, even the Chief Eunuch, Lin Chu, couldn't help but admire Meng Die in his heart. Clever, truly clever, she had effortlessly bestowed a great favor upon Magistrate Wei. Apart from those few families, everyone was pleased with the outcome!

However, the matter was far from over. Even the less astute among the noble clans gradually perceived the depth of the maid's words. Her speech was brilliant, truly brilliant.

Starting with ancestors, she openly played the emotional card, reminding the Emperor that their forefathers had fought alongside his to conquer the land, establishing a shared history. The mention of "basking in the Emperor's grace" was an expression of gratitude for his care and protection.

After the gratitude, came the declaration of loyalty. First, she expressed loyalty to the throne, then shifted to personal flattery of the Emperor himself. Each statement dovetailed seamlessly into the next—how could anyone resist such a display, or not feel delighted?

For a moment, it seemed as if all the nobles had suddenly mastered the art of diplomacy, finding it much more effective to foster emotional connections with the emperor.

Some of the more astute ones even reconsidered their attitudes toward scholars, no longer nitpicking at them. They began to contemplate the possibility of forming marital alliances with scholarly families. With so many children in their households, marrying someone less articulate wouldn't be much of a loss. If they were fortunate enough to wed someone both capable and articulate, it would be a tremendous gain.

Many scholars found this change in behavior peculiar. The way those nobles looked at them was akin to eyeing a piece of succulent meat.

Amidst this somewhat "eerie" atmosphere, spring drew near, and one night, apricot blossoms adorned every street and alley, filling the entire capital city with a sweet fragrance.

Under this fragrant air, the Imperial Academy finally reopened its doors after being closed for over a month. Bureaucrats carried the rankings list, posting it around the academy, the paper imbued with the scent of apricot flowers.

Servants from various households, inn attendants, relatives and acquaintances of the candidates, along with various hangers-on, swarmed forward. Soon, ecstatic voices echoed, "He's made it! My master has made it!"

"Our young master has been successful."

...

Some rejoiced while others despaired. For some to be successful, others inevitably failed. The crowd beneath the list was in chaos. A nimble servant managed to push his way to the front, diligently searching for his master's name from the bottom up, as instructed.

And soon enough, he found his master's prominent name at the two hundred and eighty-second position: Zhuang Pengfei of Jiujiang, Zhuang Ming, in Jiangxi Province.

Had it not been for the crowd tightly surrounding him, the servant boy would have leaped with joy. He verified the news again and, assured that he hadn't made a mistake, hastily squeezed his way out, even losing one of his shoes in the process. However, he was too eager to attend to such trifles as he rushed to a nearby tavern to announce the good news.

Zhuang Ming and his wife, as well as Hu Baoguì and his spouse, were in a private room. The servant burst into the chamber, wildly gesticulating. "Mister has succeeded! Mister has succeeded!"

The occupants of the room were instantly overjoyed. Hu Baoguì clasped his hands towards Zhuang Ming. "Brother Zhuang, congratulations!"

Zhuang Ming responded with a silly grin. "Congratulations to us all."

Hu Baoguì hurriedly added, "Quick, send someone to deliver the news to the Marquis residence."

Soon, Meng Die also received the news.

Lu Wei remarked, "With Lord Zhuang's success in the provincial examinations, Second Aunt can finally rest assured, right?"

Meng Die exhaled deeply and smiled. "How could she be at ease? There's still the palace examination."

Xue Qing chimed in, "In the palace examination, there's no such thing as failing. Even if one doesn't rank high, they will still be granted the title of jinshi."

Meng Die smiled, of course, she knew that. She was well aware that Uncle Zhuang's composition would surely earn him the title of jinshi. However, she wanted the emperor to read his work.

Yet the Emperor only reads the top ten, or at most the top fifteen essays. Uncle Zhuang's composition would never make it into that list. If she wanted the Emperor to notice, she had to find another way.

After some careful consideration, Meng Die promptly wrote two letters. One was an ordinary letter, simply a familial inquiry. Xing Huang, who ground the ink, was puzzled—why did these characters seem different from Second Aunt's usual handwriting?

The second letter was thick, packed with detailed explanations of various issues. At the end, Meng Die even added a "read and destroy" note. As Xing Huang read, the handwriting returned to the style her Second Aunt normally used.

Having composed both letters and sealed them carefully with wax, Meng Die instructed, "Inform Nurse Fan to invite Aunt Zhuang for a visit tomorrow."

"Yes, Miss."

Upon receiving the news, Aunt Zhuang fulfilled her promise and visited the next day.

Meng Die commented, "Aunt, you look radiant."

Aunt Zhuang gently touched her face, her eyes curving into a warm smile. "Really?"

"Indeed, it's evident that something joyful is happening at your home." Meng Die took out two letters. "Aunt, please ensure that you deliver these two letters personally to Uncle. Start with the thicker one."

Aunt Zhuang received the envelopes solemnly. "Alright, I'll definitely give them to him myself. But it will have to wait until evening; he's currently studying etiquette at the Ministry of Rites."

Zhuang Ming, along with the newly crowned scholars, had their first task after passing the exams to learn the etiquette for an audience with the Emperor at the Ministry of Rites. On the day of the palace examination, any misbehavior before the Emperor could lead to the revocation of one's scholarly title; naturally, the officials from the Ministry of Rites wouldn't escape punishment either.

After a day of studying etiquette at the ministry, Zhuang Ming returned home in a daze, sitting in a carriage. Before his aunt could speak, he asked, "Aunt, why did my cousin suddenly ask you to visit? Was there something urgent?"

Mrs. Zhuang replied, "Your cousin gave you two letters and said to open the thicker one first."

"Alright."

Mrs. Zhuang continued, "Go freshen up and have your meal first. It'll take you a while to read such a thick letter, and by then, the food will be cold."

"Very well." Believing that one should take others' advice to thrive, especially when it comes from one's spouse, Zhuang Ming nodded in agreement.

After the couple finished their meal, Mrs. Zhuang attended to her duties, while Zhuang Ming retreated to his study, eagerly delving into the thick letter. As he read, his expression grew increasingly grave. Upon finishing the first letter, he promptly proceeded to open the second one.

The letter was perfectly ordinary, filled with routine inquiries typically exchanged among relatives. Yet, it was the handwriting that caused the corners of Zhuang Ming's lips to curl up slightly.

In his youth, while studying under his uncle at the Meng residence, he naturally learned to write in the style of Meng Tingyi. Not only he, but also the Meng family's brothers, including the subsequent generation like Meng Die, all studied and imitated Meng Tingyi's calligraphy.

Meng Tingyi's calligraphy had a distinctive trait, particularly in the "ting" character within his name, where the horizontal stroke at the end of the "yan" component often had a subtle upward curve at its tail. Unfamiliar observers might not notice this quirk, but those well-versed in his handwriting could distinguish it instantly.

This habit was known and practiced by everyone in the Meng family, and as the nephew, Zhuang Ming naturally knew it too.

Sliding the thin letter into a special case reserved for family correspondence, Zhuang Ming then unfolded the thick one. He ground ink, moistened his writing brush, and dipped it into the inkwell. With fluid movements, he began jotting down the key points from the thick letter onto separate sheets of paper, occasionally making a few alterations. At first glance, it seemed like a rough draft.

Upon closer inspection, one could discern that Zhuang Ming's handwriting in this instance resembled but was not entirely identical to his usual script.

It wasn't until the wee hours of the night that Zhuang Ming finally finished copying. He reviewed the thick letter once more, ensuring that every sheet was accounted for. Without any hesitation, he placed it into an unused charcoal brazier and lit it with a candle flame.

In just moments, the thick letter turned to ashes. Zhuang Ming exhaled deeply, tidied up his desk, and stored today's "draft" separately in a box. Only then did he retire for the night.

During the day, Zhuang Ming dedicated himself to learning etiquette at the Ministry of Rites, while at night he returned home to review his draft, occasionally jotting down notes.

Time flew by, and before he knew it, the crucial palace examination was upon him. Dawn had yet to break when Zhuang Ming donned the attire prepared by the Ministry and headed there to assemble with the other candidates. Surprisingly, he wasn't feeling overly nervous.

What was there to be nervous about? Among the two hundred and ninety candidates of the Jiaowu Class, he ranked two hundred and eighty-second. Most attention would naturally be on the top few. All he needed to do was follow the crowd and avoid mistakes.

Instead of dwelling on anxiety, he found it more beneficial to silently recite in his mind the key points his niece had written for him.

Accompanied by the ministry officials, they entered the palace and bowed three times, prostrating themselves nine times in the grand hall. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, a deep male voice echoed, "Rise."

Zhuang Ming followed the crowd in rising to his designated seat for the examination, and only then did he begin to feel nervous, his heart pounding in his throat. Heaven bless, he prayed, his niece must have guessed the questions correctly.

Unfolding the exam paper, his heart, which had been hanging on the edge, dropped back into place with a thud. Hehehe, his niece's predictions were spot on. After all, which emperor would not aspire to a prosperous and wealthy nation? All the questions, at their core, revolved around these four words.

Taking a deep breath, Zhuang Ming began to write energetically, first drafting his answers and then refining them before copying them onto the official answer sheet.

The emperor watched the new scholars, nodding with satisfaction. Since his ascension to the throne, he had placed great emphasis on education. Schools were established in every province, county, and district. As a result, the number of candidates taking the imperial examinations had increased annually over the years.

Surveying the new scholars, the emperor then joined the ministers to discuss state affairs. Every day, numerous incidents occurred within and outside the capital, all eventually reaching the capital city and the emperor's desk. Based on their urgency and importance, the emperor and his ministers began to issue directives one by one.

Soon, noon arrived, marking the end of the writing time. Regardless of whether one had finished or not, all exam papers had to be submitted. If you handed it in, you might end up with a lower rank as a fellow scholar; but if you didn't, well, it seemed you weren't too keen on your scholarly fame.

Zhuang Ming submitted his paper calmly, and then they were led to a side palace for a meal and to wait for results.

Meanwhile, the emperor dined with the court officials. During this interval, the eunuchs began the process of anonymizing the scripts. Originally, the imperial examination did not involve this step, but during the previous dynasty's later years, when factional strife was intense and academic cliques dominated, disputes over the top three positions became so frequent that anonymization eventually became necessary. The practice was continued by the founding emperor of the current dynasty from the very first imperial examination.

After the eunuchs completed the anonymization, the emperor and the ministers finished their meals and started grading the papers. Typically, this task fell to the four cabinet members, the six departmental ministers, the two chief censors of the supervisory office, and the grand judge of the Supreme Court.

There were almost three hundred papers in total, but fortunately, each was only around two thousand characters long. With everyone working together, all experienced in the task, they made quick progress through the pile.

Soon, ten outstanding compositions reached the emperor's desk. He unfolded each one, nodding in approval. This year's batch of scholars was impressive; their writings were filled with substance rather than empty words.

Choosing his favorite first, he then arranged the rest according to the ministers' recommendations, unless he particularly disliked an article, in which case he would not easily defy the face of his trusted advisors.

With all preparations complete, the emperor felt relieved: "I was initially worried that this year's exam candidates might be mere pretenders, but it seems they are all genuinely talented. It appears the competition this time was exceptionally fierce."

The chief minister, Qiao Wanming, commented, "Now that peace reigns across the land, and there have been bountiful harvests for years, people have surplus food. Schools abound in every region, and many are devoted to learning. Naturally, there has been an increase in the number of scholars with exceptional skills."

The emperor appreciated these words: "The compositions you, my lords, have selected are truly the best among the best." Then, he changed the subject: "Are there any other remarkable entries among the remaining papers?"

This inquiry is a customary practice. There are some candidates who, though not particularly skilled in calligraphy, present novel perspectives. It would be regrettable if their work does not make it into the top ten and thus remains unseen by the emperor. Hence, the emperor always asks about such cases during each imperial examination.

The Prime Minister shook his head. With nearly three hundred scrolls to assess, he hadn't read each one thoroughly. Among those that had landed on his desk, two had already secured positions within the top ten. Truly original perspectives were scarce.

The Minister of Justice, Pei Ji Huan, hesitated before speaking, then spoke only to hesitate again. Eventually, he said, "I have an essay to present before Your Majesty. Its style and composition are unremarkable, but its perspective is unique."

"Oh?" The emperor's interest piqued. "Bring it for me to see."

Pei Ji Huan promptly submitted an essay, which Lin Chu gracefully received and presented to the emperor.

The emperor perused the lines and immediately chuckled. "The style and composition are mediocre? It seems you hold this person in high regard, Minister Pei."

Pei Ji Huan was straightforward and admitted it openly. "Your Majesty's wisdom shines through."

"The essay you submitted was of poor quality?" asked the Minister of Rites, Ye Sihe, with curiosity.

Pei Ji Huan smiled. "There was no style to speak of."

The corners of the officials' mouths twitched collectively. No style? How did this man pass the imperial examinations? Could it truly be due to exceptional ideas? The crowd suddenly became intrigued.

The emperor, who had been reading the essays with a playful smile, gradually sobered up, his expression becoming more serious. After finishing one particular composition, he lowered his gaze into deep contemplation before tearing open the anonymous cover. " Summon Zhuang Ming."

The ministers were taken aback, not expecting the emperor to call for an interview directly.

Zhuang Ming re-entered the Wenhua Palace from the waiting chamber, bowing deeply three times and prostrating himself nine times. "This humble servant pays respects to the emperor."

The emperor replied, "In your essay, you mentioned that commerce could enrich a nation. Do you truly believe that trade can make a country prosperous? In the past, the Zhao Kingdom engaged in extensive trade, yet it ended up with limited territory and was frequently invaded by foreign tribes. Year after year, they had to pay tribute to their enemies, even losing their own emperor to captivity. Clearly, excessive reliance on trade can undermine a nation's foundation."

Zhuang Ming steadied his pounding heart, reminding himself to stay calm. His niece had accurately predicted the topics, and the emperor's question aligned with her forecast. He had prepared for this moment and knew how to respond.

Somewhat comforting himself inwardly, to onlookers, it appeared as if he was pondering how to respond.

Zhuang Ming: "Your Majesty, the merchant system I speak of is entirely different from that which Zhao Country promotes. In Zhao, merchants solely aim for profit, buying and selling to exploit gains, and they are truly parasites to the nation. The merchant system I propose for enriching our country is not such; it is rooted in the exchange of goods, with the purpose of diversifying the people's resources."

Zhuang Ming: "Oh? Please elaborate on this exchange of goods and enrichment of resources."

Zhuang Ming bowed again, "Yes, Your Majesty, I myself come from a family of merchants..."

The moment he uttered his first sentence, many in the grand hall, including the emperor, furrowed their brows.

In this dynasty, merchants' sons are not forbidden from taking the imperial examinations, but many unspoken rules still prevail. Forming alliances with merchant families would invite scorn, let alone if one were a merchant's son oneself.

Even if one were to achieve top honors on the golden list, their future prospects would be severely limited. It is challenging to gain significant favor from the court and truly elevate one's social standing. It usually takes until the next generation for the stigma of being a merchant's son to fade.

Unaware of the emperor's and officials' reactions, Zhuang Ming remembered Meng Die's advice. She had told him that his merchant background could not be concealed indefinitely. It was better to be open about it than to hide. If he performed well in today's audience and answered the emperor's questions satisfactorily, he might earn himself a reputation as an upright gentleman.

With Meng Die's earnest instructions in mind, Zhuang Ming replied smoothly, "…As a child, I accompanied my father and grandfather on a trading journey where we happened upon a place. After a rain shower, the land was abundant with delicacies. Locals and outsiders alike were free to gather them. My father and grandfather purchased the excess provisions from villagers and transported them to Jiangzhe, where people had never tasted such delights and eagerly bought them."

"Humble as I am, I believe that transporting surplus goods from one region to another, where they are not produced, promotes the exchange of goods and enriches the lives of the people. The abundant regions can earn more silver to prosper, while those without such resources gain access to new items, making their lives more abundant."

Unbeknownst to others, the emperor's furrowed brow gradually smoothed out, his expression enigmatic, leaving onlookers unable to discern his thoughts.

The assembled officials also lowered their eyes in deep contemplation. What Zhuang Ming had said was not a groundbreaking concept, but many had indeed overlooked it. Business and money had been intertwined since ancient times, with commerce conducted primarily for profit – a deeply ingrained notion.

They had entirely forgotten that trade originally stemmed from bartering, exchanging goods to fulfill mutual needs. Stripping away the metaphorical veil of greed, the essence of business was not as despicable as it seemed.

Zhuang Ming dared not lift his head, kneeling obediently. However, his toes inside the boots fidgeted restlessly.

"Is transporting abundant goods from one region to another where they are scarce inspired by the way of heaven, which dictates taking from surplus to alleviate shortages?"

Upon the Emperor's pronouncement, a mental symphony of firecrackers exploded in Zhuang Ming's mind. He was now nothing but impressed; his niece had, once again, made an astute prediction.

Zhuang Ming was perplexed, for in this dynasty, due to the previous dynasty's scholar-officials who had led the nation astray with their rigid adherence to Confucianism, the founder, the Great Ancestor, established from the onset that there would be no sole exaltation of Confucianism. Instead, the governance of the people was carried out through the thorough application of Legalist principles. As for officials attending to their respective duties, they adhered to the Daoist philosophy of wuwei (non-action) and letting nature take its course. The ideas of loyalty to the monarch, love for the country, and the divine right of kingship, however, were rooted in Confucian thought.

To the Great Ancestor, the origin of an ideology mattered little; what counted was its benefit to the nation and its people. Thus, in these years under the Great Yi Dynasty, the landscape has flourished with the vitality of the past era of contending schools of thought, as various doctrines emerged like sprouts after the spring rain.

The current emperor adheres to the policies of the founding emperor, and it is not known that he favors any particular family. Zhuang Ming does not understand why the emperor asks this question, but it does not matter, he has an answer.

"Your Majesty, I did not derive my understanding from the Tao Te Ching. The way of heaven, as it is written, diminishes excess to replenish shortages. 'Diminish' here signifies moderation, preventing anything from becoming overly abundant. The way of business that I speak of, however, primarily emphasizes prosperity in a particular place or with a particular commodity. Only when there is abundance can it be transported elsewhere, which is fundamentally distinct from the concept of diminishing excess."

"Your humble servant has studied the I Ching, and it teaches that when one is confronted with adversity, one must adapt; through change, one finds understanding, and with understanding, longevity. Transferring the abundance of one region to where it is lacking is the embodiment of this adaptability, a lesson I have gleaned from the ancient text."

As soon as Zhuang Ming finished speaking, the words "secure" seemed to echo in the hearts of every high-ranking official. This newly crowned scholar's career in the bureaucracy was now firmly on track, as long as he didn't make any outrageous missteps in the future.

"Indeed, a wise adaptation leads to progress, and progress ensures longevity." The emperor nodded repeatedly. "You may leave for now." Lowering his gaze, the emperor altered Zhuang Ming's ranking from two hundred seventy-eighth to one hundred and second in the imperial examination.

In the year of Gengwei, the top three ranks of the imperial examination, known as the First Class, were filled with the Zongyuan (first place), Yuanyang (second place), and Tanhua (third place), thus conferring the title of Jinshi upon them.

The second class, consisting of ninety-nine members, is granted the title of Juren, conferring the status of a scholar.

The remaining one hundred ninety-six candidates were ranked third, and they were conferred the honor of being granted the same status as Jinshi graduates.

Zhuang Ming could hardly believe his ears. As the two hundred and eighty-second candidate in the metropolitan examination, he was undoubtedly bound for the rank of jinshi. Yet, he had unexpectedly landed a position in the second class, even if it was the very last spot—still, it was the second class!

My niece was indeed correct in her assessment. She predicted that if His Majesty was pleased with his performance in the imperial audience, he would confer upon him the title of a jinshi scholar. As it turned out, my niece has an uncanny ability to foresee events.

The top scholars, including the Zhuangyuan (the top scorer), Bangyan (the second scorer), and Tanhua (the third scorer), parade through the streets on horseback, enjoying the utmost glory. Following this grand display comes the grand banquet at the Qionglin Garden.

In an effort to demonstrate the emperor's admiration for talent and his respect for scholars, the Imperial Jade Forest Banquet and the Martial Arts Exhibition were both held in the royal garden within the palace walls.

The Emperor merely made a brief appearance at the beginning of the banquet before departing, leaving the newly crowned scholars feeling restrained in his absence.

As soon as the Emperor left, the young scholars immediately formed small groups, engaging in discussions about literature and philosophy, admiring the scenery, or engaging in casual conversation to forge connections.

Zhuang Ming, having been summoned alone to the Wenhua Hall, drew particular attention. Several scholars surrounded him, attempting to establish ties and subtly inquire about the events that transpired within the hall.

Unbeknownst to them, the Emperor was well aware of everything that occurred during the Qionglin Feast. The previous afternoon, a rain shower had descended, and the Empress Dowager, captivated by the view of apricot blossoms in the rain, caught a slight chill. Consequently, both the Emperor and the Empress were currently at the Cining Palace, attending to her.

Aware of the significance of today's date, the Empress Dowager inquired first, "It's the Banquet of the Precious Forest today. How have those newly crowned scholars fared?"

Lin Chu replied, "I humbly report to the Empress Dowager, they have composed numerous poems, all praising the exquisite beauty of the imperial garden and its blossoms."

Knowing that the Empress Dowager had little interest in poetry, the Emperor casually asked, "And how about Zhuang Ming? What about him?"

Lin Chu hesitated for a moment, "Your Majesty, you are well aware of his literary prowess."

Upon hearing this, the Emperor chuckled, "Indeed."

The Empress observed that the Empress Dowager seemed intrigued. "From His Majesty's tone, it seems that Zhuang Ming's poetry and prose are mediocre? Yet, His Majesty remembers him—does he possess any exceptional qualities?"

The Emperor nodded. "His writing style is unremarkable, but his viewpoints are both sharp and unconventional. He believes that commerce can enrich a nation."

The Empress Dowager asked, "How did he come to such a notion?"

"Mother, he is born of a merchant family," the Emperor promptly recounted what Zhuang Ming had said in the Hall of Cultural Brilliance to the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager nodded. "There seems to be some logic in his thinking."

Emperor: "My son also finds some merit in this."

Empress Dowager: "He grew up accompanying his father and grandfather in their merchant ventures. It's likely that his family intended him for commerce. Why did he take up studying?"

The Emperor immediately turned to Lin Chu; he doubted that other newly-ascended scholars wouldn't be curious about this today.

Lin Chu: "Your Majesty the Empress Dowager, Scholar Zhuang mentioned that his uncle is a scholar."

Empress Dowager: "Nephews often resemble their uncles. That's quite normal."

The Emperor chuckled and turned his gaze back to Lin Chu. "You seem more reserved today. Normally, when I ask you one question, you'd give me ten answers. Why are you only replying with one sentence now?"

Lin Chu was speechless.

The Empress burst into laughter, and the Empress Dowager also smiled at Lin Chu. "Old thing, is there something wrong with that Scholar Zhuang's family?"

"Your Majesty Empress Dowager is wise," Lin Chu promptly recounted what Zhuang Ming had said at the Qionglin Banquet. "During the banquet, someone asked Zhuang Ming why he studies. He replied that his maternal uncle was the second rank calligrapher of the Gengwu year, and his elder cousin is the top scholar of the Xinwu year, Meng Changsheng."

The second rank calligrapher of the Gengwu year might not have been memorable to many new scholars unless they were currently prominent officials. Zhuang Ming couldn't directly mention his uncle's name, so he brought up Meng Changsheng, a first-class champion whom no scholar would forget. Since they were peers, Lin Chu could address him by name.

The mere mention of Meng Changsheng's name caused most of the people surrounding Zhuang Ming to scatter instantly, leaving only one fellow examinee behind.

Zhuang Ming didn't beat around the bush: "Brother Xue, aren't you afraid of being implicated?"

"It's already a settled matter; how can there be any talk of implication? Besides, I am friends with Brother Xiaoxiong, and I recognize only him."

Meng Changsheng's words were clear and straightforward. Zhuang Ming raised his wine cup: "This younger brother pays his respects with a toast to Elder Brother."

While Zhuang Ming gained a like-minded friend through his honesty, the emperor, empress dowager, and empress fell into a brief silence after hearing Lin Chu's account.

For a moment, the Empress Dowager sighed softly. "So it's the nephew of Minister Meng, no wonder."

The Empress glanced at the Emperor. "Their whole family is well-versed in literature. Didn't a few ruffians recently sue Marquis Yongyi's estate? That woman was from the Meng family."

The Emperor responded, "Oh? From the Meng family, you say?"

The Empress continued, "Minister Meng's eldest granddaughter married Marquis Yongyi's second grandson."

The Emperor fell silent for a moment before sighing again. "Their family indeed upholds a most impeccable reputation. Minister Meng knows how to raise children; even a woman of humble origins can distinguish right from wrong, and that Zhuang Ming is also an upright individual. It's just that they have a troublesome younger brother." Much like his own troublesome younger sibling.

The Empress Dowager let out a long sigh. "One cannot choose their siblings; otherwise, he wouldn't have severed ties with the family when the division of properties occurred back then."

The Emperor replied, "Mother still remembers?"

"Of course, how could I forget?" The Empress Dowager harrumphed. "Because of that incident, Minister Meng, despite his outstanding accomplishments, was deliberately kept from promotion by the previous emperor for six years."

The Emperor said, "None of them had it easy. They say that in cases of treason, nine generations of the family should be implicated. Well, Prince Qi is still my brother; I am also firmly within that category of nine generations."

The Empress Dowager's anger dissipated, and she chuckled. "Your Majesty has a unique way of looking at things."

The Empress also smiled. "Mother Empress, I believe His Majesty is showing his appreciation for talent. Indeed, the entire family is quite capable."

Amidst the harmonious atmosphere in Cining Palace.

Just two days after the Qionglin Feast, the Emperor suddenly issued an edict. The county magistrate of Linze was granted permission to retire due to illness, and Meng Changsheng was appointed as the new county magistrate, to assume office immediately upon receiving the decree.

"Second Lady, Second Lady!" Xing Huang dashed over quickly. "The young servant from the second gate just conveyed a message that His Majesty has appointed Master as the county magistrate of Linze."

Meng Die shot up from her seat. "Is it true?"

"Indeed, I asked three times in a row."

Meng Die was overjoyed; it had finally come to fruition: "The heavens have been kind to me. My efforts have not been in vain."

Xing Huang helped Meng Die sit down: "Why don't you mention how many sleepless nights Second Lady has endured? Countless candles have been burnt to the wick, and now she can finally rest, right?"

Lu Wei chimed in: "Now that Master's restoration is complete, the glory days of the Meng family are just around the corner. Second Lady should take a well-deserved rest."

Meng Die replied: "Rest, I will certainly rest. Tonight, after dinner, I'll go straight to bed, alright?"

Lu Wei revealed a contented smile. "This is more like it."

Meng Die smiled, even more delighted when she thought of her father's new post. Linze County fell under the jurisdiction of Ganzhou, and Meng Changsheng's immediate superior was none other than Meng Tingyi. With the son serving under the father, achieving notable accomplishments in his governance would hardly be a challenge.

Furthermore, Linze County, despite being on the border, is uncommonly prosperous. Its famous Linze dates are even a tribute to the imperial court. Such a location can by no means be considered inferior to the wealthy regions of Jiangzhe. It's a rare and lucrative post. Whenever there's a vacancy, officials in the capital must engage in intense competition before a suitable candidate can be chosen.

Bestowing such a splendid residence upon Meng Changsheng, anyone with a modicum of intelligence could readily deduce that the emperor held no disdain for the Meng family. On the contrary, they were favorably esteemed in his heart. Even if they had been sent far away for the time being, it was only a matter of time before the emperor would recall them.

In the evening, when paying respects, Lady Wu took the lead and said, "I've heard that Father-in-law has been appointed as the County Magistrate? That's such wonderful news. Eldest Sister, Butterfly girl, I must offer my congratulations to you both."

Madam Zhou chimed in, "I heard it's the Lingze County Magistrate. Is that the Lingze known for the small jujubes your cousin uncle sent?"

Madam Wu responded, "It doesn't matter where exactly. Anyway, this is excellent news."

Madam Ning beamed with joy. "Yes, it's that Lingze."

Lady Hou waved Meng Die over to sit beside her and took her hand. "Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Father-in-law has finally seen his fortunes turn."

Meng Die nodded. "Grandmother, Mother, Father's successful reinstatement is all thanks to His Majesty's boundless imperial grace. There's no way to adequately repay such kindness. I wish to offer a month of free porridge at several city gates as a small gesture to alleviate His Majesty's concerns."

Lady Hou: "You've thought this through. Let's proceed as you suggest."

With Lady Hou's approval, Meng Die promptly instructed Nurse Fan to carry out the plan. She asked her to add just a pinch of salt to the porridge, making it more considerate for those in poverty. The bone soup was omitted, as it would draw too much attention.