I started out with seven husbands, and I worked hard to support my family while crying.

Chapter 551: Never Accept Bribes

After introducing the martial arts test, Fang Xiaoxiao paused slightly, picked up the teacup on the table next to her, took a sip of tea to moisten her throat, and then continued, "Next is the written test."

The written exam was relatively simpler, mainly consisting of three parts: composing poetry, matching couplets, and painting.

"To compose a poem, everyone needs to create a poem within a specified time based on the topic given on site. The poem should be original, metrically correct, and well-written."

As Fang Xiaoxiao spoke, she picked up the calligraphy brush on the table and waved it in the air a few times, as if she were writing poetry.

"The challenge of matching couplets tests everyone's reaction speed and literary skills. We will provide the first line, and each gentleman must come up with a suitable second line in a short time."

The painting activity, on the other hand, involves everyone creating artwork on the spot, with no restrictions on the theme, to see whose painting has the most artistic conception and expressive power.

"Here, I would like to give special introduction to our judges for this competition."

Fang Xiaoxiao smiled and said, a hint of smugness in her eyes. As she spoke, the former general Long Jinyan, the former young prime minister Murong Changqing, Ouyang Tuoba, Zhou Wenjian, and He Jinnian walked onto the stage from backstage one by one.

They were all imposing and dignified, with Long Jinyan dressed in military uniform, looking majestic and awe-inspiring.

Murong Changqing wore a long robe and had a refined and scholarly air.

Ouyang Tuoba had an unruly smile on his lips, exuding a dashing air;

Zhou Wenjian had a serious expression and sharp eyes;

He Jinnian, on the other hand, was debonair and elegant.

"These five judges were all invited by me at great expense. They all have extremely high attainments and prestige in their respective fields."

They will be responsible for scoring and judging all aspects of the competition.

Fang Xiaoxiao’s voice was firm and strong, “Finally, the one with the highest score will have the opportunity to be chosen by the princess herself. The princess will choose the best husband who can spend her life with her according to her own wishes.”

As soon as Fang Xiaoxiao finished speaking, a burst of enthusiastic applause and discussion erupted from the audience.

Everyone's eyes darted back and forth between the five judges and Li Wan'er, filled with anticipation for the upcoming competition.

Li Wan'er sat below the stage, feeling both nervous and expectant, a glint of light in her eyes as she seemed to be dreaming of her future husband.

Li Renyi stood in the crowd below the stage, slightly turned his head, and looked through the bustling crowd to Li Wan'er on the stage, who was covered by a curtain.

A complex emotion flashed in his eyes—a mixture of nostalgia, resentment, and an indescribable bitterness.

When he turned his gaze to the contestants on the stage, who were eager to compete, his brows furrowed involuntarily, and a strange feeling of discomfort welled up in his heart. It was as if, in his mind, these people were not worthy of Li Wan'er, who had once been so fond of him.

However, Li Renyi quickly shook his head, putting these chaotic thoughts aside.

He reminded himself that his relationship with Li Wan'er was now a thing of the past, and he had more important things to do, which was to place bets and make money on the spot.

Thinking of this, a sly glint flashed in his eyes, and the corners of his mouth turned up slightly, revealing a confident smile.

He pushed through the crowd, found a relatively conspicuous spot, and began to shout loudly: "Come on, ladies and gentlemen, don't miss this opportunity!"

"Bet one, pay out ten! Let's see who comes out on top in this competition and wins the princess's heart!"

Li Renyi's shouts quickly attracted the attention of many people, who gathered around. Some looked curious, while others were eager to place their bets.

"I bet on Zhang Pangzi, the son of the Minister of Rites. He is exceptionally talented and will surely stand out in the written examination!"

A richly dressed young man spoke loudly.

"I think Wang Badan, the son of the Minister of Revenue, is also quite good. He is strong and healthy, and he will definitely pass the martial arts test without any problem!"

The other person retorted, not to be outdone.

Meanwhile, the competition on stage officially began.

Each contestant showcased their unique talents, with some demonstrating their writing skills in the written test, creating beautiful poems and lyrics.

Some demonstrated their superb martial arts skills by wielding swords and knives during the martial arts test.

Their brilliant performance drew a burst of excitement from the audience, with many wealthy people sitting in the front row, clapping and cheering.

These wealthy people were naturally trying to curry favor with the powerful and influential, hoping to establish a connection with Prince Rong's family through this competition.

Many people even brought their female relatives with them. Their purpose was obvious: if their daughters could catch the eye of some young master, that would be wonderful.

On stage, Fang Xiaoxiao looked at the lively scene below the stage and a satisfied smile appeared on her face.

She turned her head and looked at Long Jinyan, Murong Changqing and the others, her eyes showing a hint of seriousness, and instructed them: "You guys must score seriously and never accept bribes."

If we're going to collect, we must collect a lot; collecting too little is pointless and just makes us look bad. We can't afford to be a laughingstock in this competition!

Upon hearing this, Long Jinyan couldn't help but burst into laughter. He patted his chest and said, "Don't worry, Xiaoxiao, don't you trust me, Long Jinyan, to do things?"

I am absolutely fair and impartial, and will never favor either side!

Murong Changqing nodded slightly, a helpless smile on his face, and said, "Xiao Xiao, please stop teasing us. We know what's important."

Sure enough, as soon as Fang Xiaoxiao finished giving her instructions, Zhang Pangzi came over with his servants.

Zhang Pangzi was dressed in a magnificent brocade robe, wearing a jade crown, and had a confident smile on his face.

He walked up to Fang Xiaoxiao, cupped his hands slightly, and said, "Miss Fang, I have long admired your name. It is a great honor to participate in this competition today."

I hope Ms. Fang and all the judges will give me their support.

As he spoke, he gave a wink, and a servant behind him stepped forward, carrying an exquisite wooden box filled with gold and silver jewels.

Fang Xiaoxiao looked at the wooden box, raised her eyebrows slightly, and revealed a playful smile on her face, saying, "Young Master Zhang, what does this mean?"

"Our Lingxi Pavilion is organizing this competition in a fair, just, and transparent manner. Are you trying to bribe us?"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Pangzi blushed slightly and quickly said, "Miss Fang, you misunderstand. This is just a small token of my appreciation. I hope Miss Fang and the judges will accept it."

I, Zhang Pangzi, participated in the competition based on my genuine talent and skills; I had absolutely no intention of bribery.

Seeing Zhang Pangzi's nervous expression, Fang Xiaoxiao couldn't help but laugh and said, "Alright, Young Master Zhang, I was just joking with you."

Don't worry about the competition; we will definitely score fairly.

Hearing this, Zhang Pangzi breathed a sigh of relief and said gratefully, "Thank you, Miss Fang. I'll go prepare for the competition now."

After saying this, he led his servants away.

Watching Zhang Pangzi's departing figure, Fang Xiaoxiao shook her head, a helpless smile on her face.