I traveled back to the Qin Dynasty, and the First Emperor begged me to become his empress.

Chapter 345 Top Scholar

Chapter 345 Top Scholar

Everyone waited quietly for the arrival of the King of Qin. For many present, this palace examination might be their only precious opportunity in their lives to see the King of Qin up close. After all, once they entered officialdom, they would be assigned to different places and might end up in some remote corner, making it virtually impossible to catch a glimpse of the King of Qin again. Therefore, despite their trepidation, everyone couldn't suppress their eagerness and longing to see the King of Qin as soon as possible.

Before long, the King of Qin strode in with a strong and powerful gait, his imposing figure inspiring awe. Upon seeing him, the crowd hurriedly bowed respectfully and shouted in unison, "Your Majesty!"

The King of Qin sat firmly on his high throne, his gaze sharp and piercing as he looked down upon the numerous students below. His voice, booming like a bell, proclaimed: "Today, I will test you with the question: 'The Xiongnu have repeatedly invaded the border regions of my Great Qin, burning, killing, and looting, committing all sorts of atrocities. What do you think is the best course of action?'"

Upon hearing the King of Qin's words, a hint of surprise appeared on everyone's faces. However, they quickly regained their composure, picked up the brushes that had been prepared on the table, dipped them in ink, and began to write furiously. Each person was completely absorbed, carefully writing down their answers on paper according to their deepest thoughts and insights. For a moment, the only sound in the entire hall was the soft scratching of brushes against paper.

The imperial examination finally ended, and numerous candidates handed in their papers and poured out of the examination hall like a tide. However, the end of the examination did not mean that everything was settled, because what followed was a long and agonizing period—waiting for the final results to be announced.

Chen Xuan, standing in the crowd, was filled with anxiety. He kept wondering how he had performed and whether he could make it into the second tier. In stark contrast to Chen Xuan was Deng Zhou, whose expression remained calm and composed, as if this imperial examination was nothing more than a routine experience for him.

On the other side, Su Jin was also silently praying to the gods, hoping that heaven would favor him and grant him a satisfactory result.

As for those students who failed the imperial examination, such as Wang Feng and Jiang Yuan, they seemed somewhat disappointed and helpless. Within a few short days, they packed their bags one after another and embarked on their journey home. After all, although Xianyang was prosperous, for these disheartened individuals, there was little left to cherish.

Just before Wang Feng and Jiang Yuan were about to leave Xianyang, Chen Xuan suggested that the four of them go to a tavern for a meal as a final farewell. Since they all came from poor families and were short of money, they couldn't afford to go to the famous Qin Dynasty's No. 1 Restaurant, so they could only choose a relatively inexpensive tavern.

Before long, the food and drinks were served. Looking at the simple dishes and coarse wine, the four men felt a heavy weight settle in their hearts. They knew that after this parting, the chances of seeing each other again were slim. Enveloped in this melancholic atmosphere, they unknowingly drank quite a bit. As they staggered out of the tavern, a gust of cold wind swept across their faces, instantly sobering them up. Even so, they supported each other, struggling step by step towards their dormitory.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the window and fell on Chen Xuan's face, causing him to slowly wake up. As soon as he opened his eyes, Chen Xuan sensed something was wrong. Looking closer, he discovered that Wang Feng and Jiang Yuan's luggage had vanished! Startled, Chen Xuan quickly sat up, feeling a sharp pain in his neck. Rubbing his neck, he turned to Deng Zhou, who was quietly reading at the table, and asked, "Did Wang Feng and Jiang Yuan leave?"

Upon hearing the voice, Deng Zhou simply responded with a faint "Hmm," before turning his attention back to the book in his hands.

Seeing this, Chen Xuan shook his head helplessly and slowly got out of bed. He stretched and loosened his muscles, then walked to the basin to wash up. The cool water splashed on his face, instantly making Chen Xuan much more awake. After washing up, he finally felt completely refreshed.

Meanwhile, the grading of the examination papers was proceeding at full speed. The officials responsible for grading the papers dared not slacken their efforts, as this imperial examination was of paramount importance and fairness was essential. Surprisingly, in less than five days, all the papers had been graded.

The King of Qin sat in the Zhangtai Palace, several articles considered relatively outstanding laid out before him. He picked up one with a serious expression and began to study it carefully, but as he read, he couldn't help but frown, letting out sighs from time to time. Clearly, the King was not satisfied with the views and ideas presented in these articles. He shook his head repeatedly, muttering to himself, "These articles appear ornate, but are actually empty and devoid of substance! The so-called ideas are completely unfounded, mere theoretical speculation, utterly incapable of being put into practice."

Just then, Ying Wuyou was also summoned to the Zhangtai Palace. She respectfully bowed to the King of Qin and then stood aside awaiting instructions. The King of Qin glanced at Ying Wuyou, casually handed her one of the articles, and said, "Take a look at these articles and share your thoughts."

Ying Wuyou took the article and read it carefully. After a moment, she looked up and smiled at the King of Qin, saying, "Father, I think these people's writing is quite good, and the articles are well-researched and logically structured. From the writing style, they are indeed masterpieces. However..." Ying Wuyou paused slightly here, and continued, "However, as Father said, these ideas may lack practicality. But it is undeniable that their talent is still commendable."

The King of Qin nodded slightly. "I know they are talented, but dealing with the Xiongnu requires a pragmatic approach." He then picked up an article and glanced at the signature; it was written by Chen Xuan. The King's eyes lit up, and he was increasingly delighted as he read. The article was not only beautifully written, but the strategies it proposed were also practical and feasible, with comprehensive considerations for both military deployment and diplomatic means.

Without hesitation, the King of Qin waved his hand and gave the order, his voice booming like a bell: "The top scholar in this year's palace examination will be Chen Xuan!"

Immediately afterwards, the King of Qin spoke again, this time appointing two more people: the second-place winner and the third-place winner.