Chapter 976: Eager

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Officer Tian cast a disdainful glance at Shao Yunduan, a sneer playing on his lips.

As long as the Tian Family held power, Shao Yunduan would never rise above. How audacious of him to attend the banquet after offending the Tian Family!

Officer Tian begrudgingly acknowledged that Shao Yunduan stood out among the Advanced Scholars.

It was no wonder his prideful daughter had developed feelings for him.

But Shao Yunduan was too foolish to comprehend the gravity of his actions, ensuring an unfavorable fate awaited him.

One day, he would regret his choices!

As the time neared, a group of well-dressed eunuchs guided the Advanced Scholars to line up according to their rankings—first, second, and third. They followed the courtiers and knelt before the Emperor as a gesture of respect.

The Advanced Scholars couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement as they beheld the Emperor’s presence. It was a profound honor to witness the sky in such a manner!

Accompanied by the crown prince, several princes, and distinguished scholars from the pavilion, Emperor Xuan of Qi entered the imperial garden. His gaze fell upon the newly minted Advanced Scholars, kneeling before him. He beamed with joy.

When the government admitted scholars, it injected fresh vitality into the court, ensuring a smooth transition of power. Each new examination held immense significance.

Once the Emperor settled in his seat, the ceremonial officer’s voice rang out, and the Advanced Scholars and courtiers prostrated themselves. “Long live the Emperor!” The cheers surged like a tsunami, resonating through the skies.

Emperor Xuan’s face lit up with delight. He laughed heartily, instructing everyone to rise. He commended them and encouraged the scholars to devote themselves to the nation, shoulder the burdens of the imperial court, and work diligently for the well-being of the people under the Qin Dynasty’s rule. The newly inducted Advanced Scholars knelt once again and replied with resounding voices, their unified cheers filling the air.

Their faces flushed with excitement, and their eyes sparkled with anticipation. The energy within them surged, their hearts yearning to become diligent officials who would work tirelessly for the country and its people, a gesture of gratitude towards the benevolent Emperor.

Emperor Xuan’s satisfaction grew, and he instructed the servants to serve wine and delicacies to the scholars.

At such gatherings, poetry compositions were expected, serving as a means for courtiers to engage with the Advanced Scholars and familiarize themselves with one another. It was also an opportunity for the new scholars to showcase their talents.

The Advanced Scholars brimmed with enthusiasm, eager to participate in this customary exhibition.

This was the highly anticipated spectacle of every banquet—a lively, captivating display of talent. Following the announcement of the rankings, preparations commenced, and confidence ran high among the scholars.

Some even harbored ambitions to surpass the competition with their prowess and secure the top spot.

For her, it marked her first appearance before the Emperor—a promising beginning.

If she could please the Emperor and elicit his approval with a simple “Good!” the courtiers and officials would regard her in a new light, paving the way for a prosperous future.

After three rounds of wine, the conversation shifted towards poetry. Under the guidance of the Crown Prince, other princes, and ministers, Emperor Xuan of Qi proposed a topic, requesting the scholars to exhibit their talents.

Laughter subsided, and their minds began to contemplate, aiming to deliver an impressive speech that would etch their names in history.

Emperor Xuan was known for his affability, provided his own interests were not at stake.

For instance, he sympathized with the Advanced Scholars, apprehensive that some might exploit the opportunity to criticize and provoke controversies. Hence, he decided to forego a specific format and instead invited the scholars to compose poems.