Chapter 978: Sweat

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Shao Yunduan was taken aback by the Emperor’s praise. He even questioned whether he was looking at his own work.

He knew the true caliber of his composition.

It was an ordinary piece, perhaps commendable in the eyes of average scholars, but among the esteemed gathering of scholars present, including many renowned and accomplished individuals, it should not have stood out.

As the Primus, he understood that not all advanced scholars excelled in poetry. Thus, it was normal for the Primus to produce a more ordinary piece among such esteemed experts. No one would suspect his lack of talent.

Therefore, he had felt little pressure while crafting this particular poem.

Yet, he couldn’t comprehend why the Emperor had spoken so highly of it.

Emperor Xuan, in his praise, ordered his attendants to give the poem a closer look. What more could they do?

Shao Yunduan smiled and added a few more words of gratitude, all the while wondering if he was truly deserving of such accolades.

After all, when the Emperor commended them, the courtiers would undoubtedly follow suit. They were not as discerning as the Emperor himself.

The eunuch responsible for delivering the poetry also recited it to the other Advanced Scholars. Copies of the poem were distributed to the scholars as well.

The expressions of the Advanced Scholars stiffened momentarily, exchanging glances with one another. They mustered forced smiles and joined the ministers in praising and admiring the work.

“That is an exceptional poem!”

“No wonder he is the Primus; he is capable of producing such magnificent work!”

“I am so lucky to have been able to read the masterpiece by the Primus!”

“Look at the beginning of the story, it is totally out of the ordinary! Ordinary people would never have thought of this!”

“I think that is the best idea! How did you get it? The Primus is so quick-witted!”

“It is so good to use the words ‘unclean’ and ‘scarred moon’ in these two areas!”

Shao Yunduan.

Shao Yunduan got so nervous.

He, who had been calm and honest since he walked into the imperial garden, finally felt embarrassed and uncomfortable.

He had no idea where to put her hands and how to place his feet.

He sat there stiffly, not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

That was such a terrible feeling!

Hearing the compliments about Shao Yunduan, Emperor Xuan believed that his Primus was very good at making poems – why were they speaking so sincerely?

He laughed and said happily, “My Primus is so talented and handsome!”

The ministers and Advanced Scholar were speechless inwardly, but they all agreed with Shao Yunduan. They spoke highly of Shao Yunduan, saying that he was the best scholar in history, and that ordinary poem of his was one of the best poems in history.

Shao Yunduan could not stand that any more. He got up, bowed and said, “Your Majesty, I am so ashamed, I don’t deserve your praise…”

Emperor Xuan laughed. “You are too modest, Primus! Not only are you advanced, but you are also morally upright. I am very glad!”

Shao Yunduan said, “…I eh… thanks.”

Why did he feel that the story was getting worse and worse!