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Upon entering the dining hall, Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun were both momentarily taken aback.
The dining hall was exquisitely decorated, blending luxury with elegance. Even the screens separating the sections were embroidered with Suzhou silk, with distinct areas for the main hall and private rooms. The tables and chairs were finely crafted, resembling the ambiance of a high-class restaurant.
As they stepped into the dining hall, a person hurried over and led them to a private room, asking, “What would the gentleman and lady like to eat?”
Pointing to a sign on the wall, they continued, “These are the specials for today. You can try them, or if you prefer something else, feel free to order, and I will inform the kitchen.”
After discussing, Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun ordered Dongpo Pork Knuckle, Stir-fried Lotus Roots with Peas, Eight Treasures Rice, and Radish Shrimp Soup.
In about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the dishes were served one after the other.
With excellent ingredients and skilled cooking, each dish was a delight to the senses, prompting Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun to praise the delicious flavors continuously.
Song Jingyun resided in Courtyard Eight, the eighth student to successfully enter Splendorous Garden this year.
The number of students residing in Splendorous Garden was not a lot, and it was not yet mealtime, so there were no other diners in the dining hall at that moment. Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun enjoyed the tranquility, savoring their meal before preparing to return to Courtyard Eight.
As they stepped out of the dining hall, they encountered a young man.
Similar in age to Song Jingyun, the man was dressed in luxurious attire, exuding an air of sophistication and obvious high status.
For all scholars participating in the Spring Examinations, entering Splendorous Garden was a symbol of honor. Even the privileged sons of nobles studying at the National University in the capital took pride in gaining entry to Splendorous Garden.
Encountering such a scholar here was not surprising in the least.
Out of courtesy, Song Jingyun greeted the man with a bow.
In return, the man reciprocated the gesture and straightened up after a moment, smiling as he remarked, “Typically, students coming to the capital for the exams travel alone. It’s the first time I’ve seen someone like you, sir, with family in tow. I imagine you and your lady must be deeply devoted to each other.”
“You’re too kind,” Song Jingyun chuckled, scratching the back of his head.
Though it was the truth.
The bond between him and his wife was truly unshakeable!
Seeing Song Jingyun’s hearty smile, the man stifled a smile, bowed once more, and said, “Farewell.”
“Farewell,” Song Jingyun and Jiang Mixia both returned the gesture before leisurely making their way back to Courtyard Eight.
The man stood in place for a while, lost in thought, until Jiang Junli approached him and said, “You’re here?”
“Your Royal Highness graces us with your presence, and it’s only proper for me to extend a warm welcome,” Jiang Junli chuckled.
The Crown Prince, however, made a wry face, “A warm welcome? I don’t quite see that. It seems you’ve put more effort into these scholars than you have into me!”
“Your Highness, you speak the truth,” Jiang Junli straightened his posture, chin lifted proudly. “Scholars are the future pillars of the court, the hope of the entire kingdom. It’s only right to treat them well so they can wholeheartedly serve the court.”
Makes sense…
But then again…
The Crown Prince raised an eyebrow, “As the Crown Prince, I too have a duty towards the entire court, planning for the welfare of the nation. Shouldn’t you treat me even better then?”