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“So, I’ve specially arranged Courtyard One for Your Royal Highness to reside in,” Jiang Junli declared earnestly.
The Crown Prince, taken aback, thought to himself, Courtyard One was acquired through his own skills, wasn’t it? Where was Jiang Junli being nice to him?
Understanding Jiang Junli’s nature well, the Crown Prince chose not to argue further and remarked, “Speaking of which, at this point in the year, the number of students residing in Splendorous Garden seems a bit lacking.”
“It might be fewer in number, but the quality is exceptional. They can certainly become the pillars of the nation and serve the court diligently in the future,” Jiang Junli confidently stated, puffing out his chest. He then glanced at the Crown Prince and asked, “Your Highness, do you have confidence this year?”
This year, the Crown Prince had secretly registered for the Spring Examinations without the Emperor’s knowledge.
The Crown Prince had his reasons for participating in the exams this year – to test his own abilities and to assess the skills of the students.
“Fair enough,” the Crown Prince responded with a slight raise of his eyebrows, seemingly unconcerned.
Jiang Junli sighed, “How wonderful it would be if I could participate in the Spring Examinations alongside you one day.”
Unfortunately, despite several attempts at the exams, he had always fallen short in the Autumn Examinations, never having a chance in the Spring Examinations.
It was a lamentable situation!
“As the head of the Jiang family, if you were to request a recommendation from the Imperial Academy, you could legitimately participate in the Spring Examinations. But you…” the Crown Prince’s words trailed off as Jiang Junli quickly interjected, shaking his head, “That wouldn’t be right. In the imperial examinations, one must rely on genuine talent and knowledge, progressing step by step. It’s not right to depend on family connections to bypass the proper channels.”
Laughing!
He participates in the imperial examinations to serve the court and be loyal to the nation, not for any superficial reasons.
The Crown Prince remained silent, realizing that Jiang Junli was indeed unique.
With a slight cough, the Crown Prince nodded repeatedly, “You’re right, Junli.”
“Naturally, this is my principle!” Jiang Junli proudly lifted his chin, his face beaming. “I believe that a prodigy will emerge in this year’s Spring Examinations. As long as they shine brightly and contribute significantly to the nation in the future, I will be more than satisfied.”
“Oh?” The Crown Prince became intrigued. “You seem confident. Could it be that a prodigy has arrived in Splendorous Garden this year?”
“Yes!” Jiang Junli’s chin almost reached the sky as he spoke enthusiastically. “The gentleman, Scholar Song, who arrived at Splendorous Garden today, not only possesses a dignified appearance and extraordinary demeanor but also boasts a wealth of knowledge. He is as knowledgeable as a scholarly giant, with remarkable insights in his writings that can rival those of eminent literary scholars. What’s most remarkable is that despite his relatively short time spent studying, he has excelled in the examinations and consistently ranked first, all thanks to his diligence, exceptional memory, and ability to absorb knowledge swiftly.”
“Even more commendable is scholar Song’s exceptional character, his filial piety, respect for elders and teachers, harmonious relationship with his wife, and his humble demeanor.”
“Such an outstanding individual?” The Crown Prince became increasingly intrigued. “I must meet him personally. However, as the saying goes, no one is without flaws. You speak of scholar Song as if he has no imperfections at all, which seems somewhat unbelievable.”
Upon hearing this, Jiang Junli’s smiling mouth involuntarily drooped. “Well, there are some flaws.”
“What flaws?” the Crown Prince inquired.
“It seems that Scholar Song may bring bad luck to those around him…”