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Song Jingyun is naturally gifted and intelligent, excelling in many things. Since he mentioned trying to create the bamboo woven paintings, it seems likely he can succeed.
However…
At this moment, they were in the Splendorous Garden in the capital, and Song Jingyun was preparing for the upcoming Spring Imperial Examination. How could he attempt bamboo weaving here now?
Jiang Mixia cleared her throat and advised, “The exam is approaching. It’s best to focus on exam preparation.”
“Preparing for the exam is crucial, but as you said before, the exam tests knowledge and insight, not something achieved overnight. Spending all day buried in books now wouldn’t be a last-minute effort, would it?” Song Jingyun chuckled. “You also mentioned that studying requires a balance of work and rest. It won’t take much effort to weave this, and it might even help shift our focus, potentially aiding in exam preparation!”
Jiang Mixia remained silent, unable to refute the compelling argument!
Due to Song Jingyun’s insistence, later that afternoon, Jiang Mixia went out with him to find the bamboo and tools needed for creating the bamboo woven paintings.
Given the urgency of the situation, they didn’t worry about comparing prices or looking for the best deals. With money playing a role, Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun quickly acquired all the necessary materials for the bamboo weaving paintings and got busy in the No. 8 Courtyard.
Splitting bamboo, cutting strips, polishing, dyeing the materials, weaving…
Song Jingyun was enthusiastic and worked with great efficiency, swiftly completing the preparatory tasks and starting the weaving process.
However, the initial attempts at weaving did not yield the desired results. Undeterred, Song Jingyun, after setting aside the failed pieces, continued to try again.
Observing his persistence, Jiang Mixia allowed him to proceed without much interference, reminding him to rest and assisting with meal preparations.
Word of Song Jingyun’s bamboo weaving endeavors in the No. 8 Courtyard quickly reached Jiang Junli and the Crown Prince’s ears.
The Crown Prince was astonished, “Song Jingyun is truly extraordinary.”
Engaging in bamboo weaving activities in Splendorous Garden, especially with the Spring Examination approaching, was indeed a remarkable feat!
“It’s rare to see someone unaffected by societal prejudices,” Jiang Junli nodded in agreement, adding, “Upon reflection, I, too, should follow Song Jingyun’s example, paying less heed to others’ opinions and criticisms, and instead, following my heart to pursue what I truly desire!”
Upon witnessing Jiang Junli’s resolute demeanor, the Crown Prince’s heart skipped a beat, causing his posture to stiffen. “Perhaps it’s wise to think carefully before acting,” he hesitated.
“Absolutely not!” Jiang Junli asserted firmly, “Once you have an idea, you must act on it immediately, following your heart is the way to go.”
His words were resolute and impactful, sending a shiver down the Crown Prince’s spine.
Oh no, things are about to get lively in the capital in the coming days…
In the following days, the capital buzzed with activity. The reason for the commotion was the sudden appearance of temporary booths set up in the streets and alleys of the city, equipped with writing utensils. Anyone who could write a complete ancient poem could receive a silver or two.
If the handwriting is neat, an additional silver or two.
If you can recite a passage from the Four Books and Five Classics, an additional silver or two.
If you can explain the key points of the recited text, adding two more silvers…