The Lantern Festival of the fourteenth year of the Great Jin was livelier than ever. Overnight, Jiang Ruan's name had spread throughout the entire capital. For a time, everyone in the capital was talking about the Eldest Young Miss of the Jiang family who had just returned to the fu. Her beauty was unparalleled, her talent was unparalleled, and she also understood the rules, abided by etiquette, and had a noble bearing.
When Jiang Su Su woke up early in the morning, she saw an exquisite white rabbit lantern placed on the carved cupboard at the head of the bed. She stared blankly for a moment, then suddenly became angry. She screamed, "Come, dragonfly, butterfly!"
Butterfly quickly ran in, "Miss, what happened?"
Jiang Su Su pointed at the white rabbit lantern, "Who put this in?"
Butterfly was also shocked when she saw the lantern, "I haven't seen it in the morning, why did it suddenly appear?"
A third-rank servant girl standing behind Butterfly stepped forward and said, "It was sent by Eldest Miss's servant, Sister Bai Zhi. This servant thought it looked cute, so I put it here."
"Who allowed you to act on your own?" Jiang Su Su sneered, "Drag her away."
Two strong old women immediately came in and dragged the servant girl out. The servant girl begged for mercy in horror, "Second Miss, this servant was wrong. Second Miss, please spare this servant, this servant will not dare to do it again!"
Her voice gradually weakened, and Butterfly carefully placed a cup of tea in Jiang Su Su's hands, "Miss, drink some ginger tea to warm your body."
Jiang Su Su shook off Butterfly's hand, pulled the butterfly lantern from the bedside, and tore it into pieces. As if venting her anger, she threw the remains of the lantern on the ground and stomped on it a few times until it was no longer recognizable.
"Jiang Ruan that slut, she clearly came here to show off. Does she really think she's so great just because she got this lantern? It's just something that can't be shown in public! " Jiang Su Su sat down on the couch, "One day, she will be like this lantern, bullied and humiliated by me."
Butterfly did not dare to breathe loudly. Jiang Su Su was like a demon at this moment, with no trace of her usual gentle and innocent appearance.
At this moment, Dragonfly rushed in from outside and said in panic, "Miss, it's not good!"
Jiang Su Su was currently in a fit of anger, so she said unhappily, "What are you being so clumsy for? What's wrong?"
"This servant heard that early in the morning, the news spread in the capital that Zhou Da was hired by Madam to deliberately tarnish Eldest Young Lady's reputation, but yesterday he accidentally harmed Second Young Lady instead."
"What?" Jiang Su Su stood up all of a sudden. She couldn't care less and asked, "Where did this rumor come from? Zhou Da admitted it? This is impossible! "
"This servant is also not sure," the dragonfly hurriedly said, "Now the whole city is discussing this matter as if it's true."
Jiang Su Su's face paled. "Mother clearly said that but there is a problem. Who was the one who spread these words? This won't do, I want to go see Mother." As she finished speaking, she draped her coat over her shoulders. "Quickly go, Mother will definitely think of a way for me."
Unlike the chaotic scene in Mei Qing Yuan, the atmosphere in Ruan Ju was leisurely.
Lu Zhu arranged the pearls and jadeite glutinous rice balls on the table and took out a small plate of rose pastries from the basket. "These pastries were bestowed by Old Madam. She said that Miss made them well last night and had Cai Que jiejie send them over."
Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. Old Jiang Madam did not mention a word about Jiang Su Su. Her attitude was rather thought-provoking. It seemed that Xia Yan had not been able to gain any favor from Old Madam.
Lu Zhu watched as Jiang Ruan tasted the pastries and said, "Miss, today the news outside has gone crazy. It is said that someone wanted to harm Eldest Young Lady, but caused Second Young Lady to suffer." She paused and looked at Jiang Ruan's expression. "Thinking about it, Mei Qing Yuan is now in a terrible mess. Miss's actions are really satisfying."
Lian Qiao was embroidering at the side. Seeing Lu Zhu's expression, she could not help but say, "Although it is satisfying, Lu Zhu, what you did is absolutely safe. Just don't cause trouble for Miss."
"Jiejie can be at ease," Lu Zhu said proudly. "I searched for thirty children in the market and also the beggars at the East City Gate. Moreover, they used copper coins. No matter what, they could not find the source."
Jiang Ruan drank a mouthful of jadeite soup and said, "You did very well. Besides these words, did you say anything else?"
"How could this servant dare forget Miss's instructions," Lu Zhu had some hesitation on her face. "But is it really good to say this? That person's status …"
"Helping Jiang Su Su makes him my enemy. How can I not pay the price? I am just returning a little courtesy. He has always made me unhappy." Jiang Ruan smiled.
The rumors in the capital were not limited to the Jiang fu. At Jinying Wang fu, Steward Lin, who was over sixty years old, was so worried that his beard twitched. "What should I do? These rumors are getting more and more outrageous. Who is the one who spread these words? If I find out, I will make sure that he will not be able to bear the consequences. "
The person standing opposite him was Ye Feng. He moved his lips, thought for a moment, and then remained silent.
Overnight, while rumors circulated in the capital that Xia Yan wanted to find someone to frame Jiang Ruan, another rumor arose. That was, Jinying Wang, Xiao Shao, was deeply in love with Jiang Su Su. Thus, last night, he did not hesitate to lie to help Jiang Su Su out of trouble.
This rumor was vivid and vivid, and even clearly stated how Jiang Su Su and Xiao Shao were in love with each other. Steward Lin was burning with anxiety. What kind of person was his master? He had watched him grow up, but he had never heard Xiao Shao mention Jiang Su Su. If not for this rumor, Steward Lin was afraid that he would not even know what kind of person Jiang Su Su was.
"Who is it that wants to ruin Wangye's clean reputation? What kind of person is Jiang Su Su? To say that she is deeply in love, who is she trying to bluff!"
Steward Lin's temper had always been fiery. Although he was not young, he was still as straightforward as a child. Ye Feng was used to it, and simply looked up at the sky, pretending not to know. At this moment, he heard Xiao Shao call from inside the room, "Ye Feng."
Ye Feng hurriedly sternly said, "Master." With a flash, he entered the room. He saw Xiao Shao standing in front of the desk, playing with the exquisite dagger in his hand. He said, "Have you found out who it is?"
"It's a servant girl from the Jiang fu. The Brocade Guard is still investigating. Perhaps it's the Jiang family's Second Miss?" Ye Feng probed. In his opinion, Xiao Shao's charm was outstanding, and Jiang Su Su herself had spread such a rumor. Perhaps it was because she wanted to curry favor with Jinying Wang. If the rumor spread, Jiang Su Su could only marry Xiao Shao.
"It's not her," Xiao Shao said.
"Master thinks it is?" Ye Feng was puzzled and could not help but ask.
Xiao Shao's mind flashed back to last night on the Ling Long Boat. The way the girl in red had looked at him, and there seemed to be a deep hatred in her eyes.
He narrowed his eyes and coldly said, "Investigate the Eldest Miss of the Jiang family."
In the capital, there were places where the rumor would affect, but naturally, there were places where it would not affect. For example, Liu Min of the Imperial College knew nothing about what had happened last night. In the past few days, he had been preparing for the imperial examination, but the person who had not signed his name was still in contact with him. Every day, he would place his reply on the table, but the other party would not accept it. Instead, there would be another letter on the table. It was as if the other party knew what he was talking about without reading his reply. However, in these few days of interaction, Liu Min also discovered that the other party's talent and learning were excellent. Their opinions differed, but the other party always had a way to persuade him step by step. Furthermore, the reason was sufficient, so he had no choice but to be convinced.
Liu Min did not have any other friends in the Imperial College, so in his heart, he regarded this person who had not left his name as a confidant. Today, as usual, there was an additional letter on the table. However, it was not to discuss academic issues with him, but only one word: good luck.
This was to wish him success in the imperial examination in a few days. Liu Min smiled and put the letter away. He turned around and walked out of the dormitory. As soon as he stepped through the door of the Imperial College's study room, he heard everyone talking.
"I did not expect that Brother Jiang's younger sister, who has just returned, would be such a wonderful person. Last night, with just one dance, she defeated the Second Miss of the Jiang family."
Without saying a word, Liu Min walked to his seat and sat down. He naturally knew that everyone was talking about what had happened on the Ling Long Boat during the Lantern Festival. However, he was born poor and did not have the qualifications to participate. He had no way of knowing what had happened, nor did he care to know.
"However, the Eldest Miss of the Jiang family has had a hard life. She was sent to the residence from a young age, but as soon as she returned to the fu, she provoked Jiang Furen's underhanded methods. It's really a pity." Another young master shook his head, his tone rather sympathetic.
"Jiang Furen and the Second Miss of the Jiang family usually look gentle and amiable. How could they do such a thing?"
"You may know a person's face but not his heart. You did not see the actions of the Second Miss of the Jiang family and Jinying Wang last night. I'm afraid that they already have a head." As soon as this person finished speaking, the student opposite him said, "You speak with such jealousy. Do you hate yourself for not being Jinying Wang and not being able to repay the beauty?"
Everyone laughed heartily. At this moment, a person walked in from outside the door. He was dressed in a rain-drizzled brocade robe, but his brows were tightly knitted. It was Jiang Chao. Seeing Jiang Chao enter, everyone's discussion came to an abrupt end. However, there was still a trace of ridicule in their eyes. Jiang Chao naturally understood what everyone's eyes meant. An inexplicable fire suddenly ignited in his heart, only feeling that everyone was looking at him as if he was a joke. Thus, he strode in. As he passed by Liu Min, his body heavily bumped into Liu Min's table. Immediately, the ink on the table toppled over and stained Liu Min.
Jiang Chao fiercely turned his head. The ink had also stained his brocade robe. He was worried that he had no place to vent his anger. At this moment, his body was stained with ink. Without waiting for Liu Min to speak, he grabbed Liu Min from his seat and said, "What are you doing!"
In the Imperial College, Jiang Chao had always been amiable and gentle. Although he was not close to Liu Min, he would not take the initiative to provoke him. Today, he had been extremely sullen. However, most of the students in the Imperial College came from noble families and could not be easily offended. As far as the eye could see, only Liu Min could be casually bullied.
The surrounding people just watched without saying a word. No one would stand up for Liu Min. Liu Min was grabbed by the collar by Jiang Chao. He was not as burly as Jiang Chao, nor was he as strong as Jiang Chao. At this moment, he only stared at Jiang Chao with a pair of prideful eyes, not saying a word.
Jiang Chao did not see any fear in Liu Min's eyes. Instead, he was incomparably furious, wishing that he could tear the person in front of him into pieces. Taking a deep breath, he suddenly smiled and said maliciously, "You've dirtied my clothes. What do you think I should do?"
Liu Min had always been proud and aloof in the Imperial College. If he had encountered such a situation in the past, he would definitely have fought for what was right and would rather die than submit. Jiang Chao's question was a great insult to him, who had an extremely high self-esteem. Everyone was waiting to watch a good show, but unexpectedly, the stubborn youth lowered his head slightly and said, "I'm sorry."
Everyone was stunned on the spot.
Just as Liu Min was about to act impulsively, for some reason, he suddenly thought of the letters that the stranger had given him. In one of the letters, the stranger had argued with him about whether he should bow down to the rich and powerful in this world. Liu Min thought that he would rather die than submit, but the stranger said otherwise. The stranger said that a righteous heart and following the ways of the world were the wisest actions. For example, the bamboos in the bamboo forest were rarely broken, because they knew how to move with the wind and maintain their proper shape, so that they would not be blown away by the wind. On the other hand, the straight and lonely trees and the wild flowers by the roadside were the easiest to be broken by the wind. The former did not know how to bow down, and the latter did not know how to be upright.
Adaptation and perseverance had always been controlled by a certain degree. Only when a smart person grasped this degree would they be able to do what they wanted to do.
At this time, Liu Min suddenly thought of the words in the letter. The stranger had said that in this world, perhaps bending down was more difficult than persevering.
He looked at the slightly dazed Jiang Chao and repeated, "I'm sorry."
Jiang Chao came back to his senses. He had never thought that this poor and arrogant person would admit defeat in front of him, but he was not happy at all. Because although Liu Min had said this, his eyes were as proud and aloof as ever, as if mocking his childishness. For a moment, the anger in Jiang Chao's heart burned even brighter. He laughed coldly, "You think an apology is enough? If you don't lick my boots clean today! Don't even think of leaving this gate! "
When the other students of the Directorate saw this scene, they could not help but discuss spiritedly. Although they usually bullied Liu Min, they still maintained their status as scholars and were not willing to do anything that would lower their status. And the usually gentle and amiable Jiang Chao was actually so overbearing today. It was really despicable.
Jiang Chao was completely unaware of the opinions of the people around him. He only wanted to see Liu Min in a sorry state, wanted Liu Min to beg for mercy in front of him. If he did not beg for mercy, even if Liu Min could leave this gate today, he would probably have endless troubles in the future. After all, he still had a bedridden mother at home.
Liu Min clenched his fists. His delicate and handsome appearance had a trace of anger at this moment, but very quickly, that trace of anger was also suppressed by him. He lifted up his blue robe that had become white from washing and said softly, "If Young Master Jiang insists on this, Liu Min can only do as you say."
After saying this, he knelt down on one knee and was about to help Jiang Chao lick the ink stained corner of his robe.
Everyone held their breath. Today's matter was really too strange. Firstly, Jiang Chao, who was usually the most amiable person, was actually so overbearing. Secondly, the proud and upright Liu Min was actually bending his knees and enduring.
Jiang Chao was also stunned in place. There was only a nameless rage in his heart that he could not let out. He had originally wanted to use Liu Min to vent his anger, but he did not expect that Liu Min would seem to be a completely different person today. It was as if his fist had landed on soft cotton. It was clearly a lowly action, but for some reason, when he was looked at by those clear and arrogant eyes, it was as if Liu Min was the noble person looking down on him.
Without thinking, Jiang Chao kicked at Liu Min. Who knew that just as he raised his foot, something would strike his knee, causing him to be unable to move for a moment.
Mo Cong stood up. "When it is possible to forgive people, one should forgive them. Brother Jiang, there is no need to be so calculative over a piece of clothing. Brother Liu also did not do it on purpose. There is no need to let this matter spoil your mood for the imperial examinations in a few days. Why don't I compensate you with a piece of clothing? Brother Jiang, don't make things difficult for Brother Liu. "
Liu Min glanced at Mo Cong. He really did not expect that Mo Cong would speak up for him. Jiang Chao was also surprised. Mo Cong's status was not something he could casually control. Even if he was furious, he could not show it. He flung his sleeves and snorted coldly. He simply strode out of the study without looking back.
After Jiang Chao left, Mo Cong asked Liu Min, "Are you alright?"
Liu Min stood up and gently patted the dust off his body. He didn't care that his body was covered in ink. After thanking Mo Cong, he returned to his seat and began to read his book without a word. His movements were elegant and relaxed, without a trace of frustration. It was as if the previous incident had never happened. Mo Cong saw this and a trace of deep thought flashed through his eyes.
The scholars of the Imperial College were arguing like this, but none of them noticed that the scene in the room was being witnessed by the two people outside. Official Registrar Song and Chancellor Chen stood outside the door. Official Registrar Song was slightly angry. "Jiang Chao is too outrageous. What kind of place is the Imperial College? Does he think that it is a place where he, a nobleman, can act as he pleases? He is truly an insult to the face of scholars! "
"He must be feeling indignant." Chancellor Chen said. They had heard about the incident yesterday and naturally knew why Jiang Chao was behaving so strangely today.
"No matter what, he should not be like this to his colleagues!" Official Registrar Song was displeased. "But Liu Min surprised me today. He actually knows how to give in. If it was in the past, who knows how big of a disturbance it would have caused."
If Liu Min's temper was the same as before, he would definitely make a big fuss. Logically speaking, Liu Min could stand his ground, but Minister Jiang was an extremely protective person, especially towards his legitimate son and daughter. In the end, Liu Min would still be the one to suffer.
"He knows how to bend his back. That is the scariest part." Chancellor Chen's gaze deepened. "We have underestimated him in the past. This person is flexible. If he can enter the imperial court, he will definitely become someone great in the future. Jiang Chao is far inferior. "
Official Registrar Song usually heard that Chancellor Chen did not think highly of Liu Min. Now that Chancellor Chen had taken the initiative to praise Liu Min, it coincided with his own thoughts. Official Registrar Song was relieved and echoed, "Indeed. Moreover, Liu Min is completely sincere and upright. He is truly a rare talent."
Chancellor Chen smiled and did not say anything more.
Jiang Chao angrily returned to the Jiang fu and rushed towards Mei Qing Yuan. Lin Lang saw him walk in with an unkind expression and hurriedly said, "Second Young Master, Furen is talking to Miss."
"Go away!" Jiang Chao pushed Lin Lang aside. Just as he entered the door, he saw Jiang Su Su nestled in Xia Yan's embrace, crying non-stop. Xia Yan was wholeheartedly comforting her.
When Jiang Chao heard Jiang Su Su crying, he felt even more upset. "What are you crying for? After doing such a thing, I can't even lift my head in front of the Imperial College. Do you only know how to cry now?"
Jiang Su Su was startled and said in an aggrieved tone, "Why are you yelling at me? Do you think I will be happy? Now that my reputation is ruined, Second Brother, instead of comforting me, you have come to question me. What do you mean? "
"Alright," Xia Yan frowned and looked at Jiang Chao, "Chao 'er, what's wrong with you? Su' er, you are the younger sister. How can you say such things about her?"
Jiang Chao looked at Jiang Su Su's tear-stained face and the anger in his heart subsided. He sat down on a small table at the side, "It's not that I am blaming her, but the whole city is now full of rumors about last night's incident. I can't lift my head in the Imperial College, Mother is being called a vicious woman, and Younger Sister has become a joke. It's very vexing."
Xia Yan gritted her teeth and said, "Zhou Da clearly did not say such things in prison. Someone must have deliberately spread the news. To want to ruin my Su 'er's reputation, what a sinister idea! "
"Who would do such a thing?" Jiang Chao said angrily, "Let me find out, I will skin him alive."
Jiang Su Su snorted coldly, "Who else could it be? Besides that slut Jiang Ruan, who would do such a thing?"
"Jiang Ruan?" Jiang Chao was suspicious. In his eyes, Jiang Ruan was just a young girl. She did not have a mother by her side, so how could she have such a complicated mind? "How could she have such great ability?"
Jiang Su Su's nails dug into her palms, "You're just looking down on her!"
"I also feel that something is fishy." Xia Yan frowned, "The one who fell into the water was obviously her, how did it become Su 'er? That handkerchief was also strange. Whether it was her or not, Jiang Ruan cannot be kept alive." She could sensitively feel that although Jiang Ruan did not look remarkable, there was something about her that made people feel cold.
"Mother must avenge me." Jiang Su Su cried out, "She must lose all standing and reputation."
"Don't worry," Xia Yan laughed, but there was not the slightest trace of a smile in her eyes, "I have already told this matter to your father. I only said that there was something fishy about your falling into the water. These few days, you must properly curry favor with your father. I have a thousand ways to ruin this slut. As for Jinying Wang, take advantage of these few days to send an invitation saying that you are thanking him. Go to his residence and find out what his intentions are. "
At the mention of Xiao Shao, Jiang Su Su's pretty face reddened. She shyly lowered her head and did not speak. Jiang Chao thought for a moment, "If Jinying Wang really likes Younger Sister, in the future, he can also take care of me in the officialdom."
"Second Brother, what are you talking about?" Jiang Su Su was somewhat embarrassed. Xia Yan also frowned, "What are you talking about? How can your Younger Sister's clean reputation be so casually talked about?" She paused, then continued, "Now, you should properly read your books. In a few days, you will be the champion in one fell swoop in the imperial examinations. At that time, Su 'er's matter will also be over, and your father will be happy. At that time, Jiang Ruan will still be no more than an ant for you to knead. "
When Jiang Su Su heard this, she immediately said, "Second Brother, don't disappoint us."
Jiang Chao waved his hand, "Don't worry, I have already arranged everything. Moreover, I have made ample preparations, so I will definitely be able to obtain a good ranking." He said, "At that time, I will have a meteoric rise and become a noble person of the upper class. Those lower class people won't even be worthy to carry my shoes!" At this point, his tone became sinister, and Liu Min's arrogant gaze flashed in his eyes.
Xia Yan patted his shoulder, "My son, Mother will pray for you."
When Lu Zhu told Jiang Ruan about the information she had obtained from Mei Qing Yuan, Jiang Ruan only smiled faintly. Lu Zhu looked at her careless appearance and said somewhat anxiously, "Miss, the imperial examinations will be held in a few days. Second Young Master is so confident, if he really obtains a good ranking, then we will be in trouble."
"He has no talent and no virtue, how can he obtain a good ranking?" Jiang Ruan looked at the newly completed painting in front of her and put down her brush. Lu Zhu came over to take a look and saw that the painting was a painting of moonlight. The moonlight shone brightly over the hills, and there was a faint glow of fireflies in the forest.
"Miss's painting is really beautiful." Lu Zhu exclaimed in admiration, "Is this painting going to be mounted?"
"No need, send it to the Imperial Academy." Jiang Ruan said.
"Painting?" Lu Zhu was surprised, "Miss is sending a painting? Not writing? "
"He will understand." Jiang Ruan rolled up the painting.
Between the moonlight and the firefly, whose light was brighter, who shone more. The place that the firefly could fly to was no more than a few zhang high, and the light that it could shine was no more than a square inch. How high was the moon, but the places that it could shine were mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas. The higher one stood, the wider the area that they could shine. If one wanted to help more people, one had to have more power. With a higher status, one could do things with more freedom.
Liu Min was smart enough to understand this.
Although Lu Zhu did not understand why, she still put away the painting. Jiang Ruan gave her a few instructions in her ear, and Lu Zhu nodded in surprise and left.
The next few days passed by peacefully. On the surface, there seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary, but rumors in the capital said that the Emperor had the intention to appoint Zhao daren of Hanlin Academy as the chief examiner, and that Zhao daren had accepted bribes from the examinees. This matter was widely spread in the marketplace, and the imperial censors submitted memorials one after another to request for a thorough investigation of this matter. As the annual imperial examination was of great importance, the Emperor was enraged, and suspended Zhao daren for questioning, and ordered the chief examiner to be the chief examiner.
When the news of Zhao daren's suspension came out, it was said that Jiang Quan had not returned to the fu for two whole days. When he returned, he threw a big tantrum, and Mei Qing Yuan was thrown into chaos. Jiang Chao was so angry that he punished several servant girls who had committed minor mistakes. The servants of the Jiang fu were anxious all day, and only Ruan Ju was as comfortable as ever.
At this time, Jiang Su Su sent an invitation to Jinying Wang fu, saying that she wanted to pay a visit to thank Xiao Shao for helping her during the Lantern Festival. Unexpectedly, Xiao Shao was not in the fu. Instead, Jiang Su Su had been scolded by an old housekeeper of Jinying Wang fu, who was over sixty years of age, and had returned in a rage.
Lian Qiao and Lu Zhu impatiently imitated Jiang Su Su's angry and distressed expression for Jiang Ruan to see, and Jiang Ruan could not help but feel a little happier.
In addition, Nanny Zhou's condition had improved a lot under careful nursing. In order to not frighten the servants of Ruan Ju, Nanny Zhou used a piece of cloth to cover her eyes. On normal days, she could also do some simple work in Ruan Ju.
Jiang Ruan had left the few servant girls that Xia Yan had sent over unchecked. Only Lian Qiao, who was impatient, managed to make those servant girls docile. Although Bai Zhi looked gentle, she was actually not very close to people. These servant girls had been given the cold shoulder in Ruan Ju, and they had been at a loss. Only Shu Xiang, who did things quickly and cleanly, had a gentle and appropriate temperament. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi could not find any fault with her.
However, the rumors about Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan, mother and daughter, were suppressed by the rumors that the chief examiner had been bribed. It could be considered as a blessing in disguise.
On the day of the examination, which was presided over by the Ministry of Rites, Jiang Chao was not very happy when he returned to the fu. However, the examiners appointed by the Emperor were all stubborn and upright officials, and there was no room for discussion.
He anxiously waited for the day the results were released. Unexpectedly, Jiang Chao was only ranked four hundred and fifty-eighth, and did not even manage to earn any tribute money. Jiang Quan was so angry that he shut himself in the study and refused to see anyone. The act of bringing Jiang Chao around to socialize seemed to be a huge joke. Jiang Su Su was incomparably disappointed. Xia Yan wanted to persuade Jiang Quan, but for the first time, Jiang Quan lost his temper with her. Lin Lang stood to one side, not daring to make a sound.
When Jiang Chao received the news that he had failed in the examination, he left the Jiang fu without a second word. For the next few days, he drank himself into a stupor in a restaurant, and did not return home, as if he had become dispirited.
When Lu Zhu told Jiang Ruan about these matters, her tone was full of relief, "So this Second Young Master only speaks well, but in reality, he does not have any ability. I heard that he drinks every day. Today, Master ordered people to tie him up and bring him back to use the family rules to properly teach him a lesson. "
Jiang Ruan took a sip of tea, "He is proud and arrogant, and regards his face as more important than his life. Naturally, he cannot accept failure. "
"This servant thinks that Second Young Master is not as good as Miss. Miss is much smarter than Second Young Master." Lu Zhu pursed her lips.
Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes and did not speak. A few days ago, she had ordered Lu Zhu to go to the marketplace and spread rumors about the chief examiner bribing the examiner. In her previous life, the matter of Zhao daren's bribery had only been exposed a few years later. Now that she had spoken about it so early, the Emperor was bound to change the chief examiner. And just in case, the new chief examiner would definitely have an upright and plainspoken temperament. Although Jiang Chao's essays were not bad, they were too slick. To the faction of the clear stream, they hated these kinds of essays the most. Even if he did not fail, he would not get a good ranking.
On the contrary, Liu Min's solitary and straightforward temperament would definitely be to the chief examiner's liking. Moreover, with the Emperor personally presiding over the court examinations, with her letters, Liu Min's views would subtly change, and she would definitely win the Emperor's favor.
Liu Min, Liu Min, Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. Don't let me down.
Sure enough, three days later, the results of the court examinations were out. The Emperor personally named Liu Min as the top scorer, Mo Cong as the second runner-up, and Wang Ziling as the third runner-up.
The top three were parading through the streets on horseback. All three of them were dressed in new official robes and were riding fine horses. Moreover, they were born with a striking appearance. Many young girls from their boudoirs came out to take a look. The most eye-catching one was the zhuangyuan. The young man was born with delicate features, and his bright red official robes made his complexion look a little more gentle, yet he had a clear and lofty character. As the white horse passed, it was all silk flowers thrown by bold women.
Liu Min was still suspicious. He still remembered the question the Emperor had given him during the court examinations: In the past, it was said that the saints ruled the country with propriety, and the country flourished. Afterwards, when the saints passed away, the country declined. However, there were also people who said: Although propriety is good, it is difficult to restrict the people. Only by law can the world follow suit, and there will be peace and prosperity. What does everyone think?
The moment he heard the question, he was shocked. It was exactly the same as the mysterious person's first letter. He was immediately confused. Previously, he thought that propriety was the best way to rule the country, but the other party thought that it should be combined. It was reasonable and convincing. Now that the question had appeared again, he calmed his mind. Just like what he had discussed with the mysterious person, he spoke with fervor and assurance: Propriety and law, each has its own importance. If propriety rules the country, the people will be at peace for a long time. If law rules the country, the people will be strong …
At first, he was still a little uneasy. The more he spoke, the more fluent and passionate he became. His previous hesitation was completely thrown to the back of his mind. For the first time, he confidently revealed his ambitions.
When he finished, he lightly bowed to the Emperor and said, "This student has a foolish opinion."
The surroundings were silent for a long time before the person on the high seat burst into laughter. He clapped his hands and said, "Good, well said! I am extremely pleased that the Jin Kingdom has such a talent! "
Liu Min was still in disbelief after being named zhuangyuan in a daze. Mo Cong came over to congratulate him, "Brother Liu's point of view is really novel. It is very different from what Brother Liu has said in the past."
He politely returned the greeting, but he was more and more hesitant. If he did not know that the Emperor did not have such hobbies, he would almost have thought that the mysterious person was the Emperor. But after all, it could not be the Emperor. But who could it be? Why would he help him if he knew the question a few days ago?
Liu Min's mood was somewhat complicated. He had lived an honest and upright life and had never used such a dishonorable method to win anything. But at this moment, he did not want to take the initiative to say everything. Once he said everything, the person who helped him behind the scenes was bound to be implicated. Moreover, everything he had now would vanish into thin air. He still remembered the painting that person had sent him. The higher one stood, the greater one's ability would be.
The young zhuangyuan was proud of his success, but he did not notice that there was a shady face in the crowd, looking at him with hatred. Jiang Chao reeked of alcohol as he looked at the lofty zhuangyuan. He stood even taller than before, his clear and arrogant eyes seemingly unable to contain anyone. Jiang Chao clenched his fists. Why?
He turned around and disappeared into the crowd.
On this day, the streets of the Great Jin Dynasty were empty, all to see the elegant demeanor of the young zhuangyuan. But one person had infiltrated the dormitory of the Imperial College.
Liu Min's dormitory had not yet been tidied up and was maintained in its usual state. Xiao Shao, dressed in a deep black brocade robe embroidered with Buddha heads and immortals, stood in front of Liu Min's desk. He reached out and picked up a letter on the desk.
There were only five words on it: Many thanks. Who are you?
Xiao Shao raised his eyebrows. Mo Cong had said that Liu Min was like a different person from a few days ago, and his views at the Palace Examination were even more different from before. A person's views would not easily change over a long period of time. Liu Min's personality was simply not suited to be an official. It was truly strange that he had been appointed the zhuangyuan.
For example, the letter in front of him stated that Liu Min only had a bedridden mother and no close friends in the Imperial College. This "who are you" was thought-provoking.
Xiao Shao pulled open the drawer in front of the desk. There was only a stack of books in the drawer. He pulled out the book at the bottom and removed the letter from the stack.
He saw the words written on it.
It seemed to be a discussion between ordinary scholars. The writing was reserved and did not appear smooth. At first glance, it was very similar to the Eighth Prince, Xuan Li.
But this person was definitely not Xuan Li.
Xiao Shao's gaze fell on the letter at the bottom. On it was clearly written: In the past, the Sages ruled the country with propriety. When the Sages passed away, the country declined. Propriety was the right way to rule the country. However, there was also a saying: Although propriety is good, it is difficult to control the people. Only by law can the world follow suit and there will be peace and prosperity.
He was slightly taken aback. His cold eyes flashed with sharpness.
This was the question of the Palace Examination. It seemed that someone had written this letter to Liu Min long before the Palace Examination. Who was this person? He must be someone close to the Emperor. Could there be a traitor in the palace?
But Liu Min was only a commoner. What good would it do to help him? Perhaps Official Zhao's bribery a few days ago had something to do with it. Xiao Shao put the letter away and said: "Brocade One, Brocade Two."
"Master." Two men dressed in black appeared in the room.
"Send a group of Brocade Guards to guard the Imperial College and follow the messenger." Xiao Shao said: "The two of you keep an eye on Liu Min."
"Yes."
Xiao Shao nodded. He turned his handsome face and happened to see a painting hanging in front of Liu Min's desk. The moonlight shone on the mountains and rivers, and the forest was dotted with fireflies.
He glanced at it, then turned and walked out of the dormitory.
The elegant demeanor of the Imperial College Scholar made many young girls in the Great Jin dynasty fall head over heels for him. That night, Jiang Ruan did not read. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi looked at each other. Lian Qiao said: "Today, I heard many servants in the fu say that the zhuangyuan is born with good looks and an elegant demeanor. He is indeed a talented person."
Bai Zhi glared at Lian Qiao: "Don't talk nonsense in front of Miss. Don't you have any shame? Could it be that you are lovesick?"
"Damned wench, see if I don't tear your mouth apart." Lian Qiao blushed and scolded jokingly: "I am happy now. The more the zhuangyuan is pleased, the more depressed that person will be. Thinking of this, I can't help but laugh."
"You can't say such things carelessly." Bai Zhi glanced at the door: "Don't forget that there are a few people outside. The walls have ears." She was referring to Shu Xiang and the others.
Jiang Ruan smiled slightly: "Second Brother is suffering now. I think he will go to the tavern to drink. Yesterday, the newly opened tavern in the east of the city is next to the capital's largest brothel, Bai Hua Lou. Today also happens to be the day that Miss Peony opens a box. Second Brother was defeated in the imperial examinations, so he must be proud of his love. However, Miss Peony's net worth is not low. Second Brother is rich and overbearing. I just don't know if the Jiang fu has the money to pay for Second Brother's beauty. "
Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi looked at each other and saw the amazement in each other's eyes. Jiang Ruan was a virtuous lady, but when she talked about the matters of the brothel, she was magnanimous. It made people feel uncomfortable.
As they were talking, Lu Zhu pushed the door open and entered. Seeing Jiang Ruan look at her, she took a few steps forward and half-knelt beside Jiang Ruan. She said in a low voice: "Miss, it's done. This servant let Da Niu follow Second Young Master to the tavern, and deliberately mentioned that Miss Peony loves gifted scholars. I think there shouldn't be any mistakes. "
Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. The Bai Hua Lou in the capital was a money-squandering establishment. Many rich young masters had spent their money there. Moreover, this Miss Peony was the top girl of Bai Hua Lou. Normally, she only sold her skills but not her body. She was both beautiful and skillful. Today was her opening day, and many people were looking forward to becoming her guest.
This Miss Peony also had another hobby, which was that she loved gifted scholars the most. If this person was especially talented, then he would naturally have good luck with women. Now that Jiang Chao had failed, and today, he saw how proud of himself Zhuangyuanlang was, it was likely that he was already depressed and indignant. Becoming Miss Peony's guest was perhaps the only way to make his heart feel better.
However, although Peony loved gifted scholars, she was also a person who dealt in the flesh business. It was not an exaggeration to say that one night was worth a thousand taels of gold, let alone the first night. How could Jiang Chao monopolize the night when so many noble young masters were fighting for it?
In her previous life, on the opening day of Miss Peony's contract, she was bought by Li Yang, the eldest son of Li Dong, a powerful official in the capital. Li Yang used ten bushels of pearls and five thousand taels of gold to buy Miss Peony's first night. Because of this, Miss Peony became famous in the capital and became the most expensive courtesan. In this life, it was unknown whether Jiang Chao had the money to compete with Li Yang.
Li Dong. Jiang Ruan smiled coldly. In her previous life, Pei 'er had died under his body. She would never forget that scene. Li Yang's appearance today was just the beginning. The death knell had just rung, and her revenge was finally about to begin.
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