This official is so weak

Li Wuting looked down at the two without moving or speaking for a moment.nZRAjOBLPyZmXRPYJBLnjELFCTQCka

NUBWcnYBjQNXTml

Finally, suppressing his tumultuous emotions, he spoke, “How did you get stuck?”NuBOUMlUOIcRxfDZSjmgjYOAfvUExX

ZmiGGXLZToRBoJt

Li Jingyu was still flailing about, trying to demonstrate, “Just like this… and then, Lord Ning,” he flipped his head, “it went like this.”XpqsaohkVlzwoRnJRCPJesrrQJXTNg

GYuKGKPgFOxbnrW

Ning Rushen carefully looked up, watching Li Wuting’s expression, “I realize my mistake and will accept any punishment later. Your Majesty, could you perhaps… help me pull it out first?”EsdqPcOTGKAFneuVuTUEdatEdQdSXx

lwHUNXhmGkmEtJO

Li Yingtang, who was watching, had already rolled up his sleeves, eager to try.SCzwKbvPqKbTLePndMZqOiVfuVMVgi

boBLbFovpsWoLGv

Li Wuting became even more annoyed, “Pull out what, do you no longer need your head?”mVqtdmIvVUmoQSglzMktBCqPlFABOw

faaGHyxKPTNikTx

Ning Rushen only saw a flash of bright light before his eyes.CkKFXOvDPPqUVHSUHdSwYuHxEnMcoW

okFwmYagDbEJhmg

The next second, a chilly breeze carrying the scent of pear blossoms fell.eOfxFGskGjwoPDImLnlGqOyoWzXvQA

iUkWyinwnEfSfIu

The sound of bricks breaking and falling could be heard, as if a gentle breeze had brushed past his ears.UBTXNcPYmgWNJDmjOwzzyDvXLetlll

ojoaPeWWxfmdHEh

Li Wuting stood before him, his imperial sword already sheathed, one hand propped by his head, his well-defined palm knocking on the broken carvings, breaking a piece directly from the gap.cZNhtvflOAtFWJfzlfIQaIOBAvfDJn

hCvIIUqkJYBVwuJ

Wall powder sprinkled down on him, dusting his nose.jUCOuNFrVLyuRyzpkrlqAeUUvmhrrm

yxAdFlaLUQHfShu

Ning Rushen looked up, blinking in confusion.GZlamksVikVNZbLrQUATLnGoIdcoSI

WCamgCUnkmNyCQJ

Li Wuting’s gaze lingered on his nose, his eyes calm and deep, “Why is it still hanging there?”ShqVYkvNnNzhGehTlRSWYZOZULjKqF

ZAdzpXpJfoThwAD

Ning Rushen, suddenly understanding, carefully stepped back.wrmCNvdGARicBqDVCkxlddFhtBXrfM

QcEZuVgUzvAaTWV

Seeing him as if reborn, Li Jingyu, stuck in a narrow window like a little carp, flapped, “What about me, Brother Emperor?”xhIsvLJQmLsSOFJCgmJJhyZJBLshYt

SIUFuWDqLSvtDfL

This time, Li Wuting did not use his sword.qmZWMKfvcqoEuYRPxZYWyrIAgcBQuZ

ojiqdlXoZSvvyWr

He chopped a part of the hollow carved wall, directly slamming his palm on the broken wall amidst the palace servants’ cries of “Your Majesty, no!”: Bang!wtHoURwiWZJKAcIoGzddmGtJMOuGYx

WXHZeCPicaiXdLi

Li Jingyu felt a release at his waist, and was then carried out by the palace servants.IzybsHcplgTMfuEDktqNOBmVZTUUkh

IiwSTcNerMDpmKr

He patted his clothes, “Thank you, Brother Emperor.”VtXYkWJtjIWwcyxxhAerKYbQmKYNdW

pKygAEnvZtIGrHg

Ning Rushen also bowed his head, “Thank you, Your Majesty.”GjIBqxOsIYAwSAqbxXJyyxSXEEIyRK

UxJRIlvxWzTiZRP

Li Wuting glanced at the two, flung his sleeve, and walked back to the previous courtyard, “Follow.”DBELjcSBDVQivPXhKFbWtQPojmtous

DDntfvHsyCpBVzj

The two shuffled behind him.EzefxSFJLepfdYBtbnzectalKHywsR

xiMfwhpwpreUfvq

Li Yingtang, waving his folding fan, hesitated to speak, glancing at Ning Rushen’s head, then hurried to catch up.byKbZlESbSTxonFLaeZvIdAqoFhOpW

FRxlMjnJmddcIbO

Li Wuting and Li Yingtang walked ahead.XCZGVPhErpRPgeiELPoyGaZpHNNOLA

iEQKRhlOaZRmzAN

Ning Rushen followed behind, his robe tugged again. He looked down to see Li Jingyu tiptoeing to whisper, “I told you the Emperor treats you differently, he saved you first.”WbFXvXTsLGzfNxfZpLWnknWmRSmUmj

gglSqPOGtVPHUYw

“…”zcJyPTlQEYWEUGkiFNwwmyLZOEHLSR

qEQCUCANrqLVUTe

Ning Rushen held up a strand of hair, showing him, “Is it sharp?” swept by the sword wind.pVkGpEwtERfHCaWpyWPYqZnPTNUTnd

AXJntEnaKUvnSwn

Li Jingyu examined it closely, “Hmm.”ehUfrXxgJvDjdyKeuZJhhMvkarbiGB

ydbeHxcUOEcuNRg

Ning Rushen sighed, patting the wall dust off Li Jingyu’s shoulder, “Your Highness is still young, we cannot afford a mishap. It’s not that His Majesty prioritizes differently in his heart.”faeqAIxtvwwSlCRNaVTtpPNMOHOfsR

kuQDcUKjCztYNuE

He looked ahead; Li Wuting’s hand by his side was turning red.HRNMwCWtcYzAGtybTrGGIpmHGepklt

epCJujfcPPOFjtE

Li Jingyu seemed to understand and nodded.EigsJVqcttAGYgDkjxFmbdtcfCxxPQ

FwvcyhhWIpNyNTO

Ahead, Li Wuting spoke lightly, “Tomorrow, have that wall in your courtyard removed. Don’t keep such dangerous things in the mansion.”yCCVEEdTFdNMhntXzTWJKkCAiiTZmI

VifNoyQHBDfwDpW

Li Yingtang was shocked!ojTJGsYZFzPlXbCrSDgnXmgvqmSKcY

hcHYHstBSuvhCeN

It was the first time he realized a carved wall could be dangerous!gfxYnEZvdWCNztpTnbSfDentuhmbOy

imAVwCAntGlGAYJ

Ning Rushen listened from behind, sleeve in hand and eyes shifting:gEEiolHVPnkkFZKTCpMULWyWaltGfM

sOOLoGYIqmLkFBH

In this world, there are no dangerous walls.nRtDjkRWJaOOgFQlmPcNNZgDKcVfay

hPmLQTtQoppHWuR

But when people keep squeezing through, it becomes a dangerous wall.CuyEGjowAAKiGpABnQEimTcMfVvkUm

SGMRwfYxUElAiAd

·FSykVeXceboeTNOCzhBibbsqcFjJuT

omdVtHjRnhBeBWX

Everyone returned to the courtyard.ZOObhiRlGiZtGlOOjpRSYbkwFymfEA

YSBjdLNgbhPrQrA

Li Wuting sat down behind the stone table, and Xuang Wang also took a seat.BijHwNzTzcJVeHhonZQUGjmvrYbWZi

AmvhVycJriFrUwf

Ning Rushen and Li Jingyu stood in front, earnestly admitting their fault and listening to the reprimand.RRAxqhLaUaNrdLnyPjJpLggyhgldoT

zVfesUbTpIwjxmF

Although Li Wuting was annoyed, fortunately, the two hadn’t caused a big mess. Considering their past actions, he wasn’t particularly surprised or upset this time.lzZFGiZXKrTFoPDxMsKxQSMosvzvmv

goLPlXyUhphCAge

After lecturing them, Li Wuting stopped talking.zDZFtRBdNHQmfDKckRpoMVnghnVVQE

GrvfTxwHKXUKOir

He moistened his lips with tea, then his gaze softened as he looked at Li Jingyu. Something seemed to cross his mind, his eyes slightly narrowing:dfOlKqrnreGkQyYjugOucnSniGCORV

EvaFLMUfMRKoLbk

“Jingyu, be more cautious.”lyxezvlhRstVhwNiijEgVbQIiIBcxp

GZKiJudZpnIVjqM

Li Jingyu, feeling the weight of that look, stiffened, “Yes, Brother Emperor.”viBMWxtkaVvbHEQMZqDWRuZEpJaIDJ

xbLrTwrIUjJjFDu

Ning Rushen caught the expression between them, his thoughts settling.XxIPmQTKIUSrSRVMblLkodDydKbpnq

qINHNziOfVkUWae

At that moment, the gaze turned towards him, “And you.”uQdFBGNvZMiUdQzjpAcTyWcVBXDXtY

AdEtHuVXOxvduXQ

Ning Rushen snapped back to reality, “Hmm?”tZkhetPDXOaTFafSYGMCitSBAolNHj

efBmDPpfLfDbfHR

Li Wuting looked sternly, his fierce brows furrowing, “You’re all grown up, yet you still lack judgment.”ClfRkVdpsPgDGofnBkUxJqIzOvSaVU

zgjMCNUFFyrUkVj

Ning Rushen reflected, “Indeed, for someone my size, it’s fitting that I got stuck.”zuXPSycmlgnsnvmKfUiyuzaVJffIjY

dvHPoyBUIShTEhk

He lamented, “It was a lapse in my judgment… a mistake!”uEAEczBwBgYszttGZAPXwvQumUVbxF

yoQIwTptmiQVTgT

Li Wuting, “…”QsjKRvSbLwzPYIetgKqJZzQkwgBYwB

jDKadImuscKGvIj

Li Yingtan’s expression twisted as he asked, “Is this the discretion you had in mind?”UNkHgyqcyjKQHZeoJSmDDZsrkqnMvO

ZILesHaqCHYxRsM

There was a pause in front of the stone table.YyEbziEeGLcLVnNnHdNKcJxpSvtCfA

tPOyaDHmzHqVahc

Still unable to hold back, Li Yingtan leaned in and whispered to Li Wuting, “Your Majesty, are you sure you want to appoint Lord Ning as the examiner?”ELKIHELaFctZcvXUeEMTdSVYpscXqn

dOpvvTuJgQDYhnO

The fingers resting on his knee hesitated slightly.LnXdYOaEyPvuUapSmZpPgkLpRzKhpw

tODdCcrgmLMDYdg

Finally, in defense of his own statement, Li Wuting pursed his lips, “His mind, occasionally works.”VELPOXBZOUVKVcCbtKqSzTwIiNNfhG

gQwWBiWvDVVuWex

Li Yingtan implied deeply, “You really trust him…”ZsQBxKNuIdmdeKtitfsRwZDUOhWmdg

BEdOcbvnUqkcbxQ

After the meeting ended, Ning Rushen and Li Jingyu finally sat down.XMGsmuiNwBhxygVGWaWfBxqmoONpjH

aCNqSKLeEwuaOVS

Servants attended to them in the mansion, and the brothers chatted over tea in a sporadic conversation.RPWwXuGMQnAaADNuhgGQhjhEAwuMpR

lPPsFvvygCumfTP

Sitting there, Ning Rushen suddenly felt Li Wuting’s gaze frequently landing on him. He turned to look, their eyes met,KFbpNmWGsehLTsBKeNSxRuORsRCyom

EvNFmgOtfyFqJgw

“What is it, Your Majesty?”TVvyECtVbNvIXytsfevilJGugxPPwB

QavCbZoElJhjvLv

Li Wuting paused, “Mind your appearance.”JpFEkcuJORwZjmcVXKunzaUerXXznn

WQxIpOGsAXvgyGv

Ning Rushen: ?bVfEhkMIrIqtpqtIAmWdNfQFwGnRHF

PZpJCamXtbbtIvP

He reached up to adjust his hair.JtAEVrBFNtbsAcKVAlllZnllbMClXy

lnWbGUgurlxFwxZ

Li Wuting frowned, pursed his lips, “Not that…”roPDqbNiTKnhqeOlcpgGSOfZQhIIhF

DmCMOxqEoeDWfAL

Suddenly, a head popped up in front of him.RoBGBohHOjlwRrCbkSrjJJZzpzUtyB

taqlSbWsVcNFBAM

Li Jingyu leaned in close to Ning Rushen to take a closer look, then noticed a faint trace of wall plaster on the tip of Ning’s nose.ouNwvAylxZNQGibUhgnJMskXwaYlnz

MctKBfYzaVzewuy

Ning Rushen’s skin was very fair, and with the sunlight filtering beautifully through the branches above, casting a dappled light on his eyelids and nose, the plaster was almost invisible.uEAQoByAqLvJBvAZJnyqidZrIjNiYq

lKxwoBahUbGItmr

Li Jingyu slapped his hand lightly, “Lord Ning, you’ve got something on you.”PkkAXVdDRALYUbzHJRJBlgUXaeNWCM

FiUllnHchBgpSDQ

Ning Rushen, realizing, “Thank you, Your Highness.”BzqRRyHbtLTCncjrxTETbEnvMLByxJ

cFuvFwqBrXvSwfx

He touched his nose and looked at Li Wuting again in surprise:OLygUodMGxWntlRjoIkyoLCKOzghlB

BXNOWAGLTLvIkSK

This detection ability, more intelligent than the robotic vacuum cleaners he had at home.jYmBVuROQqtIsvSKIDvqOmTIZimrwb

HgRvtMiZGKJOOoj

…EIptwsDdcPAGtOtBGYNsZauhMSFPPq

qDuLWQmXlyOErit

Soon, it was time to dine.vzIqmpOMdDRNgmFDzEvFlXDpkcXKRB

tIewilMFczpmKTZ

Prince Xuan, known for his refined taste, set the banquet right in the courtyard, enjoying the spring scenery while dining.vfsXjStXnLuTlSTjwLusFLqLUaNAal

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Royals were always attended by servants during meals.LrmvNMojSfaLUubZZQceGGwsjnSaNa

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De Quan arranged the dishes for the emperor, while other servants attended to the two princes.angnRXLQKZuAaaElkZtMJQraNIzfiM

czZwIPfhnPqVjRh

Ning Rushen, asserting independence, sat across from Li Wuting.eBEGNJfHzTjRJeJiqTaMYEmSfErJFK

xiDixjTVEzjFWPf

The dishes at the prince’s mansion were exquisitely prepared, appealing in color, aroma, and taste.soEHibTRjTPdIJSTwJQrSIqGeVmtry

wGoaMimGXfCIWVm

As Ning Rushen was deeply engrossed in eating, he suddenly met De Quan’s disapproving gaze:CYsUeOppCAnmTZeYpvNUVNQQdzJztL

VUVxkqZICyIJoje

Are you competing with His Majesty for food!JpxJYBjLIBKYqbwfHDwivqeyYQhVTH

ZKFBHnkbwjPVFpz

Aren’t you going to serve him?ypHUbZkjYOrPJdqwJpoQinJHEclaUP

CpEpTCkwuDPdeJr

“…”iOHGZehBzGNfBCvymgZbDfzBOIPOcp

ltoCNJLDoohFFRv

Indeed, having just annoyed Li Wuting and then being miraculously saved from the wall, he felt he ought to make a gesture.iDzSnsaylbARpFBnRsPAQFNTpANwoq

oTiXhExsEVYWzwd

Ning Rushen smoothly got up, “I shall serve His Majesty.”FdGrSuleULIOmqKSjynNrVyjBBTdSZ

WDHINsyJLuRIZJJ

Li Wuting looked over.HQsFWTPwqglGtgpXWPwekNwWcaFskO

gitFriKngPdtPle

Ning Rushen rolled up his sleeves, stretched across the table, and with trembling hands, picked up a piece of jelly with public chopsticks and placed it into Li Wuting’s bowl.YriKQGvMfawOFubIaDxPyXlhgqgyJJ

VXVJPEHaKyRsmpg

Li Wuting, “………”xNqLjVpjlXtbDyNBeYstATKnieVwFr

XJJHouwfKwaAHlr

De Quan closed his eyes tightly in frustration: Why can’t you come around! Is there a hedge of thorns around His Majesty?TfMAPqwSKNTlDRjLOHBiXOMUVJdjHa

GWqAwIjpnSnhgqV

Li Wuting, observing Ning Rushen’s full stretch across the table, “Lord Ning, your way of serving dishes looks like an assassination attempt.”eOOSmFepnvNFZeQtVdxHStgREWsxnH

WdJZKNXuOoPDkRn

Embarrassed, Ning Rushen withdrew his chopsticks.IVGaCpzRRtWwEMLrPdNBmtMenUXhov

EcWltYpipTVZXPR

Li Wuting pinched the bridge of his nose, “Stop serving, eat your own meal.”thLGeoitETAezAYehUZEXGihVFPCsC

tcZNYvjokBIKQQg

Ning Rushen, taking up his bowl, obeyed, “Yes.”rJiCZYmlmQZYcFxxCmZQoXluZGSBzD

bKpsWkFGeNyWHgL

…lGhUMvmyEdzSZKhZGVlhCSeAorDUMo

hWXBcYhLyjYyWHh

The banquet at the mansion ended.BYKtTkEoPkznGLWOpolgxQsZJdfRhw

nmEVyJgIRrDRRBR

Relying on emotional ties, Prince Xuan stayed a bit longer.rCZfFBfWQrdDXePVuqbQUayhJcTwxz

pbqVroBQZnpHFCg

With the civil service exams at the end of March, the list announced in April, and an interview added in between, the final stage was likely not until mid-May.cFkiADkEqmqSPfHSbNQPiaUhFMqZPD

sXCEyUVrPuSmOgQ

Ning Rushen calculated: Prince Xuan could stay quite a while longer.uYyFiYcWsYjxYZQDfNDayTCehbTUHq

gGYDRBbzAROVMlf

As one of the examiners, he also needed to familiarize himself with the processes at the Ministry of Rites and participate in preparations.bCguBBEXbjkBLkxMWknOByZvSYnLLt

WpvUdyHkNxkVdRD

As the exam approached, the frequency of tasks increased.TJvywhugXCrOjPotcIrPmaBXSYsPFB

ndLJMiZIwpWXVFz

In the course of these events, Ning Rushen became familiar with Huo Mian and the Minister of Rites, Guan Fan, both also examiners.yjNhoEoIMNcQDxwYQSVGcUfpfvqFME

vDjTjfNVJyZvzcg

The three shared a common hobby: voracious eating.gHJCUfAoEBQLitWXUFAgGAwFGkIHMa

ncYeHYHMMYzlher

The Ministry of Rites was well-funded, offering good meals.BNmZwUTRpQlOCWTvIcMiaGJnoGFoIT

DSoLPnOjLlYpnzF

Even Ning Rushen, a self-proclaimed slacker, reported daily, always arriving punctually at meal times.XvlIsLhwqqRatOklyykoXoSVlQvimz

VSuXOZqzIPLXvcG

Minister Guan was quite welcoming, “Lord Ning, feel free to come by. We’ve got plenty at the Ministry of Rites.”hlWFISVvaOeUeKYEqeNYYyjmoDaJBq

ledeLmlguighMqY

Ning Rushen happily, “That’s wonderful.”zptAfZuBadzjDdvltqCnarpPIlaAGZ

oSdhirytFOcHSFK

During this time, he encountered many impolite people; the name ‘Ministry of Rites’ alone seemed to promise a sense of decorum.dOKTvPKRuAkSkZCddwwQmKTcumjELr

fgAViEzrdnJtKms

Plus, the leader’s name literally meant ‘manage food’.DRhMQOzHStivjbYnfXttaEPXsLEjPu

uVxaCiQDlyTWHPO

It all sounded very encouraging.exNhHxacoXcWhnPYXizPXMABqthbbP

yRClMwWgQZgWudT

His longing was too evident, prompting Minister Guan to say, “It’s a pity you’re already serving in the imperial presence, otherwise I could transfer you to the Ministry of Rites.”sNoSmhRTDwaBmWHuImSGAtDQFPhSDu

HcsRAJdxpsZmYzv

Minister Guan, already warming to the idea, rubbed his hands together, clearly plotting.rReoxvxXpoViAixxKAIMyeLtCjHsGH

EuTvEoXChbKwqNv

Ning Rushen choked, “No, no, no… that would be too much trouble for Minister Guan.”RuMrOdrqwLXeIcufrOYaeKlJQhyFfj

ouCujTKtnQkcWnC

“It’s no trouble at all. Moving people around is common practice among the ministries,” Minister Guan assured.mGbvCVFgFLcZlMKlCfEDpdZXkFDnlH

OwiXMKURqXWLSGC

“……”EtOSsnPNxDdjpeRtoNrQsTrmCkkkRT

LBQjiXRRNGOnroV

The two exchanged a few more pleasantries.BlYHNWTsFHuHvJNKOydXkbDqWGpPdu

TEOgLdExZDbyezn

At this moment, Huo Mian, who had been focused on eating, finished his bowl of rice, slapped his thigh, looked up, and exclaimed, “Is there such a good thing? Why not invite this general to the Ministry of Rites as well! Ah, another bowl, please.”kZUzPSmEnVfeVqFdPfjbKXopLnXdld

PJEITgKcWsPRRyJ

Ning Rushen remained silent. To those unaware, one might think Huo Mian had returned from fleeing a famine in the northern border.ssiPqvQYWvhfOygXdIiuZWNignHVpJ

xBaOZQBZqKkYZsk

…UZRMYXzMIslWmQnkkeHDtvmdoSuzdM

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After several busy days at the Ministry of Rites, Ning Rushen finally found some free time.vhPIOiIFkVZdYyTaJvmvgnVkccWUjq

LDSkfEVYewWdFrt

He returned to the emperor’s presence after a long absence following his duties. He entered the imperial study with familiarity but soon noticed a subtle atmosphere—BbZEmNzIZySwUDDkdvKlGJTMOlflTr

VMPcwYdrykrfbzq

Emperor Li Wuting appeared unchanged at first glance.UxckvYmjteUCwNLUmWZQQTLCGosdVt

TbPnHXRomKtzuka

The subtlety mainly came from De Quan’s eyebrows, which seemed to be squeezing together as if each hair was exerting effort.DzpWhWMTpVBgFxVMRMLxLQJdBYIbSV

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Ning Rushen was puzzled. He had been diligent recently; what was the issue now?mAssvRnJTOlMMzdUbezGADZqEVRwbU

DPIwvsoWAXCalrI

Ning Rushen glanced at De Quan and approached, “This official greets Your Majesty.”WTNUwjvQBPlMIrMYnPxSmJKZRyqEiz

ZVqQSClkqDbfgUW

Emperor Li Wuting, without looking up from his memorials, asked, “How busy has the Ministry of Rites been?”nBeHEOwdjVyGsSWseQDXZKCMfVFBOv

nbQuLtRNeskAPdN

“Very well, all preparations are going smoothly.”yxicUnUKvRHAcofkzvqVhOwUGIxdzR

GNrlzDRrMrqbGTR

“Hmm, is the budget still sufficient?”JMVvgoNyYyCAqbCAyKejsDKtKjHOSu

mVkrVufxTVNevqS

“Your Majesty, it is sufficient.” Every meal had meat.xngFeBqUgyvOrVkFySJXvkmoztwQQv

SMUxnYPvtzyZNnm

After discussing these official matters, Ning Rushen noticed that Emperor Li Wuting’s expression seemed satisfied, which slightly eased his concerns.qxheRkWzHYpPMPQoGubrTEAjbEflya

PrixORwlmhSxKcX

Perhaps he was being overly sensitive.AzzQeZUxjYjxRCLvBbfrLZvnFQjLyQ

aCmMpjwDbfpOMBI

He was too guarded against De Quan’s glances and gestures.jgABhNVshJSEEaQrdYgfCYkCjtQgMy

AwNBHRwwGiUMXau

Just as he thought this, he suddenly heard Emperor Li Wuting ask, “The atmosphere in the Ministry of Rites is good?”LNBRnUbWfInLUGpBWlSjZsVILQjZNY

TwKPmprAxPZYrvC

Ning Rushen, not one to speak ill of his colleagues, nodded, “Like a family.”WdwpXicsuOhjBOdCmMPbfWjuvVCUlP

lIfKhdohvkuHhIa

Emperor Li Wuting chuckled, throwing a memorial at him, “No wonder they have come to ask me to allow your whole family to reunite.”rRfsMVOzLVIMBuwGsCHrrMhfYhmJjx

GHpFvRyaxbAjGcQ

Ning Rushen was puzzled.NHWFwXVmMpLrddWCOmOVJYxGIaLTrA

ECYSeZCvQKTRNCE

A sense of foreboding surfaced as he picked up the document and took a deep breath—Minister Guan actually sought to transfer him!hTHJytbMCwzktxDHfBRhEUqYpnbaPa

FyLAUnxzECpiEFo

And he mentioned that “General Huo also has such desires.”ZkOnKHSWMDHxnHZMSHsgnqjbiFPlkV

yXLfJFrnqpdrdzO

Ning Rushen was shocked—LQiYdOQSPhvAtbzegUDHQdHUkdnlaO

ABZRYrJlDxflQrr

Not only were they trying to poach from the emperor, but they were also attempting to entice the great General of Dingyuan to the Ministry of Rites!DYzSkofMIcbcahbIOGJIXJbfebgBJs

GEWNkcZVbxjKXLz

What for, to build a fortress in the Ministry of Rites?qVIpVhWgYFhYDzboVZamCYDQcDFwVd

mODXGdadMiKqipL

…It turns out the most impolite person was the Minister of Rites!eXgJtfJWKFHzMkVqcLaEjDBqJpviXv

FuQqWrcfKNtbYqU

He moistened his dry lips and, holding the memorial, looked towards Emperor Li Wuting.injZhnPtnkDGbeglOhjfOnssAfzwOB

MmarsvpEvyCseyY

Emperor Li Wuting seemed to smile, “The Ministry of Rites is very good, even the top scholars and warriors love the food there.”jgqXkKWWrLrhpVobeRbAcVZiEBmJdt

fUOMaZcJHHrHQrH

De Quan was frantically signaling with his eyes: Deny it now!YuujYzHwLFCwoJVrPgQWMViaZmdMzE

fBMuQWnQuqLqgfN

Ning Rushen quickly denied, “I am not confined to the Ministry of Rites.”dKITcPvwadwKIONTzlxjtCrSCgKrkD

cPCNdGIYBgGgGOS

Emperor Li Wuting, “…”DGYDMYSDsDIxKVaDKYLzsWdGcmMwUP

kjWMWCLSIxKtskN

He tapped his fingertips on the desk, producing two crisp sounds, “Oh, a feast from all homes, I had forgotten.”DgqkEvuUtIJmLQqptoEOqtPAMCjQZP

GcfxkxyJhqdQFqv

Ning Rushen hurriedly tried to recover, “I am merely dedicated to my work, busy with the imperial examinations.”eeEGgYjbLkghTDWhgKfUrKTxRyyPme

EcGsxvJyaTPHNwL

Emperor Li Wuting did not respond, as if quietly listening to his bluffs.WjoDptqQhFayFAGdtqQvhpCUShgWpr

iAPVDWyyJEDEVYm

Ning Rushen then changed the subject, “By the way, Your Majesty, about last time—” he paused, considering De Quan and the surrounding courtiers, vaguely said, “The matter at Moon Fairy Residence, how is it?”ZrxYWThzYVuaOSjIFReYzWcQcKaWJD

lGbpdSGSYOuaXqU

This time, Emperor Li Wuting responded, “As usual.”QqrMQMuOWuPasezxQapimwbXqzgjpD

xThCorXigyZYkkn

His response, “as usual,” meant he was still letting the situation unfold naturally.QPvzrkHDOppuHRIMZqQqLQIeoMmIru

GAViNDJOPyJseHs

“Hmm.” Ning Rushen pondered.PnrKRboNwtAoTCWCQUwyXmYwFmSKfy

LUXFTkwfYtYgnyJ

Cheating on the imperial exams was a serious crime, one that could permanently strip a candidate of the right to hold official qualifications. Even if it turned out the candidate had purchased fake exam questions, they would suffer in silence.VqhYsLWHoTGJflPPEVCWRwDbRUfSyo

TefvdbrcckhmpjC

Without someone coming forward, Emperor Li Wuting would not likely expose it himself.XuqiPfKEtwCbFGKTpYWVkLhFZdYGvh

sGNaybwSTbRbmnV

Whatever his reasons, knowingly overlooking it could attract criticism.SCBwxIFXwZrKzntHQbwFyMAgchJKWF

LZYlGuvWPmMqEvv

“What are you thinking?” Emperor Li Wuting asked.moAHbJbvMMZqZelGtGXWZFLlZFkLda

edsqpaWiYLYNqKM

Ning Rushen probed, “How will this matter ultimately be revealed?”haHCCTNEuSFUSINKHmcCOSTCKWMiQE

AXjUKberxPyVbaT

Emperor Li Wuting appeared calm, “No need to worry, someone will expose it.”KuEYSqrmhQYVYlRPsAdiIzXFPhVIEy

gmedgrrYvTQZvII

“?” Ning Rushen stared at his expression, sensing that Emperor Li Wuting seemed to anticipate an event not yet occurred, “…Someone arranged by Your Majesty?”DcktOJGFbSvJPdDUjFYXKwrwEtcfNZ

pPRqekLDNisNpor

Emperor Li Wuting’s lips moved as if about to speak, then he suddenly looked towards him.GLXuCdfRqhPfpvbtdOMYiCPdPcXVDF

tyIfUlpbTbnCjDt

Suddenly, he smiled, “Want to know?”GyhYavIxjVBSIWWRRTNzgPnsVpeKgv

XtiAyJpNqUAHXIX

Ning Rushen nodded.ckRbEdzAYnwMGvUyRUluCSqJiBYeOv

LHKMAzIrgieXiDy

Emperor Li Wuting said, “Come closer.”pnZsiKYRUfTOdQikNUJCeVAqgafCCX

MVrqAIjMshuPgOi

De Quan and the courtiers were still nearby.zpgEwviPOUYywfNtjTAWZdvVUCtNRW

cWjMwrxQPoGxvwm

Ning Rushen guessed that Emperor Li Wuting wanted to speak privately, so he moved closer, “Yes, Your Majesty.”ZTIBEkzAuhMioFnsxuUgzrbdTJRZsT

hdMFFtukJDoFkeP

He walked around the imperial desk to Emperor Li Wuting’s side.wXypogvUqObMNvXoAXbrLKXVkTmYgQ

hIxmPvJTpPZYJqf

The emperor sat upright in his chair, and Ning Rushen leaned on the edge of the desk, leaning forward. His black hair and crimson sleeve piled upon the emperor’s dragon robe.SYTnsLXSZOFGOCiwqlDrqIQvWfeqZB

bpboAgYamRdfuwJ

His falling hair strands covered the outer half of his face.MInMiXlATQBYYTYwWLlvLpDNHzHYLN

tXdpgxfItulbUQH

De Quan and the courtiers couldn’t see what was hidden behind the hair, and the courtiers respectfully lowered their heads, daring not to look.iwJRBFxNPgLSKdZFIafLsHJVooIRVB

nPxHLmKsnrQokAp

Ning Rushen leaned in close to Emperor Li Wuting.sBPfrOPOijthzyduPTyMmRETacpCIh

cMOrHkGPOJvDQhT

Li Wuting lowered his eyes and noticed a luminous white earlobe adorned with a red mole fluttering beneath the eyelid.NmvABDNDsHkUfSaMwEXlVxBMHlYyAq

PXciTchRzfvgaJK

He tapped the desk with his fingertips, then chuckled softly as if amused.iWPFzbkygxkYWkOgVCzTUOFJglVYFL

dKEHAaQoKdRRxsO

“Guess for yourself.”jNbUGuFtITSTYfWvLjbOgypzCFfOow

nhxgFpdCYbhfxbX

“…!” Ning Rushen shivered from the warm breath, enduring the nonsense response.ZdJssLNnMAWQYaAmqMnNlWHThKKgzs

nfahFFDiIgfsjDb

He instantly bristled, turning his head in astonishment: Is that even human speech!?AQmjqAedtsKSpjTYNvJUKgpcFCwREN

DrYibRtvXDOimfj

De Quan sneakily squinted towards them.mewkOiUArvUvizhRVKugbuRkdYzSbT

yHhkeOLLQYYfgYX

Just then, he saw the emperor lower his eyes with a smile, and immediately Ning Rushen’s eyes shot up, his face flushed red, his bright eyes filled with a mix of surprise and anger.LECZiLcuODALGvtFXlhafoHERHGWDU

sZBJBAUJsFrLQTd

De Quan: Hiss… Ouch～PVPStWFgTyHIsnHGesCwsIeueFazRz

mWESxwppiZcbvrP

Such was the scene in the imperial study, quite… quite beneficial indeed!YFznIqYViOYsaCnTxLUCsUbLFthGrv

YkfnDMlpTXdLWOa

Behind the desk, after Li Wuting dismissed the officials, he turned and closed the memorandum that the Minister of Rites had just handed him, throwing it aside.nJcpSZLZLyFOQJWFYknPUlGwlqBgTB

WbyLvVZsUnJfToN

“Go now, think it over.”ZHzISbuiATtKTWyNFugipWTzYzRpVC

WzQKlkPjyEPfGlQ

Ning Rushen took a deep breath, grinding his teeth, “…Yes, Your Majesty.”nMcwBXyKnwfdQEdTumWygfgyIhuGiw

axSTruBewPzmhZD

He left, his ears red hot.pjKposqTswFDlIVorfNdeexJbzJWgL

FEmHzzVbFQDcWiS

·XbDBSXHiHwrjQcolvZghgvllaYbtQY

qLbkbzzHepAzBsG

Returning to his residence, Ning Rushen’s ears had cooled down, but he still felt a lingering warmth that made his tailbone tingle.lYeBpwxbOrkNuObBlodVwtKvrTwuVL

EKWbymNTfcUSiJs

He recalled the heated phrase from Li Wuting that wasn’t quite human speech.CHBuxTTTwbpTUYVQeOCWrUhzQxLfhx

pvfpgzcDYyxaZNv

Thinking hard but unable to decipher it, Ning Rushen sat in front of the desk in his room for a while, then looked up and called out, “Xiaoshi.”kBEOPOIDoLcUtahTtknarNkdPQelhz

mOAJjcnBXqEMwsU

All was quiet above the beams.IQZQyDNRSUtZUnJCMfsNmIeIbWvwId

QeXzaLtsKGQCmjB

He paused for a moment, then snapped, “Pata.”sxykaoKfhjDNJkPYTdnPOrHnfSUfKm

zKDxuUOvlZpvWsz

A figure immediately swooped down, standing before him.OmFHSNNlyHYWbMiHcaWCxHwywaxQAL

ZXTnOgpRODSIDxu

Ning Rushen: …Do you insist on responding to “pata”?iDPdIpMZcbxlHXZvjdSwpnGFOWzNUQ

LpPfNuxZfhEwmsy

Shiyi asked, “What do you need?”zKfBTAoBcesITWjRnxfXzKWweKUeYF

abTlXmTKZMfSilq

Ning Rushen needed information, “Besides following me, has your gang leader assigned you any other tasks?”OCRgIoFZrAZnKwOugoaevPsiZOpkgL

YQXKvbtHYinnXIs

Shiyi hesitated, “…Our leader only instructed me to follow you, nothing else. I haven’t seen the leader for a long time.”eeNIzhkXZTcBXqgVdRnMifowzsLMBm

ZLMHxQdJVnTuUHs

Ning Rushen asked, “Haven’t you been in contact with your other colleagues?”RwRvlmhRSbrzcwJFKakgJNhTGMiugv

PILALFNtfsxsomm

“No. Why do you ask?”ekRvkBGtZkSKygiRGTpzywPXHpKcDD

qyNhPRVIYuGyzrB

“Just saw one of your colleagues working as a waiter in an inn a few days ago.”FCihBcVbBVggMktyIXINMBPzHbSmYV

hMhxiatkJTAwbMQ

A faint sympathy crossed Shiyi’s face, “Those are just odd jobs.”SGnoEByOwnnpZvKGUiXUptvWxCuBxV

irxYBJAqrRFyVsx

Ning Rushen sighed in frustration: …At least they have jobs.ielbesmmwAcxGgSMEuEsOsGwfcNGXa

TzTuyPjtNtqiSxe

Are you sympathizing with someone who was dismissed?iKVRzBceaIcXXzJdxJqLsFDomMfJCd

UzkpwnXbleVLrok

Unable to gather any useful information, Ning Rushen dismissed him. Before Shiyi left, Ning Rushen stopped him again, “One last question.”bMcaJdzmSuGePfJSHvoNunOTepfeiR

CvIJFxiodLoDoYj

Shiyi, “?”sMremZVeeZgzwXQSJNWiMprifLdkOk

rcUOfCiQTRsQpNH

Ning Rushen, pinching his ear, asked, “Does your gang leader have any peculiar hobbies?”BiUKIsWcROZvijpSfYzqefWeRBhJAa

PHVhmTyUevRiWDj

Shiyi disagreed, “Our leader is very serious.”ImSHJgaDMyIsIXkrpEOdiWvPBmEcpG

anPdoqOjKdGMTut

Ning Rushen waved him away.jweAhoimBMPnLCIlxqXWDKQXdHKUvv

aMMGgISIdksDQyM

…qyByHJKqkSUEHeNPHlupsyvxLMGegH

izsmjcgjZxJYyuH

Unable to guess Li Wuting’s intentions, he decided to stop worrying about it.CObusHQkuBxbYkxVeaNkWBkFKResTt

HgDrCCWmXUMdMmT

As the month drew to a close.rsiOczmIUUmhxdSnQbmUQptIPJBCFZ

bPDvWlxGMjVPSZq

The postponed imperial examination finally arrived amid strict preparations.WWLyXjRHyscjJNfMfyNbOZYDISgdGo

SbqKCpCrMfDwuuL

The exam lasted nine days and six nights.HinfVJMVnIWzogwGGzKDuivbHcTkUo

cRWBuExWaSfDFQy

Ning Rushen was only responsible for the interview afterward, not the nine days of testing. He occasionally went to the imperial study to attend to duties and mooched meals from the Ministry of Rites.CNpkEMPBRycNtzCKrBSEvvfoxQeYIo

RCJajwlYhgHpVlV

He exemplified the spirit of various scholars.kvCUaYwyrsaifBQLPOBaQVXFfkGSwY

rmIjQBTIzUEcyYk

This continued until the end of the examination.ObZTirGopxtTOnczJhAHllQehgTFnw

kDLlnQjxtHrocmO

Like the early spring thawing the long winter, the students were temporarily freed from their exams, planning outings in the capital’s night markets and along the riverbanks.ooXpZJEHWXBcpChoOGEWhtHxMkUgKH

TJfzESGLjSftvgt

Many set up seats along the Huaiming River to discuss classics and poetry, earning widespread praise.zDBBQnStFOltUTJtMFkuJYuWPHtxbg

ODCTXqMzBKxlEUh

—It was a tradition of the great state.RGhDPrMWYZbpJWVcOIMwgwghBTqeQU

YAwALogoknbVriq

Ning Rushen had received an invitation from Geng Yan days before, suggesting they go boating together.XrlbnJnamMpJKaBMzAWevTCLqApqGd

KNwONfGjFddJxKR

When the exams ended, estimating the time to leave, he glanced at the water clock in the corner of the imperial study.IFAqHFyMKoAcfEoiCGzvZByranbQIE

rmJLLmaixRzVSyE

The clock was unclear, and he instinctively leaned forward.EmgjoKobjHsKcEMIIFRpZkzyTspwCE

lenIKFpkrIPhLxt

Li Wuting looked up, “Ning minister eager to return?”gKYNslEsAaYAvxxAnuCVoGJYEhyOrt

XeBtoUEbIYwTinJ

Ning Rushen retracted his neck, “How could that be? I was just seeing how long Your Majesty has been working.”YHJSmznSkRKGWbEasgvxsKCRoWLvhV

myRfEuXlHcFrUDD

Li Wuting chuckled.cwueVunFfjjvRvVAtBJMjnOqMHmtdV

tOGqnQUFzILUxfI

After a pause, he waved, “Alright, go.”bjZYSMTHSymLIqvWchgKUeMFdWvxjy

XYfanOFHDlmkWFu

Ning Rushen thanked him and quickly left.wbpBBVNvAsYRJbNYMEztWOvngairRt

MIrFNpMCBrBLFKZ

Outside the palace gate, Geng Yan was already waiting, rubbing his hands together eagerly.utVwVmikpUYjnLXgjrCpbpHswwhgSz

sNtfnnsnxIVzavL

Upon seeing Ning Rushen, he pulled him over, his spirits high, “Come on, former top scholar, let’s shake things up! Let’s show these fledglings straight out of their scholarly nests how it’s done!”eHpOxCNNfBboZphwpYBCGoOVmWBzCH

dlDAEwQrjghavhR

Ning Rushen shook his head, “Listen.”ncXAKDCRvmArjDLsDqzAXBFEpWreAG

fizPQgCItsIzSlp

Geng Yan leaned in to listen closely, “What? I can’t hear anything?”gKySdRtsEnRPdIehLJAFeyHtUfuYsP

tPHrrYwrdXwPXDt

“That’s right, because it’s empty.”dbRspCbtlcAKjpMdaOQEEezrBiLWdT

GkLWOASIPwUnXXm

“…”IiPzRiFpsdzUqKKdbWfPNbpFbBfvqy

YfXicyVbLVytcVq

Geng Yan looked at him with a complex expression, finally sighing and tugging at his sleeve, “Then let’s just join in the fun, and stock up for you.”oiLZmytuagEtwhuuQMouLcmsCwjzpl

nkiJzeZqSyotHnK

·wijTYAmmXIVpPZyDyjhhcWCQmDmFPI

kgmVSDknCilhDEO

As dusk fell and the lanterns were first lit.ZUdMaSPzXfEoYbDICnsLjAlyveFOMa

aMqEepBybGowMCj

The capital’s taverns were bustling with patrons, and the lively streets were busy with people coming and going, their robes brushing against each other.PtcdeGggFdbQofTTeEFyNuhKVoVByZ

PIEFNKJRPvWUWAn

The two found a restaurant and dined on the second floor.OukunRqtEBYYtJrVUDouiIoduFOHgR

BWLkJeLAppMnVvK

The private room’s window overlooked the busy street below, providing an excellent view of the festivities.QlyfrHxuklhUgHeetReKsacxLaAkAY

TIPluDkAmzoLnYZ

After settling down, Geng Yan continued to reflect, “You say your mind has fallen to this state, how can you still be an examiner?”ScoLTLKMVvaZkieKbWHShTJhDPFAoZ

UqIzztFcsHQSHeP

Ning Rushen subtly stepped on his foot.wOBWPrEwGxmqQFUwqPwXmFpiplFKjz

sPcpCqKyGXZUBNg

Geng Yan exclaimed, “Ow!”rBSAkvNzuRwyMppacwIskaktLCmQno

NDYdOjkdHOjKIQB

Ning Rushen replied, “It’s the emperor’s decision, are you questioning him?”FESRVyDLZKSKENcFzACpBhZADzBuzO

chZqLDQdaQgQjmG

Geng Yan, shivering with anger, retorted, “You’re just bullying by flaunting power…”YtWrneOkkNDIoCQUUtRmcqJXhGkEZB

PjWJmcvaTYBHoql

While they were talking, the server had already started bringing dishes.RlnsHjeeccswPthEgIrzsXYHTHkygi

fvBDjXqhFjpFfCv

Ning Rushen offered him a grilled chicken heart, “Eat this, ‘like cures like’—grow some brains.”tIiqmOjOLxklvsjXbruSlFsqjdmCMc

isPXSjxqXFZLcEy

Geng Yan shivered even more.gwHOaeLlZMWhCykuOuwXeRKMZWyLsA

zLcbsRlCoLDFhza

As the two continued their chopstick duel at the table, they suddenly heard snippets of conversation from the noisy street outside:YVXImToSOupaPUnvRMVRdjuMFuQriV

kIdJvGGxJlOxQVD

“With… such talent, surely can…”RqanygPgQjKfwIjiZYMntBkNfvWYkk

gnhsKdMOXneQMfC

“That year… literary top scholar, Ning…”vTtpblaqwIHCjQKtAIwmXYEaazZxPl

cvRfAGEXtuJXWuB

Ning Rushen and Geng Yan stopped their playful fight and looked at each other: ?ehmbHTbInnHDxhSTKUFzGPsmZxeFsJ

URUjQrBlOkUYayl

They opened the half-closed carved window, and the voices from outside became clearer.oIzspIYfBiQAQHSutRHCtcaWdAcKIv

QyLEFxUSuLgfJVQ

Ning Rushen leaned out the window to look down.PtZmDIMiPXeGSoRNNkKPGasQujJjwB

kERWsAJLodRRLaB

Below their private room was an outdoor tea stall, where several young men dressed as examinees were engaged in a lively discussion.lVMMZsahakLgRfziWJYZmsBlXHKlyl

vcMmjAiORZluXRO

“Anyway, he comes from a family of scholars, raised in a learned environment. If Ning Chen, a mere rustic, can top the exams, why can’t we?”GELZmivboZldhbcUMgIXeyNCSaMeAm

FQhwWbPjKiXiaXX

“Not necessarily,” one of them said pointedly, “Admission to the scholar’s list is just a matter of papers, but it’s different at the palace.”DzxSQwiHUpjKPGSoYebJqNExfqxzzQ

UoRVELaPWMfGWEH

The men exchanged knowing looks, another coughed lightly, “It’s said that the top scholar Ning has a bit of ‘the grace of the dawn and the charm of the moon’…”FkAtmsxLijFcmQrRsIZCxSDyAjGyxq

EqWEOdZCeHMRiZn

The conversation ended there, full of implied meanings.ilsNRzplNZWJpfuuopXeLjDfbezNvE

tUxmPoVQGaehgqz

On the second-floor window sill, Ning Rushen and Geng Yan lay prone.UAODClLMeEQOtxOjQMgNmwEcjhMJUX

PjMNjEGwyGJCTkS

Geng Yan commented, “They say you became the top scholar with just your looks.”SJlDImWubYIGUWjhgHTVYwIQAzBomc

yblXOgaBzBXYCvh

Ning Rushen replied, “Then at least I still had seventy percent talent, now I can only rely on my looks.”fmsJuVWAiYRAlJIeaTTIkjMEojxgIF

KAQtODvcgzeBUmP

Geng Yan choked on his response.LzQwSpoRyKUaWsOEdVstEQylEHcSEY

WzslSEayyVzfnvz

After recovering, he asked incredulously, “You’re not angry?… Hey, what are you prying at?”kCVOacnLkpgfecXfwPLCMPHbMlVpGF

fniRsWbVpdJZEOm

Ning Rushen peered down, “Do you see if those roof tiles below the window are a bit loose?”cecRpfodQZrZaFktzIzWPWTEnRRRId

NozFaUOvhDSHqAT

An unspoken agreement arose between them.eWeZjSAJoIkqRsLYyxcGEHKgmHfmfA

upndTEHbVwyPmuL

Both reached out, flipped the tiles, then quickly shut the window and retreated.GkVxncIFGYuSqFYBRDVbqLopRWaJMW

cbkEZgNEADpaiiq

Clang! A wail arose from below.AumPQnpSAbimWOTyjDyNAKQCKYDumf

hjjQXeLZKWPIhFR

Inside the private room, Ning Rushen and Geng Yan sat opposite each other for a few seconds.wDIuWNFZrMbhSrXfNlXmdYMXgMsRWD

LGNXtvamqbERCOc

Geng Yan reminisced, “Not enough, they got off too easily. Don’t even know if it hit their heads.” Saying this, he moved to pry the window open again.BporeWnBZKQUjTVPYYOFXpOAdqlUYk

EhasUUsWIndklIF

Ning Rushen held him back, calmly stating, “You forgot, such days inevitably involve certain people.”injZKTRjsDdFhzAZlFrXlcGlhkrKSL

XWDRlaojfEhZVpb

Geng Yan took a moment to realize, then it dawned on him, “…the imperial guards!”rWbLubXYDWqFSqoTyYFfSvYKpVxCel

kQqlKsPueZWTgCu

Ning Rushen sighed, “Proud and inexperienced, still too young.”OYxhrpqqyKXSoktFBrLLfWAWLUJjdW

fBGlDlpucdyxncR

The imperial guards of the Great Cheng dynasty weren’t yet at the stage of eavesdropping in every household, but during major festivals and events, they would surely blend into the crowd, collecting information for the emperor.ckAxYSDCAvyTfuxnUHINkGRcYArXKF

lsRfoFzHzaAdQIZ

This was to control the flow of rumors and prevent issues before they arise.fowWNDOPzLbnXuGgYQgWRcjDurriMS

QKiMllbtqLdBdql

Ning Rushen finished his meal contentedly, “I’m full.”JIvsgcvzvjEMDGKPJLoSHXULHAJltj

eHEUWnFoQjNbhra

He stood up and patted Geng Yan, “Come on, let’s go boating.”cHvRoplNoGeFXjUYoOjUjljlluTCWT

IHxlwZMfmtaSLVd

…sTPcgTUtZFcshhPkIhQKckQGYRswVf

WNwksWNKDVOgCsw

Elsewhere, outside the Heart-nurturing Hall.CXFdMFkFyAiIqYXTRHCwuCgpNzufRF

FyBPSngtbITDlkI

Li Wuting was dressed in a dark blue official robe with a carved jade pendant, exuding an air of elegant nobility.RNslTLfHKrGMmeSylgCaEBjjtRuYqt

cSDkAwIQPwArmjE

Yin Zhao reported respectfully before him, “The imperial guards have been stationed at every alley, we will not fail Your Majesty’s expectations, and maintain peace in the capital.”JBJtgkYvjKUqIDJPZavNzcxxvKNPTZ

eApWzmyvBlXVlRB

Li Wuting acknowledged his report and dismissed him.xAmIRoCAUckGPOKFWsniiffImgUeGj

enhVLborkCXOpnZ

Once alone, De Quan commented on the dimming sky outside, “Your Majesty, the scriptural debate and poetry session by the Huai Ming River should be starting soon.”yoHCDMLCjPCIluedfdMyTjSSmstQUx

auSNBdbnbnexiNs

“Let’s go,” Li Wuting replied, stepping forward, eager to participate himself.ZSmRxLQDcRpyQRZFemazAmDQexnOUK

glwWcTkcUovYnXL

·drrIgMEGNboYDIKuhcSyigriEkUAYi

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At the Huai Ming Riverbank, the scene was brilliantly lit.lDcQEuNBWMdcEOhmvadKdaDQwRukig

NDLrYRQnweXzASM

The gentle flow of the river reflected the lanterns on both banks, where a bustling crowd moved back and forth. Scholars wore jingling sachets, and young women danced with sleeves fluttering in the fragrant breeze—a scene of perfect charm.FhXCfDfYteHaNKCrrNqtsPdQmiLiKE

bNuVUGqWzRqgQQL

Near the lacquered bridgehead, there were boats for rent.XYdVUmzYxQNPkSJDAvWpKeiereXtKm

XhytwTflegIoglo

Ning Rushen and Geng Yan approached to rent a wooden boat.ClaXkZPlAIFuPMxeHUDZbELmfhfUwN

GMHrASubNlUPtFv

“Do we hire a boatman, or shall we row ourselves?” Geng Yan asked.ApdSOQNIEwcODqmJgwAiEPrYtWTAxd

WzuWgKGImtIFAUV

“Let’s row ourselves,” Ning Rushen decided.UguypFrAbxbVomDpxDsxJlgYLTmQMt

fBTjVbyZHrjhDfK

With strangers around, they couldn’t speak freely.eTyuMuFXWWSGkAeUZFkhHtKTRBcEhu

uZNbWkKxZhNVRoM

After a moment’s thought, Geng Yan agreed, dismissing the boatman and handing the oars to Ning Rushen.lasuRZUeJtuurXPzFdQlAOBwvlrgNc

ibjmUEEZDmdyWPg

Ning Rushen looked embarrassed, “I don’t know how to row.”GiXRAzwdOdTkTTPGRVonmkcfUuwmDD

RzcOMiIxbTtQphp

“…” Geng Yan exploded, “Then why say we’d row ourselves? Does ‘ourselves’ only include me?!”VngtDqOlcaDNXEyAwtoUXTxRmDLLME

YfALipvfiljCeIE

Ning Rushen covered his ears weakly, “Your voice is so loud.”zihBujfTudJFcJNxVBidlWjmCRopwg

uYabokeICdTgyyT

“…”vhRQqmqPpZTpVpcQPIRAEEzvwSZgpQ

bnLUhIYWEcYYYVb

Not far from the bridgehead.msnJvEipByKAdJqalIpqLZhraeNCHO

wkbuMlGywDKtVYi

Li Wuting, accompanied by De Quan, made his way through the crowd toward the riverside, followed by imperial guards in plain clothes.zlXYffoGKlCgMAUJoPRgWEmwlauMwZ

zhYjJSQjcgACqeg

As they moved, a bright color caught the emperor’s eye.tSaqsekvdCHQNhVmKCqjSzifUURzGd

IRKNFBVKiKRhYFo

De Quan exclaimed, “My lord, isn’t that Minister Ning and Lord Geng over there?”fNtUolmdTJMGdnDDfqWhvrfKOQrIbh

KyVVIlrPoavmgMb

Li Wuting paused, looking in the direction indicated.fzajcHTPlbAqGQTEuSRrXFNnYIznMt

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Indeed, familiar figures stood at the lacquered bridgehead.FsvbpMYRLIIrhZmYYavxZLqZtcqXyC

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Ning Rushen had changed out of his official attire into a crimson robe with a dark pattern of clouds, his figure elegant and striking against the dimming twilight and the colorful crowd.CwjjPVEbKPeFWqulJFZQUmPrqJXNMY

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Whatever he was saying seemed to nearly provoke a reaction from Geng Yan.DMTevNclQwYrRfjgVEzjBFJLGhjfpg

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Li Wuting, touching the jade fan in his hand, changed direction, “Let’s go and see.”hyvurpHcykvItuNidDPCvXYLpGSaAT

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…cqnIhTJbPYUrbZSjmYvbgdjpYNXQWM

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At the bridgehead, Geng Yan was still arguing with him.KawigrQKvCkGxtmoSmbBwNBJYzEzCf

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“Let’s call the boatman back then.”CfgZmkHAPNakZqVPIjXHCSdgyWGrsj

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“That’s possible,” Ning Rushen reminded, “but can we still talk freely? Talk about your father, your job, your secret ailments…”qXBqLdJBPHEHmImkwCCXUimVvKOHcm

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“I have no secret ailments!!!”IVmRTuntIzscqDRYHVgSBlZGVgqtlY

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Geng Yan shoved the oar at him, “Take it.”zavGZhUIRfSeAuQNuMMabmFWYeTvUl

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Ning Rushen folded his arms, “I won’t take it.” Was he planning to capsize the boat?iDUGHVRaJbdDDZMJTvHSqVMauTqyLD

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Geng Yan protested, “How are we supposed to row without oars!”HKhSwEBLdNpDbnHMrMKcBvdYjEXMil

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Ning Rushen teased, “I row without oars, all on the waves.”EbZosLMlDvrEEKprHSBiqVniqfQMOP

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“…” Geng Yan’s baffled expression blanked for a moment.WIFcMLsnwAvpTOmSMdHcuKNsuDYVRx

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Looking at the calm river surface, he seemed unable to comprehend, “What do you mean, ‘on the waves’?”zDIlUkqRFZzzXlDyVahHonYOvcSwiP

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Just as Ning Rushen was about to respond, a familiar voice fell from behind:mliJGpASCctdcQZnrWTemCAWZXnnQZ

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“The Emperor would also like to know.”mdxmRhatZtwzxMrDigCplXNxhvQCkM

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Startled, Ning Rushen involuntarily stiffened and turned around.uWNFQVJtDHMmKNZElWtmyfTUwiQuMo

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There stood Li Wuting, a few steps away, hands clasped behind his back. Dressed in a blue robe as serene as his demeanor, he watched them with a calm, serious expression, seemingly at ease.OXIGischqkjJibKBGTFzEthtDNPJzK

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Li Wuting nodded slightly toward him, “Let’s see, Minister Ning, how you ride the waves.”GPcitxfEgZyqUbiODZZBNxRPetIVkr

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Ning Rushen, “……”cnxNEDmNfNihXalsFlonrqcURfpWaK

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