This official is so weak

uxWVavTLMMZurGjTable of Contents

Chapter 19

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

STEQhmDgaLHpzyI

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

yPGnimhElGWgBip

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

jwfbaInoSjdxewp

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?”orAosYsjdCLOmgAIygBzzJpuXrnovv

ppuYjlxYLMLmLhe

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

cGGGOHKCAGvEWEl

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

OzHCUlaNxPPBmwM

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

GDKatRWlPCCXMjW

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

bjgSssEbedLNxRU

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

iiuSMEydyrDMxfe

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.MvIYcuWFYuzfowKnfNwyOEohuAHLEm

CMXpwguKpWRaPwe

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

kbcsOwhDriYYAjD

Ning Rushen looked up, blinking in confusion.qOIKpNnvXFRaKgzgvSbvFSidFtSElc

JPAFFippZWvPdNx

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

JQXlmwdFOvxzAfm

Ning Rushen, suddenly understanding, carefully stepped back.DufxyJvDmvBvUUdXHYyYdxyqOQroFX

FOkAanUXxWEPHMK

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

hXzflUmxaKPRssa

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

JdftDKtrPBBGLiF

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!UxbkVPcQkvtpoqTlySkucPFEdSHNOZ

jUHJnKxfjwFbtsw

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

aaESnyRdxsjujeP

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

VPtbbfFZDRddxEH

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

WYKgqxPlmOHQKpl

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

iYdWDVtXNFcdYxJ

The two shuffled behind him.gwwNGDLTrjuHIOBneumZPlQuZRkrzL

RxFvzLgGyczWmcK

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

NynYdVrXieRgkyV

Li Wuting and Li Yingtang walked ahead.hJEqMnONKmgjmKpvTaBkPxlNhJeBGs

DKLmCvjInecDhIQ

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.”xebYuuStQiILSRfEVptvDlXQCfbSvP

rjSJhviIgMWvORA

“…”cbiaNWlMEtWqXXyMwMDPleiMmDKkED

EZXpvbZAPPyWMvV

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

bkkOecTmNSKAcpv

Li Jingyu examined it closely, “Hmm.”NAlHinyeydCzzdeSRZVgowKqULNuEP

MxwTEsBJzBGXdae

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.”DfMiWmJjiWDooJLvxrSpXDjZCNFMLu

cLlOKdDrVbsyDvx

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

SpVJzvEOIcPmWBu

Li Jingyu seemed to understand and nodded.HQUPXbIIAekTqOofBLEVgEwnTInfoF

DYMtTLiMlTJdQLx

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

WVeidKDkSJafHyf

Li Yingtang was shocked!JHVIbDIVWoyvEQLpBWpDjigvQcIJfF

KEhnETCEgeAvIWh

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

lDCurHvGkCexWCV

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

GWtIBKtndhYvCPa

In this world, there are no dangerous walls.gTCHfuhrFwBirbOjwhsUDIHhXXrEvM

yzaqlrBhIIZlYoX

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

jNSiGjrRVOIIfoB

·TNgfoDeIrnGVAKtGVUXdUkzaWCJTQN

YuuRvjplKJczZOC

Everyone returned to the courtyard.fTbBGVGsDSmuvYGMXHOhKLcaDuXmTE

VlYBBXTMyQhyEQH

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

UzaDIhqTmmdYGnr

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

RjEzfEpYrEPeFQj

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.CJOrMIQhoRmcrzcnBVcSZtkODOYjnC

fRJIZVJoufetFkL

After lecturing them, Li Wuting stopped talking.YtdzYFvgoYDpidhmmrThuhrSjwxxDi

wlqqiweTdsvsACg

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:jilsxPbTKIzeGiQDhysMOOSLOeehHv

tSJarcsLOTQuIZT

“Jingyu, be more cautious.”usdmyfFYocesVAHWCLFjpkIeDNCEvm

wmOgevWgEItJZsY

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

IyKglVWMjapcBNF

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

LwmeyOjBaluxhkY

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

RtWzYyPqWyNxKZq

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

VDRrLkFNhMOQXkL

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

kiLusXbhqSblIhd

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

SEfEhHPrJCHhwbh

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

wbJpVCZIocCEkoV

Li Wuting, “…”aHdbzFuyUBdWRpXMyJGxHEbRlYRSZv

LwmZLqsYwCQSGBa

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

qqNkgMYdSDOYOFm

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

UCUBAwmneBCNYoi

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?”AYUjaaOTwrPzPtUxOwxnbYAjQIvhRF

DsOuaqypSIEZxLf

The fingers resting on his knee hesitated slightly.MgzTwfwjTAkvyTMoJxJmzCmPGIbgTQ

GlpbJrRyIpuegRK

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

mcezZyTUNNMbmhl

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

PIrAyRwajpGZluL

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

VRzAitozGWqXLfg

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

gbewvIRtzRoOnWb

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

DaZTgTbzIpNPKxh

“What is it, Your Majesty?”TMCUbfyxMeddYjLDTNcTfgsUzdIePb

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Li Wuting paused, “Mind your appearance.”lIVnqCuomeCXoPdCsKYHUQVfoxumli

YfKaLfmtvJQfNya

Ning Rushen: ?kYXfdPKmHAEFPkTuLVysBcpKxrSrDp

WIgfGUCeZYHHXsh

He reached up to adjust his hair.RfzLqegTwnTfRsaigVxNEWCqfXNpdu

KAIgkcUwYFlKYVk

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

btZmSZPashFaSAz

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

scDVYidDkfTTIEb

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.PXexsjJzjtIsEIHYDzNuhHxrNYzuWn

aQwjBudmjoulXAl

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.icwVinzsuXrZfHNbwFWIxeYSEkVyfq

DxwQsmXTEanWiPY

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

tcjWVGwiUYXztjC

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

iFmFAsBhHoBkrxm

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

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

OWBqnSDRqfYUfQt

fbNRKvahRBRTlvVuVJBLLIWQQbAHgT

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Soon, it was time to dine.mzzyTxCsGZGZJCnznvDxSeAVQqPCMu

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

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Royals were always attended by servants during meals.dgnJEZAkuFkVnsQsGvcwOUhpNbAPNa

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

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

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

XeFJIHGpYteGyTw

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

xEeKXLGnDkrHqjO

Are you competing with His Majesty for food!JPpeHIJrLMBBCLVerWkHVYyyrCDtqf

YGSNzAaQXRDSRkF

Aren’t you going to serve him?ajGXCwvoQbxQpSJIntWPVuEaIxiUgF

ppMTuNwwZLZiiXD

“…”eFzfxbIDWhxzZeQmWqDFMTUSMNGjrY

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

JoHaKQrukzLCOMj

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

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Li Wuting looked over.CrJteLFLEQYRzakGnWnwOpllpxnrIc

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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.peXVoczEUklcCweYIKvVuKQrsLqtIx

gPzmoCLsTDLmXyk

Li Wuting, “………”HuNRoeBLqZsVZLBJRkjjBVWChowybM

FaraGkPJUkIOmcQ

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

sjYMrdlOTuIrwnX

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

pXmAPaLKSbPUbVu

Embarrassed, Ning Rushen withdrew his chopsticks.LoibfWNopooXfrInuMfgJWyFuNFjqu

AkIIAZdrtkrpyUj

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

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

JycwWqzIvUxxKTE

LMCVgaeNZPWQTLUeDqpVpgPBKCkhgl

skMIwATcytOfiuD

The banquet at the mansion ended.LGVVhFYJLPjdvtwEfjKBxBQHpPfziJ

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

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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.YwLJvrTGryvIteqjGSckmFjEXCjaJa

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

PQssAbKFAESzbHn

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

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

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

XDqbzHrFbvadRkj

The three shared a common hobby: voracious eating.UUqLAZIvzmBKLLFyxpjIoppwtcHiUb

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

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

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

nxMYScKKfXhGbWT

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

pPLgpJYwGDWWykV

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

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

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It all sounded very encouraging.KFHptOvZDHPnrdZvYnIMZzBWUgCuEt

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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.”FskroXuWhgdBdXXNIbyBuISducJEnV

pNcUgXaeypGAktD

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

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

pThtzKzLglLIsXv

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

GIxZqAQogxtDpHw

“……”hOgtKinPGcZWdDdzfNTGnzUMhMTFNw

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The two exchanged a few more pleasantries.mmYYwWBthtOYuMfUbljEIMMXJHPXtw

tfUeFcumtcuuqTH

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.”RRaJdjHdgNgeWPFTHHCwubyGGCQoNo

LXzWWpXytvcYjTq

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

rHbhtitppQrmIOg

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

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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—dHvcfDQyqmucQSUrLnYjbYIioZxDXk

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Emperor Li Wuting appeared unchanged at first glance.TLfPTEboZLdpoixaaPoXyioCdlceEP

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

dbPZNAtTimqEjMN

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

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

RomJmIHkJXPNccZ

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

ZowgAPvUmcWBTMY

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

wnjoIJjWmyPhysL

“Hmm, is the budget still sufficient?”XIgWqHsMRBJIZLWDspZBxiRVGIKEfq

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

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

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Perhaps he was being overly sensitive.YPopBcgbekYFJXxtVmuVeEcXPKxohq

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

qoVNZaRHnScMInV

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

wPovrORawhlenUn

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

IYQGLSUYIrbmvOG

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

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Ning Rushen was puzzled.GTpeZuStqgKwnUKNqszvvRKjqkqEjD

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

lDiaMvQiLjQynSa

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

bUCJABhBWbbOHIH

Ning Rushen was shocked—fNaVuNagRIieLpLBlgrGIFUpnCfUFg

qAkEAWGOeQhtiXh

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!tHvByXctNSSTbyTGWMMQdLVyXnXToD

DFbbRxSVMoBqhcw

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

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

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

gzpRcHjEhrPOXOo

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

FOcqUWxbrvNYDND

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

coiKlnllTRiaDYF

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

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Emperor Li Wuting, “…”ExQSmXBwhgeCOskMWWJYwaQcUhoLWm

XilHuRBpNutQHCS

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

eDDPvCgFhooNFLM

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

YDuwsrDbCfijUKO

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

PuymSStYgcjYThV

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?”brdSvZSrfxCCTTIvumpSzxoyBoRROQ

rKobvaeZiuLONvM

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

WISHeroTlhfxMPA

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

HWCGeSBjPgQlZJV

“Hmm.” Ning Rushen pondered.lBJSpsBYJWtMcSeqCUUGcDyadHmkzK

tmfFNhrjgcOOExN

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.wwsHteScmVxGFrzPqLJDICYJGBeUPc

KYSXrAmcdPNeliA

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

MhQhDggaYbFNhsD

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

XlplLNzAWyEUJDl

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

HbEYCsKDewPsEmF

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

klCOwrdTHXmBmYN

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

CTLurcQXUZWYqTD

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

jlIHIVgFKqScCiQ

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

iBykfdJihfWLggJ

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

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Ning Rushen nodded.yHhxBOoIQQyAuERZvsuoQGLzdEnbRE

ApDPPzDCSqlpCjf

Emperor Li Wuting said, “Come closer.”ERzfBiMASDehqQDxkFymzbiBXMEHvl

hYmuOaaYxiLKRFl

De Quan and the courtiers were still nearby.VWlyJYJypgsXljeEEnHZJvSYFlFcDu

VZMNJQFHXHmStdx

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

ibJkMOETXTHuRAz

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

pRiMmlWXCSalbgo

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.FEBDRrtVrTcIHcBqJdBVgxheaxIvSD

vXmgmpOeIPrdbMm

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

nhjgATFARvnhMLp

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.VOkGmAfviYIgIhnYKCwgNovbbqIHNJ

zBWGnCKtjfsihrY

Ning Rushen leaned in close to Emperor Li Wuting.PCNmSSDDhzoQZxfRfxoBPzirDbaPcL

DUgeQsObybYfQCB

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

JLybWGgRcWTPojx

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

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“Guess for yourself.”TJLHWzWvxGlDeFoxsUIxLozQgBkhfL

oJnFKRrdTDYfuLL

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

dYiXDuuMakJyAmL

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

YPZUaTtzWoNcIgC

De Quan sneakily squinted towards them.KbWtmAvACnSCWvYGXBApJPLxWkuGNa

gnxwNSJoSoastQW

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.TxSxwPtDVSRbGWOQZcyQlNIJDVmEyH

xjdJwYSmczHlLhq

De Quan: Hiss… Ouch~stTzBYeqajbVuonUNRlJUMKMbsgvvA

VamoyWcryyxTkQB

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

lGbldSXVRuhTspX

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.DLZMiYghzxcnLsZofSfIYnWbAkmhPf

zRQOCUbJlSfowgX

“Go now, think it over.”VgUsyKVJwjhWwjLZYceRDadfZMzhSP

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

UOipkTFEnixQGGI

He left, his ears red hot.yvZYhdYvwMxkhfDLvdjyInzGvHeTYw

mIKSahtkPkcdrHN

·EhqMaNubXgEzjYoVxANbfKTnEWCcwj

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

TaaKUSibuZCbNiv

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

lAclmklqrUHiUKP

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.”pNZIXCgjfUXGaPrjrNZlXUtSiefcdX

gwmaLqkbvaqAAON

All was quiet above the beams.sjtxjXMbutFxSUaGbQXUQKDnshQSDS

rBIIFITnKxLlyBP

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

tRtGyDlrfFiyzOF

A figure immediately swooped down, standing before him.vEfivUAtrImfcdHgWdvKRJCspXyPoa

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

LMSofwHOqZLvWOw

Shiyi asked, “What do you need?”gbpOOoEIHAyhmUNyAbJLttfyAblQFE

tXKmkDNTRVeLKTa

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

rFKYipEXosRPZAM

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

ekntBTSSjkFlLHN

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

BwfXGjFpDjAOvgS

“No. Why do you ask?”ChtiOIYblhIWzbTAyNbbWpoyUZfUjt

JqUDrUBsYgCoefQ

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

vUmSTItzWkGtgCj

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

hueGglSYpJsvzGy

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

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Are you sympathizing with someone who was dismissed?MklsyLzuMlACKPJWrEVYClJLFKEoJW

umQhvDCsHVgtiVm

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

LbYXeZyGCBJdjSc

Shiyi, “?”TyWqxWMsimNRnfCPZSvFRRCjBDOBvo

jgMycoFKkDTgqeA

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

tjyvXQJPaoIALWx

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

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Ning Rushen waved him away.XKCzYorMUifQbwlmyScjhpExBMvSTn

AWPyLqjuQRyXkQs

ognVERtLQxkanVLPGZtthOXoVABKXM

AzSwCvdHDPVpUby

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

JEPbrnFBzzPJawt

As the month drew to a close.ZUJJixXZTOdRsxmPrGckTvfEwDwkGD

zHjbLsLsoIYnBRo

The postponed imperial examination finally arrived amid strict preparations.NOUVcJcPaQELgrowasjAFxzHphaIdl

NFUHZvyfNrgIrUS

The exam lasted nine days and six nights.WEWKSTeNbFKCcrXNKzquFnBhZdjYFp

NEnOZcFbhEDVQYN

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.qKsVzcfivJNQwRiwQzAnCwEddMvxVU

MvBGNFBujCYlcRq

He exemplified the spirit of various scholars.DaLGRkrvfOytCynQXugIkmBDqtfaSz

WJOxNjqXfuEyeeI

This continued until the end of the examination.PEucamGgDPQrYGlIRvFOTLQVvxHYbb

JVrWMjlQgYjOvvY

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.SykIIfijrCHNAksEcFmuVXVCsWYLeC

WbfIisAjXISqrAc

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

UUQUeIkqbxbAMyt

—It was a tradition of the great state.tlTLFlXAiDyVohgZPPuaReBoNlpaux

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

ivVDiacUXzzotAN

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

ylxGemPYPdvSWIr

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

QkQhJdunkxQyqPV

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

xsQcqSjDDvtjcOD

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

MuoimHIqgztUHSy

Li Wuting chuckled.FEYkkSexljVWYNzDKrNkdnoLinhWfo

EehwDbikBNHfknJ

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

oegyxjKKUeYTpxu

Ning Rushen thanked him and quickly left.AyfDhyXRDoeKIrfnnCORHhdIeWQABL

QQBzSKpNwnwZWxC

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

tlViwebpvvAIDsV

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!”YoJPFyqUiStjAbEsehQFntTlAVphvH

WnmcUmImudDQEcL

Ning Rushen shook his head, “Listen.”JsagDpmjHPhbqjxwqGBlhXpEVnQXQB

pTDZBDZWbfCMCub

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

TBJiWoRZpLzZSXL

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

xntuXkHuZGqZUCG

“…”RzGUTktIkNeOPjKPSWSoxjhwByjSVA

RSJEtyCefWGTcGD

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.”cqaFBNqiphHHTbjPFTBefAJzHkDFJR

kqDSLXBYMQyFBsT

·vMCwtxKkUGFNCjBygzGWWNTgdzMzJI

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As dusk fell and the lanterns were first lit.FdPtTAmjTcgXWAPywQVDglCkygSlFk

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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.DhnlxvQgsRdpPwDUXKvyyxPJMtKjff

ywuUnFbeiVCSAex

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

nGIwkkOjpRDXnZM

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

HuUiBwjgBGijMej

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

nPPsAORAKHykXKE

Ning Rushen subtly stepped on his foot.rGomrCzKNmODNODqUwOjqcCeMLfWCM

wnBGvWcFGfyDtow

Geng Yan exclaimed, “Ow!”nlaQHJBdyPgxeISHNFrcDSTHBHUvcW

lJsfexmKlcKuNTD

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

YjLlfQqUYpDuQWH

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

IOtOJIbtLcyyPLC

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

FDUmfGXzSDMAJtI

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

dEXWVBWpwMNsjjM

Geng Yan shivered even more.hsfhMLvEQsWrsfZuiTitFGuNDPYXgQ

kLNmBYsoQDaFwpX

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

ppsRpWqVkFaeExL

“With… such talent, surely can…”fzGsKforxnbgFVkuNJLtLdmwSKpDkO

nvcipHGgvLAaooB

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

hYUarrIUzuZPYDd

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

AELsETClHXXKSGf

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

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Ning Rushen leaned out the window to look down.GblvAHRxmqVYBikDrDXhVJxPbPdhQC

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

UHQFxqirhGgtvAc

“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?”MwsIoiMdmgUXoRWijKyQnpjUQPdNuS

YiOfflyHIKFWRBb

“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.”owssGBwRJDwGehcccHaFNgXSMFjmXh

IXttYWmMpavIivN

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’…”wxikCJEyGGBrwridzKGhwyOtdlqWLG

peLWVFUUpgBdNRu

The conversation ended there, full of implied meanings.cTdkccwRBoxfMfJIsgvNVgSOLgkLXZ

YehctXTUEUdxvCZ

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

XHKRDZGXqSaAFmI

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

syZbVZHlErbFcIY

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

mEbBECDkrSeHkNv

Geng Yan choked on his response.PNXoLmbTgLFRCZiwlOmVPLQEUzMUAr

ryDtwQvNfDrJHcZ

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

WhDZqlaliYuJcpU

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

UIlNIcPKBTeeMHQ

An unspoken agreement arose between them.YMLBIOciHMlTaUKfbePZnmqGnvfiDo

CMmLPeDmdCmqyrg

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

PpsGvtWkLzMnSoY

Clang! A wail arose from below.lGetNmoUYNrvmYTpFldHdXRZxNHrKN

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

FVBVZxRWbxniCQz

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.jaEecABMcivXSerYpoYnyHhfUhPytA

wsuAaYTYaGcYyNU

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

TWJaxzeIMuZtSxn

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

LUDCoRzIprWCXXx

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

gljKlWuWxafngvo

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.eHHtxvajPYgGVDFzCFUrNgBbMTDcjA

tVcLJqpzvDibXJm

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

tLcGWfyUXCEDcFV

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

bsWdeBmPmHMaLQq

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

wHLoWGmycWzLsjG

MxirLzwbpAiJERuWRdtCBdytaBJKRx

hSWPnWCFXimSFjR

Elsewhere, outside the Heart-nurturing Hall.TkKmlpnDSdYPOeNzpmqfhpmvGHGGhJ

tlduvDjYCNbtyXN

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

WmOIUaogpLZMiGV

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.”GbKfRmXyhsqImtglsdNSNgEaPdGjmQ

nrfsHvjugwZsNDG

Li Wuting acknowledged his report and dismissed him.ZvbbAoCRjLQIlsWXvbdxkiZaWpLyaP

GTPNOxkWYBDtmyi

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.”RSmHhRoSiIwVJCaNtSitAvWHmfXLCx

RYdAyvEMvRHsLjx

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

mgVTSaKGTDIsGAR

·onsXoYlmRaTzFJOBGWuGAFFmsYFkIf

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

BGHhuEHnOSRVYSs

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.avlYCiDDYIqAETrQyMmtzuyLLXgoMQ

QNmnRHtfTcFwxyg

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

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

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

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

ndcQmaEOPhiLEHx

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

QEQZlkFkMSPiwEa

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

STeWtPrYIeZrQDK

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

jIfyrVJYukfMHjo

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

YgjmbKLegJDlQuE

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

YQdiPqOqFCIlHsn

“…”HtcbkjzajrLHtAKvpljNLhtzJobSCg

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Not far from the bridgehead.ULZnLuhFbmgDIwYWlZGUSgSScmSOzj

nHIFHDVohAMnway

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

nZKIpdWCfSKVlTD

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

cmCQaMlBmnORfcf

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

SoemgFxqpNXxGoZ

Li Wuting paused, looking in the direction indicated.hyVwjyOLaTIGZcmxpwYdtkyCbVCiqg

aZXiPFGnEbpzSGO

Indeed, familiar figures stood at the lacquered bridgehead.jqBOfOebwSCPjSgyImirbsTDRiTQHE

qxLpQXhKSIcfBML

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.eUuClqPRnQJyufvFoGEDIBcIudRfKN

DFPUzgNKvCbGLFX

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

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

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

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

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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…”aLgFRXXlvRySMvjwRXyFVtmaeipDzg

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“I have no secret ailments!!!”DjcIoWRLdJOjuFgwsIwFoELdzybRwW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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“The Emperor would also like to know.”KZlmTAGJvXvydNDibJvcsDkJGgvHVO

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Startled, Ning Rushen involuntarily stiffened and turned around.fSoMWxXiFNoSqDrhDYZJyzagaJQycC

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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.YPxeNEDieFzFzrQWiduISvQojOLAxc

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

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Ning Rushen, “……”PDoCjElTkovMAZhIjzkXkIucKfYsML

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