The Cold Door Hero

Summary

The chapter describes the transition from autumn to winter as October 1st marks the beginning of a new era, "Zhonghe," in the capital. With the imperial examination approaching in five months, the atmosphere in the capital becomes increasingly competitive as candidates arrive in large numbers. Li Yan Qing, a student at the Taixue, is preparing for the annual examination, which has been postponed to October this year. While the annual examination is less critical for most students, it is vital for those seeking advancement, like Li Yan Qing, who needs to pass to move from upper-level junior to upper-level intermediate status. Li Yan Qing meets his fellow student, Wu Bang Chang, who shares news about the upcoming imperial examination, including changes in the poetry examination and the cancellation of transcription requirements. Wu expresses his frustration with the competitive nature of securing official positions, emphasizing the importance of the imperial examination over the annual examination. They discuss the differences between the two exams, with Li Yan Qing realizing he has underestimated the annual examination's breadth. As they enter the Qinxue Building for a lecture, they find it crowded with students and auditors, many of whom have failed previous exams and are hoping to pass the jinshi examination. The chapter also highlights the success of Baoyanzhai, a rouge shop that has become the leading brand in Bianjing, with Li Yan Qing's father gaining recognition as a top merchant. Li Yan Qing visits Baoyanzhai, where he learns that his father has been talking about him.

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