A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

In a family meeting, three key figures were absent: Li Shi, Shen Ming Jun, and Shen Xi. Zhou later informed Shen Xi about the discussions, emphasizing the importance of Xie Yun Er in managing the household. Despite Zhou's acceptance of Xie Yun Er, there was underlying tension. Shen Xi and Xie Yun Er shared a room, both feeling the weight of their circumstances. After Li Shi left for the capital, Shen Xi continued to excel academically, ranking first in a provincial examination, while his friend Su Tong expressed envy. The Lu Ming Banquet highlighted the disparity between successful candidates and those from humble backgrounds, revealing a network of connections and potential bribery among the successful scholars. Shen Xi remained skeptical of the system, questioning the integrity of the results.

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