A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

On March 17th, teahouses in the capital buzzed with scholars awaiting palace examination results, hoping for a place among the top candidates. News spread that the emperor would not select any "shujishi," cutting off their path to the Hanlin Academy. Amidst the crowd, Su Tong, an unqualified scholar, mingled with successful candidates, particularly interested in Shen Xi's results. His companion, merchant Li Yu, admired Su Tong's talents and sought connections in officialdom. As results were announced, relief washed over candidates, with the top three receiving scholar robes, symbolizing their honor and future prospects.

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