A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

The third exam overseen by Xie Qian has concluded, with Zhu Houzhao's paper ready for grading. His answers were mostly transcriptions and simple Q&As, lacking depth. Zhu Youcheng, responsible for the oral exam, prepared questions on the Four Books and Five Classics, but doubted his son's knowledge. Zhu Houzhao answered a question about the "Records of the Grand Historian" correctly, impressing some but raising concerns about its simplicity. When asked about his favorite piece, he admired Huo Qubing, prompting mixed reactions from the ministers. Zhu Youcheng cautioned against reckless warfare, but Zhu Houzhao passionately argued for the need to defend against invaders, shocking everyone and provoking his father's stern rebuke.

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