The spring light fades away, the camellia flowers bloom, and the summer breeze drifts in from afar with a hint of heat.

The imperial examination of the Qin Dynasty was divided into three parts. The first part abandoned the writing of clichéd articles and focused on the assessment of professional knowledge. The second part was the application of official documents and laws. The third part was questions about national economy and people's livelihood.

In order to save manpower, material resources and time, the three exams are scheduled within one day.

From the crowing of the cocks in the sky to the setting sun, even though they were exhausted, the candidates persevered until the last moment.

For students from poor families, the imperial examination is undoubtedly the only chance in their lifetime to make a breakthrough.

Chen Ping came out of the examination room carrying the book basket woven by his brother. He was surrounded by candidates who were talking about him, each with a different expression.

Some are confident of victory, some are nervous, and some are in mourning...

"Oh, time is really too tight. I haven't even finished answering the last question."

"I have answered all the questions, but I am not sure I can pass the county exam."

"I don't know when the results will be announced. I'm so nervous..."

"Alas, now that the dust has settled, let's just leave it to fate!"

An anxious atmosphere gradually spread, and even Chen Ping, who was confident, was inevitably affected at this moment. His handsome face flickered in the setting sun, and his steps became hesitant.

But when he thought of his brother waiting for him at home, a little light gathered in Chen Ping's dim eyes.

He held his head high and chest out, his steps became firm again, and the colorful rays of light in the sky guided the way forward.

If I don’t pass the exam this year, I’ll try again next year, and if that still doesn’t work, I’ll try the year after…

One day he will be able to realize his ambitions and lead his brother to a good life.

There are not many scholars in the Qin Dynasty nowadays, and the people have just barely made a living. Learning to read and write is too much of a luxury for them.

What's more, knowledge is basically monopolized by the upper class, and there are very few people who are truly educated and knowledgeable.

Therefore, the number of candidates allocated to each county is even smaller, and with fewer candidates, the marking speed is fast. Within half a month, the results are released in various counties one after another.

"Hahahaha, I won! I won!"

"Why is my name not there? Why is my name not there?!"

"Don't push, don't push...If you've finished, leave quickly so others can see too!"

"I'm actually in last place! Hahahaha... I'm a scholar, I'm a scholar! I'll bring honor to my family!"

“…”

In front of the red list, everyone reacted in a variety of ways. No one could remain calm. Some shouted in excitement, some collapsed in despair, and some even went crazy...

The world is bustling with people seeking profit, and no one can stay out of the pursuit of fame and fortune.

Han Xin originally thought he had arrived early enough, but when he saw the huge crowds of people blocking the streets, the smile on his lips froze instantly.

He silently looked up at the dim sky and thought to himself, isn't it just the time when the results are announced?

Could it be that these people have been guarding the entire night?

"Brother Han, why don't we come back to check the list later?"

Zhang Liang looked at his slender arms, and there was a rare hint of embarrassment between his delicate eyebrows.

He was born into a prominent family and was born weak, so he had never done such an inappropriate thing himself.

Hearing the words of persuasion, Han Xin turned his gaze to the frail and handsome young man with an understanding look.

But since he was already here, he didn't want to give up halfway. He patted his muscular arms and smiled proudly.

"Brother Zhang, please stand here and don't move. I'll squeeze over and help you take a look."

"Well, whatever, I'll have to trouble Brother Han."

After spending a long time with Han Xin, Zhang Liang gradually understood his character. He found him simple, straightforward, kind and generous, and he was especially open-hearted to his relatives and friends.

However, he is surprisingly stubborn. Once he makes up his mind to do something, he will not be able to change his mind even with ten bulls.

For example, when they stewed chicken soup on New Year’s Eve last time, neither of them was good at cooking, let alone such a technical job as plucking chicken feathers.

Originally, Zhang Liang wanted to ask someone to help deal with it, but Han Xin insisted on doing it himself. In the end, there were still a lot of fluff left after plucking it until midnight. Han Xin was so angry that he peeled off the chicken skin.

Although Zhang Liang was confident about his ranking, he did not want to reject Han Xin's kindness, nor did he want to argue with him, so he had no choice but to agree.

Glancing at the gaps in the crowd, Han Xin rubbed his hands excitedly, rushed in in one step, and shuttled through the crowd like a nimble fish.

A moment later, Han Xin rushed out with disheveled hair and messy clothes. His handsome face was filled with uncontrollable excitement and joy. He shouted loudly to Zhang Liang.

"Brother Zhang, that's great, we're all on the list!"

"Also, Brother Zhang, you're ranked third, surpassing everyone else. Hehe, you're worthy of being my brother, Han Xin..."

"Okay, Brother Han, let's go back to the academy and talk. There are too many people here."

The young man was tall and strong, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, but his smile was a little silly, and he looked very gullible. Zhang Liang couldn't help but hold his forehead with a smile and persuaded him in a gentle voice.

The rising morning light shone through the mist onto the two young men, coating them with a layer of shiny golden light.

Just like the radiant spirit between his brows, his upright back reveals the youthful vigor and vitality that is unique to young people.

In the Qinian Palace, the candles burned out. Even though the sun was rising, the palace was still a little dim. Only the sound of shallow breathing could be heard in the silent space.

Suddenly, there was a creaky sound and the door quietly opened a crack. With a rustling sound, a black shadow slipped into the room at lightning speed.

"Hmm? Ah Zheng...you're back..."

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