Everyone stopped writing, and the innkeeper, along with his waiter, collected all the papers with the answers written on them and took them up to the private room on the second floor where Emperor Kangxi was.

While Emperor Kangxi and his entourage were reviewing the examination papers, the competition downstairs was still ongoing.

"The next question to be tested is on current affairs. I would like to invite all of you gentlemen to express your opinions on this topic."

"This discussion concerns the decision-making issue concerning Dzungar."

Galdan, the leader of the Jungar Banner, colluded with Russian forces, intending to split the Qing Dynasty's territory and declare himself king. He was used by Russia and has now become a force to be reckoned with, as well as a major concern for Emperor Kangxi.

So I wanted to bring this up today.

The first to speak was Wu Pingxuan, a talented scholar who was quite famous in Jiangnan. He also did well in the imperial examination, ranking third.

Wu Pingxuan began by expressing his views on the current situation of the Dzungar Khanate. His speech was fluent and rhythmic, and it sounded reasonable and even inspiring. However, some of his points were old and unoriginal. He was considered passable among the tribute students of the same year, but Emperor Kangxi did not think much of him.

While Emperor Kangxi was in a private room on the second floor, someone was constantly repeating every word spoken by the people downstairs.

Upon hearing this, Kangxi shook his head and said, "It's standard." Then he continued to look at the answer sheets that had just been collected.

Tong Xuewen wasn't in a hurry, but some people were "worried for him".

After Wu Pingxuan finished speaking and received many approving glances, he became somewhat arrogant and said, "I have heard that Tong Huiyuan is exceptionally knowledgeable. I have never had the opportunity to exchange ideas with Tong Huiyuan. I wonder if I would be fortunate enough to have this opportunity to hear Tong Huiyuan's insightful opinions?"

Tong Xuewen was caught off guard by being called out. Although he was somewhat surprised, he was not afraid: "I can't say I have any profound insights. Since Young Master Wu wants to have a friendly spar, I have no reason not to refuse."

Then Tong Xuewen began to express his opinion. In fact, Tong Xuewen had heard his father mention the issue of Jungar before, which was discussed at the dinner table.