Wei Tingsi ignored him, staring straight ahead.

"How boring," Huo Baichuan said softly.

Upon hearing Huo Baichuan's words, Emperor Mingde's mind raced. Could it be...? He tentatively inquired, "Minister Huo, do you intend to take the imperial examination?"

“Of course, for the sake of His Majesty’s reputation, and to prove that I became an official through my own hard work and not because of my good looks. Of course, those like Uncle Yan who are not good-looking do not need to take the imperial examination.” As he spoke, he walked to Yan Shiren’s side. “Actually, Uncle Yan is not bad-looking either.”

"You! Lord Huo! Please mind your manners!" Sun Ganzheng couldn't stand it any longer. He glared at Xie Yun and Qiu Tangshi several times. As officials, they allowed those who didn't know etiquette to act recklessly in the court. Where was the slightest bit of the demeanor of a noble young master! Is this how the Huo family teaches its descendants? It's simply outrageous! Outrageous!

Qiu Tangshi, Xie Yun, and Yan Shiren kept their eyes down, not intending to interrupt Huo Baichuan. Wei Tingsi, who usually showed no respect to anyone, also remained silent. Sun Gan was heartbroken and indignant. "Treacherous minister! Treacherous minister!"

Emperor Mingde waved his hand, “My dear minister, I find Minister Huo’s words to be reasonable. The imperial examination is indeed the proper way for people to enter the court and become officials. Emperor Taizu said that the imperial examination system should never be abolished. I think it must be of great benefit to the country and the people. Since Minister Huo wants to prove his talent, I will grant his request.”

Huo Baichuan smiled broadly, "Thank you, Your Majesty. You are truly a wise and benevolent ruler." He didn't forget to offer a word of praise.

The ministers watched silently. Who could possibly stand against Huo Baichuan in a war of words at court? Alas, a treacherous minister has risen to power!

"Haha, alright. Just now, all of you have decided that the nineteenth prince will tour the country on my behalf. Now, please prepare a list of accompanying officials." Emperor Mingde changed the subject abruptly and domineeringly, leaving the ministers speechless. When did they choose Prince Yong, this absurd prince, to tour the country on behalf of the emperor?

But Huo Baichuan's questions just now made them swallow back the words they were about to say.

At this point, Xiao Zhu Zi took several sips of tea and exclaimed, "Princess, Mr. Huo is truly a remarkable person. All the officials were stunned by what he said."

Zhao Shu was speechless. "Has Mr. Huo returned to his residence?" In his previous life, Huo Baichuan became the Minister of the Imperial Secretariat as soon as he entered the court. She never expected that in this life, he would have to start from taking the imperial examination.

I hope he can still reach the position of Minister of the Imperial Secretariat in this lifetime, and that she won't ruin his promising future.

"No, I was playing chess with Lord Yan in the palace with the Emperor. We were playing the very chess that the Prince loves. Oh, by the way, Princess, Princess Zirou gave me an invitation. Her birthday is in a few days, and she wants you to come to the palace to talk with her." As if he had just remembered, Xiao Zhuzi hurriedly took out the invitation from his pocket and handed it to Zhao Shu.

Although they sent her an invitation, they didn't send anyone over in person. Zhao Shu remained silent, took the gold-embossed red invitation, opened it, and chuckled, "They must be choosing a consort. Ask around and see if the young masters in the capital have also received invitations."