Pre-exam advice, earnest expectations
The day before the imperial examination, the study in the Shen family mansion was brightly lit by candlelight. Shen Yanzhi, dressed in a dark blue casual robe, stroked the yellowed copy of the Analects on the desk with his fingertips. His gaze fell on Shen Qingci, who stood bowing before him, and his tone was solemn yet full of expectation: "Qingci, tomorrow is the day that will determine the starting point of your official career. Have you fully internalized all the knowledge you have learned?"
Shen Qingci stood up straight, his eyes filled with determination: "Father, rest assured, I have studied diligently for ten years and dared not slack off for a single day. I will definitely perform well in this exam."
Shen Yanzhi slowly nodded, stood up, walked to him, and patted his shoulder. The warmth of his palm seeped through his clothes, carrying the steady strength unique to a father: "For thirty years, I have served as an official, never embezzling a single penny, never wronging a single person. If you enter officialdom, remember to prioritize 'integrity'—be pure in heart and disciplined in self-discipline, act with clarity and integrity, and serve the people with incorruptibility. Fame and fortune are important, but only by upholding your principles can you go far and achieve great things."
"Your son will remember your teachings, Father." Shen Qingci bowed deeply. "In this life, I will emulate you, Father, and be a righteous and incorruptible official, never failing your teachings and example."
A look of satisfaction appeared in Shen Yanzhi's eyes. He took out an inkstone from the drawer and handed it to him: "This 'Shouzhuo Inkstone' was used by my father when he was young for the imperial examinations. I am giving it to you today. I hope that you will uphold the spirit of 'Shouzhuo,' not take shortcuts, not seek empty fame, and establish yourself in the court with real talent and learning."
Shen Qingci accepted the inkstone with both hands. It was warm and smooth to the touch, and the two characters "Shou Zhuo" (守拙, meaning "to guard one's simplicity") were engraved on the bottom of the inkstone with vigorous strokes. He held this weighty expectation tightly and solemnly said, "I will cherish it and reflect on myself every day."
It was late when he left the study. Shen Qingci didn't linger and went straight to the Su residence—he knew that there was still someone he cared about waiting for him.
The front hall of the Su residence was already brightly lit. Su Mingyuan, dressed in a plain long robe, stood up and patted Shen Qingci's arm as he entered: "Qingci, there's no need to be too nervous. Your talent is known throughout the capital, so just go for the exam. No matter the result, the Su family will always be your strong support."
"Thank you for your trust, Uncle." Shen Qingci bowed in thanks, his gaze unconsciously drifting towards the screen.
As soon as she finished speaking, Su Yunqing emerged from behind the screen carrying a food box. A fresh white plum blossom was tucked into her hair, and her eyes held a hint of shyness and concern. She placed the food box on the table and lifted the layers to reveal delicate osmanthus cake and warm lotus seed soup: "Brother Qingci, this is something I made especially for you today. Osmanthus cake can refresh you, and lotus seed soup can calm your nerves. Have some to tide you over during the exam tomorrow."
She then took out a peace charm from her sleeve. The charm was embroidered with fine cloud patterns and adorned with tiny silver bells along the edges. "This is a peace charm that I obtained this morning when I went to Xiangguo Temple and knelt before the Buddha for two hours. The high monks in the temple said that sincerity brings results, and I hope it will protect you and help you achieve success in your studies."
Shen Qingci took the amulet, his fingertips touching her slightly cool fingertips, and his heart warmed. The amulet still carried the faint fragrance of orchids from her, which intertwined with the sweetness of the lotus seed soup and the mellow aroma of the osmanthus cake, becoming the warmest source of confidence for him on this journey.
He gripped the amulet tightly, his eyes filled with solemnity: "Yunqing, I accept your kindness completely. Tomorrow I will live up to your expectations and the hopes of everyone."
Looking into the starlight in his eyes, Su Yunqing blushed slightly and said softly, "I believe you. No matter how long it takes, I will be in the Su residence, waiting for your triumphant return."
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