After the ceremony, a deathly silence fell over the area in front of the hall.
The wind stopped, the music ceased, even breathing seemed to freeze, leaving only a suffocating silence.
Finally, the long, drawn-out chant of the eunuchs echoed from inside the hall—
"The imperial edict reads: On the 29th day of the fourth month of the 17th year of the Jingyuan era, a special examination was held for all candidates from across the land. The first-ranked candidate was awarded the title of Jinshi Jidi, the second-ranked candidate was awarded the title of Jinshi Chushen, and the third-ranked candidate was awarded the title of Tong Jinshi Chushen. This is the imperial decree—"
Gu Zhixing closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
The time has finally come.
"First place in Class A—"
The official from the Court of State Ceremonial repeated the announcement in a loud voice, his voice like a resounding bell, echoing throughout the hall—
"Lin Jinming—"
A slight commotion arose in the crowd as a figure stepped forward from the front and walked steadily toward the main hall.
Gu Zhixing quietly turned his head away and looked at Shen Jintang, who was kneeling with him on the side.
Both of them were dressed in red, and now they were kneeling here together, looking like a newlywed couple.
Gu Zhixing's lips curled up involuntarily, and a hint of tenderness flashed in his eyes.
"First place, second place—"
"Zhou Wenhuan—"
Another person stepped forward.
Gu Zhixing's gaze remained fixed on Shen Jintang's face. Shen Jintang seemed to sense something, raising her eyes to look at him with a cold yet slightly questioning look, as if asking him why he was looking at her like that.
"Third place in the first division—"
The official from the Court of State Ceremonial suddenly raised his voice—
"Gu Zhixing—"
The name was sung three times, its lingering sound echoing as if ringing in everyone's ears.
Gu Zhixing was startled and suddenly looked up.
He heard faint gasps around him, whispers from fellow successful candidates, and even the violent pounding of his own heart—thump, thump, thump, deafening like the beating of a drum.
Shen Jintang's gaze changed as she looked at him. Ripples seemed to spread across her usually calm and deep eyes, and a barely perceptible smile appeared on her lips.
Gu Zhixing suddenly smiled, a smile that carried a hint of surprise and relief.
He straightened his clothes, smiled at Shen Jintang, then turned and followed the official from the Court of State Ceremonial into the main hall.
The palace was resplendent with gold and jade, and the emperor sat majestically on his throne.
Gu Zhixing knelt on the ground, performing a deep bow to express his gratitude. His forehead touched the cold gold bricks again, but he no longer felt the cold.
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