USWHC -Chapter 514 The Talent of a Top Scholar (Part 4)

A ten-mile stretch of red bridal decorations, gentle songs, and graceful dances. On the pavilion at the center of the lake, a woman danced elegantly, her movements so enchanting that they could captivate anyone. Yet, no one paid her serious attention—along the lakeshore, laughter and cheerful chatter filled the air.

“As I passed through Chang’an Street today, hearing the clamor and seeing the festivities, I realized how warmly the people of Liang welcome the Second Prince of Great Qi!” A man laughed aloud. He wore Hu-style attire, completely different from Liang’s scholars’ robes, and unlike the officials’ uniforms around him.

Hearing this, an official beside him stood up. Smiling even before speaking, he exuded a refined elegance. “Envoy Qiu must be mistaken! These days happen to be the announcement of results for our Great Liang’s imperial examination. The laughter in the streets comes from those who have passed, not from welcoming anyone. Envoy Qiu, surely you know that our people of Liang are all knowledgeable and discerning?”

No sooner had he spoken than others laughed along, and the atmosphere grew slightly awkward. Indeed, Envoy Qiu had meant to say, “See? The people of your little Liang are so thrilled to welcome our prince! Look, they’re all out celebrating!”

But the people of Liang responded, “You may have misinterpreted. Our celebrations are our own—we are happy for those who succeeded in the exams, not for your prince.”

Furthermore, the official proudly added, “Did you notice, on your way here, that our city is full of scholars? These past two days, the capital has practically been overrun by them. Indeed, Liang is teeming with talent!”

Both men carried the pride of a great nation, subtly mocking others while praising themselves. But now, the carefully maintained festive atmosphere had been spoiled.

Just then, a particularly hearty laugh rang out. A man in Hu-style clothing at the head scratched his head and laughed loudly: “I’ve heard of Liang’s grand talent selection ceremony for years, but I never expected to witness it myself! Wonderful, truly wonderful!”

His voice was so loud that almost everyone could hear. All eyes turned to him, and he smiled openly, genuinely pleased.

“That’s the Second Prince of Qi!” On the other side of the lake, Lanyi pointed to the man across the water, leaning close to Zhu Jie and whispering, “Yelü Haonan.”

Hearing this, Zhu Jie couldn’t help but look up. Yelü Haonan reclined in his chair, around thirty years old, with a peculiar small braid on his head. He wore a short Hu-style coat and, when speaking, unconsciously tilted his head slightly, exuding the arrogance of one who looks down on all others. Yet, despite his air of indulgence, his eyes were sharp and shrewd—narrow and keen.

Lanyi continued, “A son like that will be hard to raise! Sister, you must be careful!” She smirked mischievously, giving Zhu Jie a knowing glance.

Zhu Jie only coldly chuckled at her words. Whose son doesn’t have his quirks? Don’t get too pleased with yourself yet.

“Thirteenth sister, what are you saying? How can you call him a son? Don’t speak recklessly about uncertain things!” Princess Lanxin quickly interjected, defending Zhu Jie.

At that moment, Yelü Haonan spoke again: “Has the palace exam been completed? Who is the top scholar?”

“Not yet!” someone replied proudly, taken aback by his humility.

But as soon as the answer began, Yelü Haonan interrupted smoothly: “Is that so? Then I must have arrived at precisely the right moment. Might I have the honor of observing the legendary palace exam of Liang?”

At his words, everyone glanced toward the emperor, who merely sipped his wine, seemingly unconcerned with their discussion.

Then the elder Wang Ge stepped forward, smiling: “It’s just some essay-type exams—there’s nothing much to see.” He was already of some age, and his slow, deliberate tone resembled an elder patiently comforting a child.

“Really? In Great Qi, our talents answer on the spot, speak eloquently, and make decisions without hesitation. Such essay exams, written from sunrise to sunset and revised countless times, can hardly reveal the true measure of one’s wisdom,” Yelü Haonan said with disdain. “Ah, truly disappointing!”