We have fought to the Arctic Circle, and you want me to inherit the throne?

Chapter 941 The Top Scholar's Wish

boom--

The crowd trembled again, this time with the expected gasp of amazement.

Zhang Han was a dark horse who appeared out of nowhere, while Lin Qingyuan was a renowned talent who came in second in the imperial examination and was on friendly terms with the newly crowned champion Zhang Qian.

His third-place finish was, in most people's eyes, a matter of course.

When Lin Qingyuan heard his name called, he didn't show much surprise on his face, maintaining his usual calm and composed demeanor.

He calmly straightened his clothes and gracefully returned the congratulatory glances from the crowd.

Zhang Qian and his fellow disciples from Yunmeng Mountain immediately surrounded him and offered their congratulations.

Zhang Qian patted Lin Qingyuan's shoulder forcefully, his eyes filled with genuine joy for his brother.

Those who had been secretly criticizing Lin Qingyuan were now completely silent.

They weren't just lucky; they're genuinely talented!

He ranked second in the provincial examination and third in the palace examination, which is a true testament to his overwhelming talent.

No wonder he's on such good terms with the top scholar; big shots only befriend other big shots.

Then, Qian Bin mustered his strength and began to announce the list of the second-class "Jinshi graduates" and the third-class "Tongjinshi graduates".

After reading over six hundred names, Qian Bin was visibly exhausted; his face was slightly pale, and his voice was a little hoarse.

When the last name was read, the old man, supporting the arm of the eunuch beside him, breathed a few breaths.

Only then did he straighten his back again and loudly declare:

"All newly appointed scholars shall immediately enter the Imperial City and pay homage to His Majesty in the Jiying Hall—"

After the ceremony of announcing the names of the newly appointed scholars was completed, the newly appointed scholars, guided by officials from the Ministry of Rites, entered the Imperial City to pay their respects.

Li Che attached great importance to the imperial examination system, which was reflected in all aspects of his life.

For example, a main hall was specially renovated and renamed Jiying Hall, specifically to welcome these newly appointed scholars, meaning "gathering talents from all over the world".

Upon entering the Hall of Heroes, one is greeted by a spacious and magnificent building.

The imperial guards on both sides stood solemnly with their halberds in hand, their eyes fixed straight ahead.

Officials from the Ministry of Rites, dressed in court robes, stood on both sides.

Before the palace steps, there was a gleaming golden imperial desk, on which were neatly arranged the robes, hats, and court boots of the successful candidates, as well as gifts such as gold flowers and silver ingots.

Li Che sat upright on his throne. Although he was not wearing a solemn imperial robe, his imperial majesty was still evident. He calmly watched the newly appointed scholars who were entering the palace in single file.

Looking at these energetic faces, he felt a surge of satisfaction.

This first step in breaking the monopoly of knowledge held by aristocratic families has finally been taken.

The six hundred newly appointed Jinshi (successful candidates in the highest imperial examinations) were arranged neatly according to their ranking in the first rank.

The top scholar, Zhang Qian, stood at the very front, followed by the second-place scholar, Zhang Han, and then the third-place scholar, Lin Qingyuan.

This order, seemingly determined by academic performance, actually contains Li Che's deeper meaning.

Zhang Qian represents the lowest level of ordinary people, Zhang Han represents the bureaucratic class that maintains the operation of the country, and Lin Qingyuan represents the hermits and high-ranking families who are detached from the system.

Then came the students from humble backgrounds who were originally from prominent families.

Officials from the Ministry of Rites stepped forward and led all the newly appointed scholars to bow and pay homage to the emperor on the throne, shouting "Long live the emperor!"

After the ceremony, Wen Zaiyin, holding a yellow silk register of names, announced loudly: "The top-ranking scholars have passed the imperial examination; come forward to express your gratitude—"

Then, the clear and melodious voice of the eunuch Huai En rang out.

"Zhang Qian of Fenzhou, a top-ranking scholar in the imperial examination, comes forward to express his gratitude—"

Zhang Qian took a deep breath, suppressing the surging emotions in his heart.

He then walked a few steps away from the imperial desk, cupped his hands, and bowed deeply: "Your student Zhang Qian thanks Your Majesty for your divine grace!"

Li Che looked at the simple farmer's son, his eyes filled with undisguised admiration: "No need for formalities."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

An official from the Ministry of Rites stepped forward, picked up the imperial bestowed scholar's crown and belt, scarlet robe, gold flowers, and other items, and handed them to Zhang Qian.

Just as Zhang Qian was about to express his gratitude again and step back, he heard Li Che's gentle voice from the throne: "Wait a moment."

The hall fell silent instantly.

Li Che looked at Zhang Qian and said with a smile, "Zhang Qian, you are the first top scholar in the imperial examination of this dynasty, which greatly pleases me."

"I am in high spirits today, and in addition to these routine rewards, I will grant you one wish."

"Speak, what do you want? As long as it is within my power, I will grant it."

Upon hearing this, everyone in the Hall of Heroes was shaken, and countless gazes instantly focused on Zhang Qian.

His Majesty has granted a wish with a single word—what an extraordinary favor!

This thing is more valuable than a thousand pieces of gold, ten thousand pieces of gold, or even ten million pieces of gold!

If Zhang Qian had been bolder, he could have seized this opportunity to seek a noble title or a fortune, and a new noble family would have been born in no time.

Zhang Qian hesitated for a moment, then boldly asked in return, "This student... this student dares to ask Your Majesty, according to etiquette, should this student immediately enter the court to serve as an official, without any delay?"

Upon hearing this, Li Che was amused by his question and nodded, saying, "Of course. You are the newly appointed top scholar, and the officials of the Six Ministries are probably already eager to snatch you up."

After saying that, he looked at Wen Zaiyin beside him.

Wen Zaiyin stroked his beard and nodded: "If the top scholar is willing to come to the Ministry of Rites, this old minister will certainly welcome him with open arms!"

Li Che added, "Not only them, but I also hope that you will soon share my burdens and serve the country."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Qian showed no further hesitation and carefully placed the crown, robe, and ceremonial garment he was holding on the ground in front of him.

He then knelt down and touched the ground with his head, saying, "In that case, Your Majesty, I beg you to grant me a six-month leave!"