After Mistakenly Binding The Matchmaker System

Tyrant's Beloved (3)

Li Cheng stood up from his seat, paced in the study for a few steps, and pondered, "After the beginning of spring is the Spring Examinations that come every three years. Are you going to participate directly or wait for another three years?"

"I plan to give it a try this time."

"That's good. But don't put too much pressure on yourself. Entering the court as an official is not the only path. Take care of your health and don't exhaust yourself."

The examination system in this world was similar to the one in Li Shu's previous world, held every three years. The first round, known as the local examination or provincial exam (Xiangshi), took place in the autumn and was organized by local authorities. Those who pass are called Juren.

The second round, held in the following year during spring, was the national examination or metropolitan exam (Huishi), also known as the Spring Examinations. The successful Juren from across the country gather in the capital, and those who pass become Gongshi.

The third and final round, the palace examination or palace exam (Dianshi), was held later that year and overseen by the Emperor. It consisted of one essay question on current affairs, and the top three scorers become Zhuangyuan, Bangyan, and Tanhua, respectively.

However, there are differences. In the current Great Zhou Dynasty, most officials are recommended by influential families rather than through the imperial examinations. For aristocratic descendants, being recommended by their elders into officialdom is much easier than taking the imperial examinations, which was why Li Cheng told Li Shu to preserve to the end.

The original owner had passed the provincial exam three years ago, but missed the national exam that year due to health reasons, and now had the status of Juren. Because of this status, he could directly participate in the upcoming Spring Examinations. In the plot provided by the system, the original owner would successfully pass the national exam this time, and in the palace exam, he would be appointed as Tanhua (third place) by the Emperor, mirroring Li Cheng's experience years ago.

As the year-end approached, the household, led by Li Cheng, went to Xian Guo Temple for blessings, a tradition in the Li family.

The morning before the departure, the steward specifically came to remind Li Shu, who was on the travel list this time, to pack his belongings and prepare for the journey tomorrow.

In the previous years, due to health issues, the original owner couldn't participate in such family activities. Upon hearing the steward's words, several maidservants were delighted. Even Qinghe, who usually looked composed, showed an unusual excitement.

"That's great." After seeing off the steward, Qinghe stood on the veranda and looked at Li Shu reading in the courtyard. She silently thought, 'The young master's health has finally improved, and the Lord, who has been indifferent to the young master, is now paying attention again. I hope everything gets better from now on.'

Sensing Qinghe's gaze, Li Shu's eyes didn't look away and he calmly said, "Qinghe, go pack your things. You'll accompany me tomorrow."

"Yes, young master." Qinghe bowed and withdrew.

Qinghe was left by the original owner's mother and, grateful for the favor, remained wholeheartedly loyal. A useful subordinate, she was intelligent, cautious, loyal, and obedient. Unfortunately, she served a master who opposed the protagonist, and her ending was very tragic.

Qinghe went to her room to prepare for the journey. Xiao Tao came over, took her arm, and asked affectionately, "Sister Qinghe, did the young master mention who will accompany him on this visit to Xian Guo Temple?"