Chapter 21 Preparation
"Father, to achieve second place is already more than I could have hoped for. How could I possibly ask for more?" Li Shiming said to his father, Li WenYuan, with a smile.
He also understood that, based on the examination papers during the Imperial Examination, if there were no other factors, there would have been no problem for him to achieve the top scorer position.
From what Li WenYuan said, because of his status as the son of a Magistrate, the chief examiner had considered the need to avoid suspicion and hence changed his deserved top scorer recognition to second place.
"I've seen your answers. That top scorer was not just a little better than you!" Li WenYuan said, shaking his head.
Li Shiming was, of course, well aware of this. Not to mention his understanding and application of classics, even the final policy discussion paper was obtained from a former top scorer in another era.
Using a top scorer's paper in the Imperial Examination to outperform all other candidates was a normal occurrence.
"Initially, your participation in this Imperial Examination was just meant to give you more experience for the one three years later. I didn't expect that at just fifteen years old, you would have to leave home for the Central Capital, and I can't leave Nanling Prefecture to accompany you!" Li WenYuan continued, sounding somewhat worried.
This was indeed a happy worry. Participating in the spring examination at fifteen and, should he pass and become an Advanced Scholar, it would indeed be considered a good omen at the court. While he was happy as a father, he couldn't help but worry about his young son leaving home.
"Father, I am not a child anymore!" Li Shiming quickly said. He didn't want his father's worries to affect his plans to go to the Central Capital.
"I am not stopping you from participating in the spring examination. This time going to the Central Capital, I will arrange for a naval officer's ship and bring along a team of escorts. Bring Si Qin and inkstone as well, and when you arrive, stay in our old home there. I will write a few letters on your behalf, to pay visits to some of your uncles!" Li WenYuan rambled a bit, lacking his usual authority.
But Li Shiming felt his father's sincere affection. Having merged with the memories and emotions of his original body, to him, Li WenYuan was his father in this world.
"Ah, here, I personally roasted this tea, and it turned out quite well. You can drink it regularly, and I'll also respond when you do!" Due to the slightly awkward atmosphere, Li Shiming changed the subject, pointing to the three tea canisters he had brought as he stood up to take his leave.