Chapter 5: The Difficulty of Conducting Business

Xie Yi found it somewhat unbelievable; the scene before him was almost comparable to the crowded seating arrangements during the postgraduate entrance examination and the train stations during the Spring Festival travel rush

Chen Prefecture belongs to Henan Circuit, with its administrative center located in Huaiyang, approximately in the area of modern-day Zhoukou in Henan Province.

Du placed great importance on this matter, especially upon hearing that Xie Yi already had a draft of poetry and prose. Although he felt somewhat skeptical, he immediately rummaged through his belongings and managed to find a set of fine, high-quality robes from his past.

Hou Junji

Xie Yi gave a faint smile; the commotion upstairs was lively, yet he did not dare to join easily. Never mind, the two manuscripts in his arms, whether for wiping or for starting a fire at home, were of no great loss.

Go ahead! Du made an awkward smile and waved in greeting

Behold, the first is Sister-in-law Du.

Forget it, it's not like we're parting for a long journey or facing life and death. Being too emotional isn't good; my sister-in-law's eyes are still red, and if her face gets all smeared from crying, it won't look good at all

Located north of the Huai River and close to the Central Plains, this area can be considered relatively affluent. Since ancient times, there have been many feudal states in this region, with numerous lords such as the King of Chen and the King of Huaiyang. Notable figures include Liu You, the son of Liu Bang, the founding emperor of the Han Dynasty, and Cao Zhi, the son of Cao Cao.

Xie Yixin felt a sense of retreat, but was unexpectedly held back by the scholar, who inquired, "Aren't you here to submit your examination papers? Why are you leaving so soon? The governor will soon arrive at Wanghu Tower to host a banquet for the talented individuals of Chen Prefecture."

The recipients of the scrolls are often high-ranking officials and nobles. If one is in the city of Chang'an, there are many potential recipients to choose from. After wandering for a while on Zhuque Street, one can observe which duke or which marquis's gate appears most appealing, and then simply approach with the poetry manuscript in hand

Xie Yi diligently recalled the historical materials he knew, as well as films and television dramas, but he simply could not remember who the Duke of Chen was during the Zhenguan period. He must have been a notable figure, but unfortunately, he could not place him.

Xie Yi quickly activated search mode, rummaging through his mind for all information regarding Hou Junji. Moments later, the most prominent two characters in the answer he obtained were still—rebellion

Huaiyang belongs to Chen Prefecture. The newly appointed governor is said to be a current duke, but his surname and given name are not yet known.

Xie Yi inquired: "Are you also one of them? Why do you stand here without stepping forward?"

If that is the case, this line of inquiry... Regardless, it cannot be pursued. Throughout history, treason has always been a grave matter, with countless individuals implicated. It is certainly not something to be taken lightly

"At Wanghu Tower... Young man, do not be in a hurry; have a bowl of soup dumplings first, so you will have the strength to compose poetry." The enthusiastic uncle serving the soup dumplings immediately revealed his true nature.

The status of a public official is quite significant, being the highest rank below that of a prince. Unless unexpected circumstances arise, they are either individuals who assisted Li Yuan in conquering the world or former generals of the Qin Wangfu who distinguished themselves during the Xuanwu Gate Incident. In any case, they hold a place in the court, are able to speak a few words in front of the emperor, and recommend talented individuals.

"Brother, are these people all here for the governor's office?" Xie Yi, lagging behind, inquired of the scholar standing by the roadside

The scholar sighed helplessly, saying: "What good would it do to step forward? Without good poetry from www.hetushu.com, one still cannot enter the Wanghu Tower..."

However, in the remote Huaiyang, far from the emperor, there is simply no choice

Upon arriving in the Tang Dynasty, Xie Yi wished to enjoy a carefree and prosperous life, but he did not want to be dragged to the guillotine a few years later, or be exiled thousands of miles away

Du approached and carefully adjusted Xie Yi's collar and cuffs, earnestly advising: "Be cautious on the road, always remember to act with reason and speak with courtesy..."

"How could that be?" Uncle Soup Cake immediately wore an expression of disdain, as if to say you are quite ignorant, and retorted, "If you don't believe it, go take a look at the Wanghu Tower outside the Governor's Office; all the talented individuals gather there."

Who is Duke Chen Guo

The deposition of a crown prince in a feudal society often signifies a bloody upheaval. After some contemplation, Xie Yi decided it would be best to keep his distance; it would be better to abandon the matter of the scrolls.

Indeed, his son-in-law is a guard of the Eastern Palace, making it easy for him to be associated with the Crown Prince. I recall that in some film and television dramas, his daughter seems to be the Crown Princess; I do not know if this is true or not, but there is no doubt about the conspiracy to rebel.

Xie Yi changed into his clothes and looked in the bronze mirror. The saying "Buddha relies on gold adornments, and people rely on their attire" indeed holds some truth. He appeared as a handsome and dashing young man! Walking down the street, one could only imagine how many young ladies and married women would stop and glance at him.

Who could be the renowned general

The scholar disdainfully remarked: "Indeed, Duke Chen is a renowned general of our dynasty, known for his valor and martial prowess..."

However, it seems rather strange for a dignified Duke to lower himself to the position of a provincial governor. Could it be that he has offended the imperial countenance and has been demoted to a remote post?

Walking on the streets of Huaiyang, Xie Yi was clear about the direction but could not recall the location of the governor's residence, so he had no choice but to seek help from passersby

"The uncle selling soup pancakes looked the young man up and down and said leisurely: 'Are you going to the Governor's Office to submit documents?'"

Oh! The scholar shot a glance at Xie Yi, moved a few steps forward, clearly feeling ashamed to be in the company of commoners. In the end, he mockingly said, "Since that is the case, do not embarrass yourself here. However, you do seem to be in good shape; why not go to the governor's office and try to enlist in the army..."

At this point, Xie Yi had already understood that in a place as "remote" as Chenzhou, opportunities for advancement were inherently scarce, especially considering that the returning individual was a heavyweight. Not only could one gain favor with the Duke of Chen, but there was also a possibility of connecting with the Crown Prince of the Eastern Palace. Although His Majesty the Emperor was in the prime of his life, one must always maintain a long-term perspective in life

Wearing tattered hemp clothing to Huaiyang City is too shabby; getting close to the governor's residence might result in being chased away as a beggar

As for his son-in-law who serves as a guard in the Eastern Palace, Xie Yi thought seriously for a moment and felt a sense of foreboding. The current Crown Prince is Li Chengqian, and if memory serves, he will be deposed a few years later due to a rebellion. Would establishing a connection with him at this time be tantamount to seeking one's own demise

When Xie Yi inquired about the location, by the time he arrived late, the area outside Wanghu Tower was teeming with people. Ultimately, a long queue had to be formed, which temporarily hindered the passage of vehicles and pedestrians.

Xie Yixiao said with a smile: "Rest assured, you can just wait to become the official wife!"

Enlistment, joining the army?" Xie Yi couldn't help but feel somewhat perplexed

Oh, isn't this Xie Sanlang? You also came to participate in the examination? Xie Yi turned to leave, but unexpectedly, someone suddenly blocked his way.

is not

Is it really the case, so many people?" Xie Yigan chuckled twice, it seems that signing the "contract of servitude" in the Tang Dynasty is quite a trend, the competition is a bit frightening.

This... I only recognize a few characters, I cannot compose poetry, I am just here to enjoy the spectacle. "Xie Yi smiled awkwardly, and his response was also quite forced

# # # .

The Thirty-Six Stratagems: Retreat is the best option

"Brother, may I ask how to address the governor?" Although the scholar pretended to be aloof, Xie Yi was not angry; gathering useful information was better than anything else.

Hello, how can you not see it? Ever since Duke Chen took office in Chenzhou, there have been no fewer than eight hundred scholars coming to take the examination. Uncle Tang Bing laughed and said, "Look at you, so refined and scholarly, how could you be an exception?"

Uh... upon thinking of the phrase "swords have no eyes," Xie Yi decisively shook his head, firmly refusing to engage in matters that could jeopardize his life. However, Xie Yi was quite curious about this Duke of Chen, as he must surely be one of the twenty-four meritorious subjects of the Lingyan Pavilion

Speculation may not be reliable; it is essential to inquire.

On a certain day of a certain month during the Zhenguan era, Hou Junji was involved in the conspiracy against Crown Prince Li Chengqian, which ultimately failed, leading to his execution

Uh..." Xie Yi was slightly taken aback, then smiled and said: "Uncle, you have a keen eye; how did you notice that this is related to the book?"

Oh, I see! It seems they have returned in defeat, yet they are still unwilling to accept it! Xie Yi, not considering the feelings of the scholar, continued to inquire: "Why are so many people submitting their scrolls?"

The scholar looked at Xie Yi with even more disdain, and said with greater contempt: "You don't even know the name of Duke Chen? Hou Junji, last year you just defeated the Tuyuhun..."

# # # .

Alright! With a hint of skepticism, Xie Yi nodded slightly and asked softly, "Uncle, how do I get to Wanghu Tower?"

"Those who can ascend the stairs have a bright future!" the scholar said with a heavy heart, "The Duke of Chen is a prominent minister of the current court, highly favored by His Majesty. Moreover... accompanying him is the Duke's son-in-law, who serves as a guard in the Eastern Palace, a trusted confidant of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince..."

Huaiyang City does not rely on mountains, but is situated by water. Just outside the city lies the vast waters of Long Lake, where the Fuxi Tomb and the divination platform where he first painted the Bagua are located.

Seeing Xie Yi in a new outfit, standing tall with his chest out, Du's eyes involuntarily turned red, lost in a daze. It was unclear whether she was moved by his return to the right path or filled with the expectations of her husband, Uncle Chenglong.

This scene ... ? ... Wouldn't it be more touching if there were another embrace, or even a farewell kiss?

Are these people all here to participate in the event? Has it become this popular?

Wanghu Tower is presumably named after Long Lake outside the city, but unfortunately, it is somewhat misnamed. The city walls obstruct the view, making it impossible to see the misty waves on the lake, and it merely serves as a forced attempt to appear cultured.

Hmph! The scholar watched as Xie Yi retreated, sneering twice before turning back to gaze at Wanghu Tower, his eyes filled with immense envy