It was just past Mid-Autumn Festival, so there was no delay in celebrating. Chu Heng chose this date right from the start.
Chu Heng sent someone to notify the students registered for the exam that it would be held this afternoon.
Elder Zhong followed him into the courtyard, took a look, and found that the side rooms on both sides had been connected.
In the middle was a long table, which could seat over twenty people.
On both sides were some individual desks and chairs.
Just like workstations of later generations.
Bookshelves were placed all around, filled with various books: classics, histories, collections, and others. Besides some rare editions, all kinds of market books were available.
"This place is quite nice," Elder Zhong remarked, admiring not just the location but also marveling at Chu Hengâs swift actions. Although Chu Heng briefed him before, he didnât expect Chu Heng to act so promptly.
This was much faster than other yamenâs actions.
No wonder heâs a man of action.
He nodded discreetly, feeling quite impressed, especially in recent days, as many officials visited his residence, wanting to understand the Emperorâs current intentions.
Because Chu familyâs bathhouse had the storybook, which by today, had only the final conclusion left.
However, the content from these two days had a significant impact on these officials.
Yan Sanlangâs actions reflected many of these people, whereas officials similar to Zhou Wulang seemed less worried.
Originally, officials from noble families intended to use this chance to topple Chu Heng.
Who knew it was a deadly weapon; anyone involved was doomed.
They all wished to pretend they had no part in it.
Ultimately, it was merely the Emperorâs dissatisfaction with some officials, and those who were overly active before had undoubtedly become thorns in the Emperorâs side.
Thinking of the demoralized Minister Qi and Imperial Censor Zhang.
Elder Zhong shook his head, let out a soft laugh.
In the capital.
Because of Chu Hengâs command.
The imperial examination candidates, having just learned the news, were variously busy, with some receiving the information almost at the exam hour, even rushing hastily from outside the city.
Overall, as Chu Heng and Elder Zhong stood in front of the courtyard, watching the hundred plus candidates being let in, their ages varied, but most were already over thirty.
It must be said that these candidates were more enthusiastic than the first place in the examination seekers, genuinely wanting to become officials; otherwise, they wouldnât be wearing wrinkled, worn clothes and unwilling to leave the capital.
Chu Heng looked at Elder Zhong.
Elder Zhong nodded and said, "Todayâs exam is simple, just answer the questions. Results will be announced today."
"Since everyoneâs here, letâs get seated and prepare."
Chu Heng: "Sit down according to your identity names on the tables. We will begin after a tea break."
Upon hearing this, the candidates hurried to find their names, as they were numbered initially, making it easy to locate.
Once all the scholars were seated, Chu Heng instructed the bailiffs to distribute the exam papers.
The exam lasted an hour.
Everyone submitted their exams.
Chu Heng and Elder Zhong had been waiting inside, saw the bailiffs collect the papers, and then started grading them in batches.
Both needed to read all the exams, and based on each otherâs opinions, select suitable candidates.
Chu Heng graded quickly.
By the time he finished grading over a hundred exams, less than an hour had passed.
He rubbed his shoulder and asked the bailiffs to serve Elder Zhong tea.
Selected those he was quite satisfied with and stepped aside to rest.
After drinking two cups of tea.
Elder Zhong put down the pen and ink, rubbed his somewhat aching wrist.
"Alright, since Zi Qiu, youâve already selected people, letâs focus on these individuals first."