Strange Tales: You're an Official, but you're raising a bunch of Demonessess? - Chapter 22

Chapter 22: The Exam Begins, Young Man in Black

Lieyang City, the Palace of Learning, served as the venue for the imperial examination. In the past, it remained closed and desolate. However, today it bustles with activity as students from the vast Qianyuan Dynasty gather for the exams, hoping to achieve success and make a mark in their careers.

Bai Yu, a young scholar in a carefree green robe, contrasts sharply with the nervous and eager crowd. Having experienced college entrance exams in his previous life, he observes the chaotic scene, realising it surpasses the grandeur of his past experiences.

Surrounded by security measures, examiners and officials stood at the entrance, diligently guiding candidates through the process. Sitting casually under the shade of a tree, Bai Yu reflected on the multitude of people and the intensity of the exams.

“It’s so crowded!” He remarked, noting the contrast between his nonchalant demeanour and the anxious expressions of others.

With his youthful appearance, Bai Yu stood out among the mostly middle-aged and older participants as thousands of individuals crammed into the venue. The Qianyuan Dynasty exams proved challenging, and not everyone possessed Bai Yu’s insightful and carefree mindset.

In this competitive environment, people recite classical literature, gaze at the sky to enhance their knowledge and engage in coarse activities to jostle for better positions. The exam’s difficulty rivalled the public exams in Bai Yu’s previous life.

Despite the tough competition, individuals believe they would be among the few who advanced to the next stage. They recited poetry while participating in the disorderly crowd, creating a lively but unrefined atmosphere more akin to a marketplace than a gathering of scholars.

Arriving at such a young age, Bai Yu observed the harsh reality of the exams, knowing that only a fraction would proceed to the next round. The struggle for a good position was evident, with some older participants enduring discomfort.

Being early was advantageous, allowing one to secure a prime spot, adjust their mindset, impress examiners, and potentially open the exam paper for answers. The crowd’s urgency to enter the venue demonstrated the significance of timing.

Amidst the chaos, Bai Yu remained calm, waiting at the end for the turbulent flow of people to pass. He appeared detached, observing a particular individual with interest, attracting the attention of onlookers.

A refined voice interrupted Bai Yu’s contemplation as a well-dressed young man in black approached, asking if he was there for the exam. With an enigmatic expression, Bai Yu appraised the newcomer, who possessed gentle features and a fair complexion.

The scorching sun beat down, yet he remained clad in dark attire. Two attendants trailed behind him, presenting an extraordinary presence. Bai Yu sensed skilled hidden guards nearby.

After a brief assessment, he nodded in approval, “Indeed!” The man in black praised Bai Yu’s talent for undertaking the capital’s examination at such a young age.

Bai Yu modestly replied, “Just average. No need to envy.” The man in black remained silent.

Curious, the man asked, “Why are you so calm? Why not step forward and compete with others?” Bai Yu countered, “Didn’t you abstain too?”

The man shook his head, “I’m neither a scholar nor an examinee. No need to compete.”

Bai Yu remarked, “So, are you here to watch a monkey show?”

The man hesitated, “Uh…”.

Bai Yu continued, “Calling the imperial examination a monkey show? That’s a bit extreme!”

The man then explained the importance of competing in the examination.

Bai Yu chuckled, “They’re just small fish. Let them lead. What does it matter to a whale shark like me?” The man in black was shocked by Bai Yu’s audacity.

Observing the commotion, Bai Yu asked, “Aren’t scholars here just to watch this monkey show?” He provocatively added, “Do you want me to be the monkey?”

The man in black was surprised, and Bai Yu, analysing him, said, “Your tone suggests a higher class… Let me guess, who are you?” The man felt exposed.

Trying to divert, the man said, “Haha, just kidding! May I know your name?”

Bai Yu revealed, “Bai Yu from Liuzhou.”

The man, claiming to be Xilan from Kyoto, changed the topic.

Bai Yu stated, “If you have to hide your identity, chatting is boring.” He suggested, “Next time, be more open, Your Highness!” As he left, he humorously advised, “And don’t be too harsh on your chest. It might hurt…”