Chen Jingyu's injuries healed as though aided by the gods.
After the day Jiang Zhizhou spoke with him at length, he improved day by day.
Chen Jingyu harbored a burning resentment. Now that he was alive, his sole purpose was to wash away the injustice he had suffered.
Five days after Chen Jingyu regained consciousness, Jiang Zhizhou once again sat beside his sickbed.
"Young Master Jiang, thank you for saving my life."
Chen Jingyu knew nothing of Jiang Zhizhou's background, only that his surname was Jiang.
Jiang Zhizhou nodded slightly. "You needn't dwell on it. I merely raised my voice when I saw injustice on the road. However..."
Seeing his solemn expression, Chen Jingyu knew he must have something important to tell him. He immediately sat up straighter. "If you have instructions, Young Master Jiang, please speak freely."
"However, do you know what consequences you might face for bringing charges against an examination proctor?"
Chen Jingyu's gaze was resolute. "This student understands, of course. At worst, I will die, but my death must be upright and honorable."
"In that case, I will give you the opportunity."
Chen Jingyu's eyes suddenly widened.
An opportunity? Young Master Jiang said he would give me an opportunity?
Seeing Chen Jingyu's excitement, Jiang Zhizhou rose and patted his shoulder. "At the beginning of the new year, His Majesty will visit the Mang Mountain Hunting Grounds, as is customary."
A glimmer of light flashed in Chen Jingyu's eyes at those words.
Indeed, His Majesty would visit the Mang Mountain Hunting Grounds for the spring hunt. If he wanted to approach him, that was his only chance.
As though he knew what Chen Jingyu was thinking, Jiang Zhizhou continued, "Naturally, you cannot get onto Mang Mountain. Imperial guards are stationed throughout the grounds and around their perimeter.