Xiao He was just about to slip away when someone behind him called out sharply, stopping him.
He turned and saw Chen Jingyu standing there, staring at him without blinking.
A smile promptly spread across his face. He raised his hands in a salute and said, "I never imagined this would turn out to be the truth. Jingyu, you've suffered terribly!"
"At last, the clouds have parted and the moon has emerged. I must offer you my congratulations."
Chen Jingyu's expression remained indifferent. He did not return the salute, merely looked Xiao He in the eyes and said, "Thank you, Brother Xiao."
Xiao He waved a hand. "After all, we sat the same Spring Examination. It's only right that we look out for one another."
"Now that you've been cleared of this injustice, I'm truly happy for you. Go home and prepare well. When the Autumn Examination comes, you're sure to take first place!"
As he spoke, Xiao He headed toward the exit. "I've now received imperial favor and been granted admission to the Hanlin Academy. There are many matters awaiting my attention there, so I won't trouble you any longer."
"Wait!" Chen Jingyu called out, stopping Xiao He. Then he turned to the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review. "My lord, there is still one matter this commoner does not understand. I would ask your assistance in settling it."
The minister had already learned something of Chen Jingyu and knew that, but for this bribery incident, he should have placed among the top three. His regard for Chen Jingyu had therefore changed.
"What else is there?"
Chen Jingyu bowed to the minister. "Just now, the examiner admitted that he had failed to investigate the bribery allegation thoroughly, thereby branding this commoner as dishonorable."
"But in this commoner's view,