The rain was light, but there was no standing up to its relentless fall. The young man stood dazed for a moment before finally running toward the city-or rather, toward the densely packed buildings and the streets of Pingzhou.
Only after everyone had left did Yu Xinmei appear again. She looked at the figure racing through the rain and let out a small breath of relief, then turned her gaze to the spot where he had fallen.
Yu Xinmei walked over, crouched down, and picked up something resembling an envelope.
"Zheng Yiming, tribute scholar of Xiahe County."
Was this an entry document for the Examination Hall? Zheng Yiming?
Yu Xinmei looked in the direction where his figure had already vanished, a faint smile appearing on her face. He was taking the Imperial Examination? If he could enjoy wealth, honor, and a happy life, that would be nice too!
In Pingzhou City, Zheng Yiming was still racing through the rain. The streets around him were not entirely unfamiliar; after all, this was not his first visit.
Rumble-
The thunder exploded overhead, giving Zheng Yiming a fright. He glanced at the sky. The rain showed signs of growing heavier, but fortunately, his destination was already close.
Whoosh, patter, patter...
Almost at the very moment the rain intensified, Zheng Yiming rushed into an inn, startling both the waiter and the innkeeper.
"Oh my, sir! It's barely morning, and you're already soaked through!"
While the waiter spoke, the innkeeper looked at Zheng Yiming, who was busily patting at his clothes, and asked a question.
"Would you like a room, sir, or something to eat?"
Only then did Zheng Yiming raise his head and look toward the counter.
"Innkeeper, it's me, Zheng Yiming!"
The innkeeper paused, then broke into a smile.
"So it's Young Master