The bustle of the victory parade was like a sudden tide.
When it surged in, it swept over everything; when it receded, it did so without a sound.
In just three to five days, the talk had shifted from "What a fine figure the top scholar cut" to "Who will receive an appointment first this examination season?"
In the small courtyard of the Wei Residence outside West Peace Gate.
Wei Nisheng sat on a stone stool, staring blankly at the sky.
He was lost in thought because he was waiting for his official appointment.
Once the Palace Examination results were posted, the destinations of the top three were set in stone.
The top scholar would be appointed a compiler at the Hanlin Academy, Subordinate Sixth Rank.
The runner-up and third-place scholar would be appointed editors at the Hanlin Academy, Principal Seventh Rank.
This was the rule in Great Zhou. It had remained unchanged for over a century, and there was no need to wait to learn the outcome.
What sort of place was the Hanlin Academy?
It housed the emperor's literary attendants and served as the court's reserve of talent.
Only Presented Scholars could enter the Hanlin Academy; only Hanlin academicians could enter the Grand Secretariat.
Entering the Hanlin Academy meant joining the list of prospective grand secretaries.
Failing to enter meant taking a long detour-one that might never lead back in an entire lifetime.
Wei Nisheng knew very well that his title of top scholar was merely an admission ticket.
Entering the Hanlin Academy would be the true beginning.
"Young master, have a slice of melon. It's hot."
Just then, Qu Niang brought a plate of freshly sliced sweet melon out of the kitchen.
"Qu Niang, sit down and have some too. It's starting to get hot now