Chapter 7 Literature Conference

However, when they saw that the newcomer was a twelve-year-old boy, they couldn't help but be a little surprised. They never expected that this person would be today's top scholar.

He looked fragile, but there was a glint in his eyes.

After seeing these scholars, Chen Ping'an was confident and composed. He carried himself with the air of a former cabinet minister, and did not show any signs of timidity. Instead, he made a strong impression on everyone present.

These scholars were straightforward and admired talent. In their conversations with Chen Ping'an, they realized that his reputation as the top scholar was well-deserved, and they all enjoyed their discussions with him.

Midway through the literary gathering, the county magistrate arrived. His visit was to get to know the top scholar of this year. He had read the top scholar's writings, and if this person were to rise to a prominent position in the future, the acquaintance made today would surely be beneficial.

Even if not, his participation in this literary gathering with scholars was praised by the people. The county magistrate mingling with the common folk was very endearing.

Naturally, the county magistrate's visit was facilitated by someone who recommended Chen Ping'an. After seeing Chen Ping'an, the county magistrate was also surprised. The top scholar's writings did not seem to match the appearance of this child.

As he thought about it, he looked at the county magistrate with less warmth in his eyes. However, it was only a moment, and he quickly regained his usual composure.

After participating in the literary gathering, it was already late in the day. The person who had invited Chen Ping'an to the gathering personally escorted him back and arranged to meet him at the examination hall of the prefectural school.

Chen Ping'an had a favorable impression of this person. He was a nobleman's son and conducted himself with humility and courtesy, embodying the etiquette expected of a scholar.

Upon returning to the inn, Jiang Yar had already packed their belongings. Despite earning some money by transcribing books at the bookstore during the day, they could afford to stay a few more days without financial strain.

They were to return to Chenjiawan the next day. After returning, Chen Ping'an would prepare for the prefectural examination. Although the prefectural examination was a piece of cake for him, he needed to find a way to make his writing appear as if it were written by the twelve-year-old Chen Ping'an.

Having been in office for many years, he knew well that the nail that sticks out gets hammered down. Having obtained the top scholar title had already aroused jealousy in others. If he were to succeed in the prefectural school, it would only intensify.

After a simple meal, Chen Ping'an went to bed, but Jiang Yar continued to tidy up on the floor. "Yar, come and sleep on the bed," he said.

In recent days, Jiang Yar had been sleeping on the floor. Chen Ping'an knew that he always asked her to sleep on the bed, but she always refused.

As a delicate girl, she couldn't bear to sleep on the cold floor in this bone-chilling February weather. She knew it would cause problems.

As usual, Jiang Yar shook her head to indicate that she wasn't sleepy yet.

Chen Ping'an insisted, "Yar, come and sleep on the bed. I won't feel at ease if you're not next to me."

In recent days, Jiang Yar had been absent-minded. Chen Ping'an thought she was homesick, as she had never been away from home for such a long time. He didn't pay much attention to it.

Unable to resist Chen Ping'an's insistence, Jiang Yar reluctantly got onto the bed, but she only occupied a small corner. Chen Ping'an couldn't help but smile. They were both so small that they didn't take up much space.

The next morning, Jiang Yar got up early. They were going back home today, and the news of Ping'an obtaining the top scholar title was great. His mother would surely be overjoyed when she found out.

When the time came, Ping'an showed no intention of getting up. Jiang Yar had to gently wake him up. They needed to leave early to return to Chenjiawan.

After getting up, they had a simple breakfast and set off.

At this point, they were unaware that Chenjiawan, a small village, was bustling with excitement. Two days ago, after the county examination results were announced, a yamen runner had arrived in the village to announce that Chen Ping'an had obtained the top scholar title. Over the years, there had been few scholars from their village, and now, Chenjiawan had produced two.

Upon hearing the news, Mrs. Wu was beaming with joy. She knew that their Ping'an was capable. Not only had he passed the examination, but he had also obtained the top scholar title. The Wu family was now the center of attention in the village.

After receiving the news, Mrs. Wu couldn't stop smiling. She knew that their Ping'an was a capable young man. Not only had he passed the examination, but he had also obtained the top scholar title.

Now she had a radiant smile on her face, waiting to see what the in-laws would have to say. Her son was more successful than her grandson, which made all her efforts worthwhile.

"The Chen family is really having good luck."

"Yeah, it doesn't seem like Ping'an is very clever."

"He's just good at studying."

"Not like our son, who only knows how to eat all day."

It had been a long time since Chenjiawan had been so lively, and visitors kept coming, hoping to share in the Chen family's joy.

Mrs. Wu greeted these people with a smile. The messenger informed her that Ping'an would be participating in a literary gathering held by the county, so he might be delayed in returning home for a day or two.

So whenever someone wanted to see Ping'an, Mrs. Wu proudly told them that he had been invited to the literary gathering. For the villagers, meeting the county magistrate was a great opportunity.

The envy of others grew even stronger.

Some people took the opportunity to tease Mrs. Wu, saying that with her son's great abilities and achievements, she should hold a big celebration to let the whole village know.

Mrs. Wu knew what they were getting at, so she just smiled and didn't agree. These people came to congratulate Ping'an, but their hands were empty, clearly expecting to be treated to a meal.

Even if she set up a table, she wouldn't invite them.