I traveled back to the Qin Dynasty, and the First Emperor begged me to become his empress.

Chapter 489 Arranging Matters Related to the Imperial Examination

Inside the Left Prime Minister's residence, the morning light shone through the exquisitely carved window lattices, casting a soft, veil-like glow on the ground, creating an interplay of light and shadow.

Princess Jiayang, Ying Wuyou, sat regally in the main seat, dressed in a magnificent brocade robe. She had grown up quite a bit in the past two years. At the age of ten, she had gradually lost the baby fat of the previous two years. Her skin was as white as snow, her face as beautiful as a peach blossom, and her round face looked very cute. However, no one dared to treat her as an ordinary child. Sitting at the head of the table, the aura she inadvertently exuded inspired awe.

Below, the Left Chancellor, Kui Zhuang, sat in the first seat on the left. Although he was over fifty, he was still vigorous, and the marks of time on his face only added to his composure and competence. He wore a dark court robe with wide sleeves that fluttered in the wind, further emphasizing his solemnity and majesty.

On the right, Chunyu Yue, the Director of the Department of Rites and Literature, sat to one side. He was dressed in a plain Confucian robe, with a lean face and an expression that carried the persistence and stubbornness unique to scholars. His gaze was piercing, as if he could see into people's hearts, and the folding fan in his hand was occasionally waved lightly, which made him look even more elegant.

Below her stood Lü Zhi, a woman of noble birth. She was tall and imposing, possessing a spirit that rivaled any man's, despite being a woman. She wore a tight-fitting black outfit that accentuated her graceful figure, a red belt cinching her waist for a touch of brightness. Her hair was styled in a high bun, secured with a jade hairpin, which further emphasized her long neck and elegant demeanor. Her gaze was resolute as she quietly awaited the start of the meeting.

"The imperial examination is a major event for selecting talents in our Great Qin. Are you all ready?" Ying Wuyou's voice was clear and melodious, yet dignified, echoing in the hall.

Kui Zhuang bowed respectfully and said in a loud voice, "Your Highness, last year's imperial examination was a great success. This year's examination will proceed according to last year's plan, and there should be no major problems. This old minister has made proper arrangements for all matters, and the examination venue setup and examiner selection are all proceeding in an orderly manner."

Ying Wuyou nodded slightly, her face showing approval: "I am naturally at ease with the Left Prime Minister's work. But does the Left Prime Minister have any new ideas or suggestions for this year's imperial examination?"

After pondering for a moment, Wei Zhuang said, "Your Highness, in my humble opinion, the imperial examination is to select pillars of the Qin Dynasty. It should not only test the students' knowledge, but also pay attention to their all-round development of character and ability. Last year's plan already reflected this aspect. This year, we can continue to strengthen the assessment of students' character. For example, in the policy essay questions, we can include more topics related to national sentiment, loyalty and righteousness."

Before Ying Wuyou could speak, Chunyu Yue couldn't help but step forward and say, "Your Highness, while the Prime Minister's words make sense, in my opinion, the imperial examinations should place greater emphasis on the embodiment of Confucianism. The Confucian virtues of 'benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness' are the foundation of governing a country. If more scholars well-versed in Confucian classics can enter the court, they will surely be able to assist His Majesty and ensure the long-term peace and stability of our Great Qin."

Kui Zhuang frowned slightly and said, "Chief Chunyu, although Confucianism is good, our Great Qin governs by law and needs talents who are proficient in the law and have practical abilities. If we emphasize Confucianism too much, it may lead students into empty talk, which will not benefit the country."

Chunyu Yue blushed slightly and argued, "The Left Prime Minister is mistaken. Confucianism is not just empty talk; it can educate all people and cultivate their character and moral cultivation. If a country lacks good moral values, how can it truly achieve long-term stability and peace, no matter how perfect its laws are?"

The two argued back and forth, neither willing to yield, and the atmosphere suddenly became somewhat tense. Ying Wuyou glanced at the two, coughed lightly, and said, "Please refrain from arguing for now. I believe that both Confucianism and Legalism have their merits, and the imperial examination should be inclusive, selecting talents who are both knowledgeable and virtuous, who can abide by the law and adapt to changing circumstances."

After hearing Ying Wuyou's words, the two fell silent and nodded slightly in agreement. At this moment, Lü Zhi, who had remained silent until now, said, "Your Highness is absolutely right. The imperial examination is for selecting talent for the Great Qin, not for selecting talent for any particular school of thought. We should proceed from the actual needs of the Great Qin and recruit talent without being bound by convention."

Ying Wuyou looked at Lü Zhi, his eyes full of admiration: "Lü Zhi, what you say is very true. You have always had unique insights into education. Last year, you personally participated in the establishment of the three colleges of Daqin Academy, Daqin Women's Academy, and Daqin Medical College, and your contributions were indispensable. Do you have any thoughts on the imperial examination?"

Empress Lü smiled slightly and said respectfully, "Your Highness, I believe that in addition to testing students' knowledge and character, the imperial examination should also focus on their practical abilities. For example, we could add some questions on analyzing real-world cases, allowing students to come up with their own solutions, thereby testing their adaptability and problem-solving skills."

Ying Wuyou nodded repeatedly upon hearing this: "This suggestion is excellent. The imperial examination cannot be merely theoretical; the selected talents must truly serve the Qin Dynasty. What do you think, Prime Minister and Director Chunyu?"

Kui Zhuang and Chunyu Yue exchanged a glance and both agreed. Kui Zhuang said, "What Lü Zhi said is exactly what this old minister thought. In this way, the talents selected through the imperial examination will not only have a solid academic foundation but also practical abilities, and will surely contribute to the prosperity of the Great Qin."

Chunyu Yue also said, "Since everyone has reached a consensus, let's proceed according to this plan. However, I hope that the Prime Minister and Her Highness the Princess will give more consideration to the assessment of Confucianism."

Ying Wuyou smiled and said, "Director Chunyu, rest assured, Confucianism will be reflected in the imperial examinations, but we cannot be too biased. We must prioritize the interests of the Great Qin and select the most outstanding talents."

The morning meeting ended in a harmonious atmosphere. Ying Wuyou stood up and looked at everyone with satisfaction: "This imperial examination is of great significance, concerning the future of our Great Qin. I hope everyone will work together to make this matter a success."

Everyone bowed and replied in unison, "We will obey Your Highness's orders!"

As Ying Wuyou's carriage gradually drove away until it disappeared at the end of the street, Wei Zhuang, Chunyu Yue, and Lü Zhi turned around and walked steadily back into the Left Prime Minister's residence.

As soon as they entered the mansion, they went straight to the study to continue their discussion about the imperial examinations, which had been interrupted earlier.

Kui Zhuang sat in the chair behind the desk, looking at Lü Zhi with a serious expression, and said slowly, "This imperial examination is of great importance, and we will have to rely on your efforts. After all, you have rich experience in education and will surely add luster to the examination."

Empress Lü smiled slightly and replied humbly, "You flatter me, Prime Minister. I am merely smattering of literature and have only a slight interest in education. It would be my honor to contribute to the imperial examinations. I will follow your instructions and do my utmost."

Chunyu Yue chimed in, "It is truly fortunate that we have reached a consensus on the imperial examination. I hope we can work together to ensure its smooth conduct."

The three exchanged a knowing smile, their understanding unspoken. They were acutely aware of the importance of the imperial examinations to the Qin Dynasty and understood the immense responsibility involved.

Finally, Wei Zhuang stood up and solemnly said, "In that case, let us each perform our duties and do our best. I believe that with our joint efforts, the imperial examination will surely be a complete success, selecting truly talented individuals for the Great Qin."

After saying this, the three of them stood up and bowed to take their leave. Lü Zhi and Chunyu Yue left first, while Wei Zhuang stayed in the study to begin preparing for the imperial examination.

Despite the arduous task, they all harbored expectations for the imperial examination and aspirations for the future of the Qin Dynasty.