After the early dynasty, word spread in Xianyang City that Ying Zheng wanted to establish the imperial examination system. Unlike the nobles and officials who opposed it, this event was definitely a good thing that shocked the hearts of the people.
In one morning, this incident spread throughout Xianyang City and beyond.
Even Zhang Liang, who was hiding outside the city, received the news.
He was a little confused and didn't understand what Ying Zheng was trying to do. He was even speculating in his mind that there was a bigger conspiracy behind the imperial examination system.
But some people don't think so, such as Gu Siyuan from the Gu family.
Although the Gu family is rich, in the eyes of these upper-class nobles, their businessmen are the lowest class of people, and they are not worthy of being in the same room with them, let alone being officials in the same dynasty.
Even if Gu Siyuan wanted to use money to buy an official position, those people looked down on him, and he would only be ostracized after entering the court.
So even if he had this idea in his mind, he had just stayed with Gu Zongmin for so many years, thinking about how to run the family business, without showing any desire.
But now, he had received this news, how could he not be excited?
He couldn't wait to find Gu Zongmin, and as soon as he entered the door, he started to say: "Father, I want to give it a try too!"
"Since His Majesty has given the order, those people will definitely not dare to embarrass me!"
Gu Zongmin, who was looking at the account books, knew when he heard Gu Siyuan's words that he was talking about the imperial examination system.
In the past few days, he was preparing for the four major salt merchants to enter Xianyang. Zhang Hanlai told him that when these people entered Xianyang City, he would be required to receive them.
Therefore, he would only pay attention to the affairs of the imperial court, but he would not take them seriously.
Now when he suddenly heard Gu Siyuan say this, he was a little surprised.
"In a few days, people from the Miao family, Li family, Rong family and Zi family will be here. There are still many things to deal with, so don't cause any trouble!"
Gu Zongmin has been in Xianyang City for so many years. Although he cannot know all the thoughts of those officials, he can still dare to say that he understands this kind of thing very well.
Even if it is for their own interests, they will not compromise this matter easily. Even if the imperial examination system can be carried out smoothly, those people who can finally enter the court as officials will probably still be those people.
Only a fool like his son would truly believe that the imperial examination system could proceed smoothly.
"The imperial examination system is just a rumor. His Majesty has not officially announced the decree yet. Don't take it too seriously."
"If the news of the imperial examination system spreads throughout Daqin, it is estimated that many people will flock to Xianyang. It will be a good opportunity for us to make money. You can help me take care of the affairs of the house during this time."
"As for those court affairs, we, the Gu family, are not allowed to get involved. You'd better give up!"
"Okay, let's get down."
Gu Siyuan looked at his father with a sad look in his eyes, and he knew that Gu Zongmin would not agree.
But he wouldn't give up just like that. He turned around and left the room, his whole back showing his unhappiness.
"Hmph, I have my own way!"
Looking at his leaving figure, Gu Zongmin shook his head helplessly.
He knew that Gu Siyuan probably went to Xianyang Prison. During this period, whatever delicious and fun food Gu Siyuan got, he would send a portion to Ran Fang in prison.
Sometimes he would often go to Xianyang Prison to play chess and chat with Ran Fang. Even if he stayed with Ran Fang without talking, Gu Siyuan would be in a much better mood when he came back.
Therefore, he let the matter go. After all, it would be beneficial to the Gu family to have a good relationship with Ran Fang.
"Silly boy!"
"Some things are not something you can do just because you want to."
"What's the use of looking for Ran Fang?"
"He can help the Gu family's business to a higher level, but there is no way he can resist the ministers in the court!"
Gu Siyuan didn't know that Gu Zongmin didn't think highly of him, nor did he think that the other party could change this matter.
He just felt angry, why didn't his father support him? He needed a place to vent his feelings and someone who was willing to support him.
In his opinion, Ran Fang would definitely agree with this.
There is no reason, just based on my intuition.
When they came to Xianyang Prison, Ran Fang and Fusu had already managed to turn a blind eye to him. After all, every time he came, he would talk non-stop, and Ran Fang was getting tired of it.
Later, every time he came over, Ran Fang and Fu Su turned a deaf ear to his words. He was the only one talking there, and he felt very happy.
Just like now, he was sitting there angrily, and the expression on his face clearly showed that he was in a bad mood at the moment, and no one came up to ask him.
He just sat there sulking. After a while, Gu Siyuan, who felt a little embarrassed, couldn't help but ask: "Sir, won't you ask me?"
"Can't you see I'm angry?"
Ran Fang raised his head, just glanced at him, and then continued his movements without any intention of stopping for him.
Seeing this, Gu Siyuan had no choice but to speak on his own.
When he was about to speak, he suddenly noticed that Xianyang Prison seemed to be particularly quiet today, and he couldn't help but asked in confusion: "Hey, where are those corrupt officials?"
"Why are they all missing?"
"Have they all been released?"
After hearing his words, Fusu was the first to reply: "This morning, everyone from Tingwei's Mansion was taken away."
"Yes, His Majesty has ordered that the officials who have been investigated clearly should be punished according to the crimes they committed. No matter how big or small the crime is, they must pay the price."
"As for those corrupt officials, after thorough investigation, they will be handed over to the Tingwei Mansion. It is estimated that the corruption case will have a result."
"The officials who were wrongly accused were also released this morning."
Gu Siyuan nodded in understanding and did not continue to ask about the matter.
When no one is here, he lets himself go even more.
"I see."
"No wonder His Majesty gave the sudden order today. It turns out that all these people in the court have been dealt with."
After hearing his words, Fusu asked with some confusion: "What is your Majesty's decree?"
Seeing that Fusu didn't know anything, Gu Siyuan was also a little surprised. Could it be that even Fusu and Ran Fang didn't know about this?
What should he do about this matter?
He looked at Ran Fang and saw that he seemed very concerned and didn't seem to listen to them. He just lowered his head and did his own thing, which made Gu Siyuan even more frustrated.
He thought for a moment and said in a somewhat decadent tone: "This morning, His Majesty suddenly issued an order, saying that the imperial examination system will be held. Anyone who is from the Qin Dynasty can participate, regardless of their status."
When he mentioned the words "imperial examination system", Ran Fang's movements stopped.
Fusu's originally indifferent expression suddenly became tense. He saw the movements in Ran Fang's hands, and then looked at Gu Siyuan nervously.
He kept winking at Gu Siyuan, hoping that he would stop talking, and worried that he would suddenly reveal bigger news.
Unfortunately, Gu Siyuan didn't see his look, and kept talking: "Although it hasn't been announced yet, the news has been received in Xianyang City, and people are discussing it."
"His Majesty also said that a scientific examination will be held in Xianyang City in five months. The top five will be able to serve as officials in the court. I will also participate when the time comes!"
"Maybe I can get an official position too!"
"Sir, what do you think?"
"If I participate, can I succeed?"
He looked at Ran Fang excitedly and nervously, but saw that the expression on his face was half-smiling.
He was a little confused and asked uncertainly: "Sir?"