Perhaps Mr. Sheng had simply set the questions without any of these convoluted hidden meanings.
But for an intelligent and thoughtful person like Zhao Jing, it was impossible not to read into each question, trying to discern the current state of the imperial court, Mr. Sheng's political affiliations, and his stance on government affairs.
'So this examination paper… it truly is something one can't afford to scrutinize too closely,' he thought. 'The more you think about it, the more it silences you.'
Though a whirlwind of thoughts raced through his mind, Zhao Jing's hand was exceptionally steady as he put brush to paper.
He transcribed the required passages onto the examination paper, stroke by meticulous stroke. He wrote exactly twelve characters per line, not a single one more. Each character had to be elegant and perfectly formed, such that even the most critical eye could find no fault.
