A Concubine-Born Son Takes the Imperial Exams, Starting by Tearing His Top-Ranked Legitimate Brother to Shreds

His eldest brother placed third in the imperial examinations, and the whole family celebrated. Only he, an illegitimate son, and his mother, a former songstress, became the laughingstock in the corner.

A congratulatory gift? He couldn't afford one.

New clothes? He had none.

Even whether he could attend the banquet depended on other people's moods.

"Fifth Young Master, you'd better not go. You don't want to be humiliated."

"Fifth Young Master, your mother's background..."

Zhao Qin raised his head, his gaze frighteningly calm.

"My eldest brother placed third. That's his achievement."

"But my mother is someone I'll protect with my life. Anyone who dares make her suffer, even a little, will regret it for the rest of his life."