Keeping a low profile, both in conduct and in deed, has always been the Chen family's ancestral rule for making a living in the capital.
Like his father, Chen Daojing had no great ambitions. He thought it would be enough to pass the exams for a minor official post, so he could support his family.
That was until his only elder sister was summoned to the palace for selection and made a Beauty.
As a sister-obsessed older brother, Chen Daojing could no longer lie flat.
If he amounted to nothing, even seeing his sister would become a pipe dream, let alone helping her if she ever suffered mistreatment.
Chen Daojing mapped out a career path that would let him rise quickly.
Step one: get into the Imperial Academy!
Getting into the Imperial Academy was like grabbing hold of a ladder to heaven.
But for an ordinary person with no power or connections, getting in was incredibly difficult. With no back door to take, his only option was to pass the entrance exams on his own merits.
Chen Daojing really was trying his hardest, but it seemed he just wasn't cut out to be a top student.
Just as studying was about to kill him, an imperial edict arrived from the palace.
In only two months, his sister Chen Minyue had skipped right past the rank of Noble Lady and been made a Consort. As a result, he was also granted special permission to enter the Imperial Academy.
Chen Daojing: ...The result is right, but something about the process seems off.
Never mind. As long as the result is right.
Next step: build connections and earn honors!
After being brought back to earth, Chen Daojing discovered that earning honors might be a little difficult...
Fine, a change of plan. Then he'll build connections! Build connections!!
Making friends is something he's good at!!!
Later on...
Xie Zhehong's face darkened. "What exactly is your relationship with them?!"
Chen Daojing looked at him, baffled and innocent. "Friends."
Xie Zhehong's expression softened a little. "And what about me?"
Chen Daojing shouted, "Best friend!"
Xie Zhehong: ...
Theme: Stand on your own feet and strive for success.
