Jiang Yanning had a dream.
She was chosen by the Crown Prince of the Eastern Palace, imprisoned behind towering walls, and met a tragic end.
Though summer was sweltering, she shivered violently.
To avoid marrying the Crown Prince, Jiang Yanning thought it over and decided she had to choose a husband for herself as soon as possible.
After looking around, she set her sights on the young master of the Song family, who had come to seek refuge at her estate.
He was handsome, and a pleasure to look at.
She knew his temperament and character inside out.
He had neither father nor mother, so she wouldn't have to serve her in-laws.
He had some skill in both literature and martial arts. He probably couldn't place first in the imperial exams, but even a minor official living a modest life was better than dying in the Eastern Palace.
Jiang Yanning made up her mind: he was going to be her husband!
*
Song Yuanzhi had only planned to stay at the Jiang residence for a while. Once he uncovered the truth about his parents' deaths, he would leave.
But who could have guessed that Jiang Yanning would take his plans to sit the imperial exams seriously?
One moment she was personally bringing him ginseng soup, the next she was ordering people to carry in blocks of ice. She was so attentive that it was hard to tell whether he was taking the exams or Jiang Yanning herself.
It would have been bad enough for the young lady to torment him during the day, but she wouldn't leave him alone at night either.
The dog was asleep, but he had to stay awake. The rooster was up, so he had to get up too.
At last, the day of the imperial exams arrived. Just as he was about to run away, the young lady grabbed his robe. Her almond-shaped eyes were full of warmth as she said softly, "Brother Yuanzhi, you have to pass."
As if possessed, he asked, "Why?"
Without a second thought, Jiang Yanning blurted out, "Then you can marry me."
Snow covered the branches, but tiny green buds were already appearing, a promise of spring.
Song Yuanzhi's ears burned. He nodded vaguely, then turned and walked into the examination hall.
Maybe coming first wasn't out of the question.
The daughter of the Minister of Justice x her loyal childhood friend, a young guard
The young guard is forced by the young lady to study, and ends up on the path to the imperial exams.
Screenshot taken on November 30
Theme: For the one you love, no hardship is too great.
