The Dali Temple's Female Official, Crowned the Finest in the Capital

Five years after the new emperor ascended the throne, the Great Wei introduced a system of female officials, encouraging women to leave their homes and serve in the government. The court ministers responded with scorn and contempt. “Women should stay inside their chambers and wait to be married, observing the Three Obediences and Four Virtues, and the Three Cardinal Guides and Five Constant Virtues. Taking the imperial exams, becoming officials, and appearing in public are utterly improper!” Wen Xianyue kicked open the minister’s front door and smacked a book of female virtues over his head. “Whatever a man can do, a woman can do too!” Everyone has heard of men studying by a cold window for ten years, then making the imperial examination list and serving their country. But no one sees women studying tirelessly in their inner chambers, day and night, just to get out of their homes and put their talents to use. Waiting at home to be married, supporting one’s husband, and raising children have never been the limit of what women can achieve. They are only a cage. These backward rules need to change! … When Wen Xianyue becomes an official at the Court of Judicial Review, she leaves everyone there dumbfounded on her very first day. “Your Excellency, the body is so badly decomposed that the coroner fainted as soon as he approached it.” “I’ll do it!” If you’re afraid to examine the body, I’ll do it! “Your Excellency, that gambling house belongs to the Empress Dowager’s nephew. She dotes on him, so I…” “I’ll do it!” If you’re afraid to arrest someone, I’ll do it! “Your Majesty, the Xiliang cavalry are fierce fighters, and there may be no one at court who can stand against them.” “I’ll do it!” If you’re afraid to fight that battle, I’ll do it! Wen Xianyue is determined to show the world that women are no worse than men!