I swept the Phoenix with the Onmyoji Shikigami

Chapter 295 Students appreciate your appreciation and kindness

After Shen Xing checked in, he was immediately attracted by the atmosphere here. He seemed to be able to feel the fragrance of books and hope in the air.

In the following days, Shen Xing devoted himself to the final review.

He studied the classics, history, and literature day and night, sometimes writing furiously, sometimes reciting in a low voice, striving to memorize every word and every sentence.

He knew very well that although the imperial examination was not the only way, it was an important way for him to realize his ambitions and prove his self-worth.

Under the candlelight of the inn, Shen Xing's figure looked particularly lonely and determined.

He occasionally looked out the window, but his thoughts drifted far away.

He thought about why he had chosen this path, the people who supported him silently, and the persistence and dream deep in his heart. These thoughts were like a beacon, illuminating his way forward and helping him find his direction amid exhaustion and confusion.

As time went by and the day of the scientific expedition approached, Shen Xing's mood became more and more complicated.

He is looking forward to the arrival of that moment, hoping to show what he has learned and become famous; but he is also worried that he is not well prepared and will disappoint everyone's expectations. But no matter what, he is ready to meet the upcoming challenges and opportunities.

Amid the hustle and bustle of the inn, Shen Xing alone maintains a sense of tranquility and persistence.

The students around him mentioned to him the legendary book friend and the family background he could bring, as if it was a shortcut to success.

However, Shen Xing just smiled indifferently after hearing this, with unquestionable determination revealed in his eyes.

"My fellow students, although I, Shen Xing, am not talented, I have read thousands of books and know all kinds of things in the world. In my opinion, true knowledge and talent cannot be measured by family background, nor can they be bestowed by power." Shen Xing's voice was not loud, but every word was sonorous and powerful, touching people's hearts.

He continued, "We study and learn in order to pursue truth and realize our own value, not to rely on a certain family and become a tool for them to seek personal gain. If this is the price we pay, what is the point of getting what we want?"

When the students heard this, some showed disdain, thinking that Shen Xing was ignorant of the times; others seemed to be thoughtful, as if they were touched by his words. But Shen Xing did not care about other people's opinions. His pride came from his respect for knowledge and his belief in himself.

"I, Shen Xing, am willing to use pen and ink as swords and knowledge as shield, and embark on the road of imperial examinations with dignity. No matter how bumpy the road ahead is, I will rely on my own strength and hard work to fight for my own glory and future." Shen Xing's words were loud and clear, as if declaring his determination and courage to the world.

In the end, he resolutely rejected all invitations to join the family and chose to face the upcoming imperial examination challenge alone. He knew that this road might be more difficult, but he also believed that only in this way could he truly prove himself and realize his ideals and ambitions.

The poetry meeting held by the prince was like a spring feast, enveloping the entire capital in an atmosphere of literature and expectation.

That day, the sun was shining brightly and the breeze was not dry.

Shen Xing walked into the venue with brisk steps, without any distracting thoughts in his mind.

Faced with this opportunity to earn some money to supplement the family income, Shen Xing picked up his pen and wrote an impromptu composition.

He had no intention of competing, he just wanted to make friends through poetry and express his aspirations.

Take this opportunity to express my thoughts and gratitude to my parents.

"Brother Shen, I heard that you have great literary talent. You must show off your talent at this poetry gathering!" A classmate came up to him enthusiastically, with anticipation gleaming in his eyes.

Shen Xing smiled slightly and said modestly: "No, no, it's just some random graffiti, just for fun."

However, it is this casualness and sincerity that makes the poems flowing from his pen cleanse people's hearts like a clear spring.

When Shen Xing gently put down the impromptu piece, there was silence in the venue at first, and then thunderous applause broke out.

The poem is simple yet affectionate, rustic yet moving, as if every word and sentence touches the softest part of people's hearts.

Three days later, when the list of the champions of the poetry competition was announced, the whole capital was in an uproar. "Shen Xing? Is it the Shen Xing who usually keeps a low profile?" People were talking about it, in disbelief.

Shen Xing himself was also stunned, and then he was overwhelmed by an indescribable joy. He didn't expect that his whim would win such an honor.

At this time, the door of Prime Minister Hua's residence slowly opened, and a butler in gorgeous clothes walked towards Shen Xing with an invitation in his hand and a smile on his face: "Mr. Shen, the Prime Minister has long heard of your great name, and specially arranged a banquet to invite you to come to his house for a chat."

Shen Xing took the invitation with mixed feelings. He knew that this was not just a banquet, but also an important opportunity to determine his future path.

At the banquet, Prime Minister Hua was beaming with joy and praised Shen Xing highly: "Mr. Shen, your poems are truly breathtaking. I have seen countless people, but few can match your talent."

Shen Xing quickly stood up and saluted, saying humbly: "Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for your praise. I am just a scholar, how dare I accept such an honor."

Changing the subject, Prime Minister Hua expressed his wish for Shen Xing to join his family, and his words revealed a majesty that could not be refused. However, Shen Xing was not shaken by this. He took a deep breath and said with a firm look:

"Mr. Prime Minister, I appreciate your appreciation and kindness. But I believe that true talent and knowledge should be used to serve the people and the country, rather than becoming a tool for personal gain. Although I am not talented, I am willing to do my part for the country with what I have learned."

As soon as these words came out, the banquet was suddenly silent. Then, there was even more enthusiastic applause and praise. People were moved by Shen Xing's courage and persistence, and cast admiring glances at him.

And after a brief moment of surprise, Prime Minister Hua smiled approvingly.

The Prime Minister smiled, his eyes flashing with expectation and deep meaning, and said to Shen Xing: "Mr. Shen, I have an old friend who has heard of your great name for a long time and admires you very much. I would like to introduce you two to each other so that we can talk about elegance together."

Shen Xing heard this, although he was confused, he politely agreed, secretly guessing the identity of this "old friend". However, when a girl in a gorgeous dress and with a pretty face walked out from behind the screen, Shen Xing couldn't help but be slightly stunned. This was the Miss Hua who had a little friction with him at the banquet that day.

Upon seeing this, Prime Minister Hua's face changed slightly, and he looked at his daughter sternly, with a reproachful tone in his voice: "Yue'er, how can you be so abrupt? Mr. Shen is my distinguished guest, how can you show up without permission?"