5. Bookworm If I can break free in two years, I will surely return to your side.

Morning at the Wenxuan Library

Early in the morning, a young eunuch arrived at the Yang residence to deliver an imperial decree. Xuanyuan Ren appointed the newly crowned top scholar of the imperial examination to serve as a compiler at the Wenxuan Library. The primary duty was to read—within these halls lay a vast collection of books designed to broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of the nation's history. Only by immersing themselves in such knowledge could they better serve the realm in the future. This was a compulsory course for every top three scholar, a preparatory stage lasting one or two years before taking on greater responsibilities, including assisting the royal family in managing the library’s vast archives—much like a modern-day librarian.

Yang Wentai—no, rather, Hui Yue’er—set out with determination. She donned a simple black official robe, devoid of any insignia since she held no rank yet, the only adornments being a hat and a belt. As a newcomer, she had not yet attained the status worthy of being carried in a sedan chair. Upon arriving at the Wenxuan Library gate, she encountered Wen Sibao and Li Hao. Hui Yue’er and Wen Sibao exchanged the customary respectful greeting, politely ceding the way as they entered the library together. Li Hao, however, looked on with a proud smirk, still unable to comprehend how he had lost to these two. His arrogance was his downfall.

Inside, it was as if no one noticed their arrival. Scores of people were quietly organizing and reading books, utterly absorbed in their work. The silence was profound, almost eerie—thankfully it was broad daylight, or else one might have suspected ghosts roamed the halls. Li Hao, frustrated, shouted, “Is there not a single living soul here?” The Wenxuan Library struck one as a gloomy place.

Li Hao’s outburst drew all eyes to them. Hui Yue’er smiled warmly and said, “Greetings, everyone. We are new arrivals at the Wenxuan Library. I am Yang Wentai, this is Wen Sibao, and this is Li Hao. We look forward to learning from all the esteemed seniors here.” Compared to Li Hao’s brashness, Hui Yue’er’s tone was far more pleasant and respectful.

Wen Sibao also spoke kindly, “Though I may be older than some of you, if there is any task you wish me to undertake, I shall devote myself fully to it.” Seeing Hui Yue’er and Wen Sibao’s courtesy, Li Hao only regarded them with disdain.

At that moment, another man entered—a figure clad in a brocade robe, red oxhide boots, and a silver crown. With a refined demeanor, he introduced himself: “I’m sure you all know who I am. From today onward, I shall be your direct superior. I won’t meddle unnecessarily, but I expect each of you to fulfill your duties well.” Then, he glanced at Hui Yue’er with a knowing look. This was no other than Prince Zhao Chengxian, formerly known as the Idle Prince. The previous afternoon, he had petitioned Xuanyuan Ren to be assigned to the Wenxuan Library. Knowing Zhao Chengxian would not relent if refused, Xuanyuan Ren consented and entrusted him with a task: to observe how many among the library’s staff had not yet joined the factions of the Rui or Cheng parties, and to identify talents who could be of use. Zhao Chengxian was Xuanyuan Ren’s eyes and ears.

Surprised, Hui Yue’er asked, “Your Highness? How is it that you have become my direct superior?” Realizing she had spoken too freely, she quickly turned away, avoiding his gaze. She knew that Zhao Chengxian’s sharp mind would easily detect her unease.

Zhao Chengxian smiled as he looked at Hui Yue’er organizing the books. “It seems the new top scholar’s hearing is poor. I just introduced myself—have you forgotten so quickly?” A trace of disappointment crossed his face, though inwardly he was pleased. Yang Wentai’s reaction showed she cared about him, which meant Hui Yue’er’s chances were better.

Hui Yue’er only smiled silently in return, saying nothing. She knew that the more she spoke, the more likely she was to reveal weaknesses. Bending her head to continue sorting the books, she thought to herself: “Bookworm, if I can escape this place in two years, I will surely return to your side.”