The journey of the only child of a peasant family to take the imperial examination

"Are you serious?" Zhang Ping'an was surprised. This was indeed a big news.

"It's almost certain. My father-in-law won't let out the secret easily. Since he said it, it must mean that the higher-ups have taken action," Lin Junhui said with certainty.

Zhang Ping'an's eyes lit up. He had been studying hard since he was young, hoping that one day he would be able to pass the imperial examination and become an official. Not to mention becoming rich and powerful, or being made a marquis or a prime minister, that was too far away for him. He didn't even dare to think about it. He just wanted to at least become a ninth-rank official to ensure the safety and prosperity of his family.

"This is a great opportunity," Zhang Pingan exclaimed.

Lin Junhui patted his shoulder and said, "This is indeed a good opportunity. The imperial court is currently divided and the country is in turmoil. This is a time when we need talented people. Moreover, only students from the Southern Dynasty will be taking the exam this time. The possibility of making the list will definitely be higher than before. We must seize the opportunity!"

Zhang Pingan's eyes were firm. "I will definitely grasp it well. Thank you for your reminder!"

"We are classmates, why be polite? I will help you find out about your job in the next two days. You go back and wait for news. I will let the servant come to inform you when there is news," Lin Junhui said with a smile.

"Okay, I don't need to thank you for your kindness. I will repay you another day." Zhang Ping'an stood up and bowed to say goodbye.

After saying that, he suddenly remembered something and continued to ask, "Will the martial arts examination still be held? Since there is a civil service examination, there must be a martial arts examination!"

"I'm not sure about that, but it should be an exam. I'll help you find out," Lin Junhui replied, shaking his head. He continued, "When I'm free some other day, we can make an appointment to have dinner and drinks and talk in detail. I have an appointment today, so I won't keep you here. If you need any help, just come to me."

After coming out of the Lin Mansion, Zhang Pingan was filled with emotion. In the past, if he had taken the imperial examination at his age, the chances of passing it would have been extremely small, and the hope was slim. But now in this special period, he really had a chance. With the title of juren, he would have a completely different identity.

After Zhang Ping'an returned home, he told his parents the news. Zhang Laoer and Xu also took it very seriously and quickly told him to study with peace of mind.

Zhang Laoer said bluntly, "Don't worry about anything else. If you need to buy any books or pens, inkstones, or anything like that, just go ahead and buy them. Learning comes first!"

In the next few days, Zhang Pingan picked up his books again and began to study behind closed doors. Studying is like rowing against the current, if you don't make progress, you will fall behind. He didn't study hard for the past year, and he felt that he had wasted a lot of time.

Occasionally, when he took a break, he would pace in his yard, muttering to himself and reviewing the key points in the book.

Lin Junhui was also very concerned about this. After a few days, the servant came to tell Zhang Pingan that there was a temporary job in the provincial school library that he could do first. Although the salary was not much, it was enough to supplement the family income. More importantly, he could also access some official documents, which would help him understand current affairs.

This job is perfect for his current situation, and Zhang Pingan is very grateful.

The news about the military examination was not accurate, but Lin Junhui meant that it was always better to be prepared and to prepare in advance. Now the country needs military talents more. The Southern Xia court's secluded position in a corner was only temporary, and it would definitely have to send troops north to recover lost territory in the future.

Zhang Ping'an thought it made sense, so he went to a bookstore and bought a few common military books needed for the military examination, and took them to see his eldest brother-in-law.

The requirements for the written examinations for Wu Tongsheng and Wu Xiucai are not particularly high, and mainly involve memorizing military books such as "The Art of War", "Wu Zi", "Sima Fa", "Wei Liaozi", etc.

The more difficult the world is, the more important it is to have a skill and some status in order to survive better. Now is a good opportunity, and it would be a pity if my brother-in-law doesn't take the martial arts examination with his physique!

Zhang Ping'an came to his eldest brother-in-law's house. Liu Sanlang was chopping firewood in the yard. He had already chopped a lot of firewood. The yard was not big to begin with, and two families lived together. The firewood took up a lot, and there was no place to step after entering.

Seeing Zhang Ping'an coming with the book, Liu Sanlang asked in confusion: "Ping'an, what are you doing?"

"Brother-in-law, I heard that the military examination might be held. This is the military book I bought specifically for you to prepare for the exam," Zhang Ping'an handed it over with a smile.

Liu Sanlang took the book, his eyes full of surprise and gratitude, but then he hesitated, "Ping'an, you are thoughtful, but now I have just established myself in Lin'an, and I have to take care of my family's livelihood. I am afraid I don't have time!"

Upon hearing this, Daya came out of the house and said, "Sanlang, I mean well. He is well-educated and has a longer-term vision than us. We are living a tight life now. If you pass the military examination and get a decent job, things will be different in the future."

Liu Sanlang scratched his head. "Daya, I know this is a good opportunity, but what should I do with all the things going on at home? Every day, I need money to eat, drink, defecate, urinate, and sleep."

Daya was not afraid: "I know what you are worried about, but we can get through it if we grit our teeth. I will take care of more of the household affairs and the children. Besides, it will only take half a year at most, so you can just focus on preparing for the exam!"

Liu Sanlang was still a little hesitant. "What if I don't pass the exam? All my efforts will be wasted, and I won't be able to make money for my family."

Daya hit him lightly and said, "Look at your lack of ambition. How can you tell you can't do it before you even try? You are strong and have some martial arts skills. Master Yang once said that you are suitable for the martial arts examination. As long as you work hard, you will definitely succeed!"

Zhang Pingan also echoed, "Brother-in-law, just give it a try. Even if you don't pass the exam, at least you'll learn some skills!"

Liu Sanlang looked at Daya, then at the military book in his hand, and finally made up his mind, "Okay, then I'll give it a try!"

Daya showed a relieved smile on her face.