Young Master Xu, the Top Scorer? The Top Scorer, Mr. Xu?
It sounds rather unserious upon first hearing it.
"Forget it, if I can successfully become the Top Scorer in the Imperial Examination later, enduring a bit of hardship is no big deal."
Becoming the Top Scorer in South Zhili isn't a problem, but whether one can make it to the first rank depends on luck.
Because those who can pass the examination are all of decent literary skill, and the Imperial Examination is largely a matter of luck.
Generally, it's the court elites who review the papers, then discuss, and select ten essays, which are handed over to the Emperor to determine the final rankings.
If the Emperor can't be bothered, it's often the Grand Secretary who provides suggestions and the proceedings follow accordingly.
Thus, the rankings in the Imperial Examination are, to a certain extent, influenced by one's connections and background.
