Day fifty-eight of the great upheaval.
To respond to King Yan's "expedition," the Imperial Court issued an announcement after today's morning court session.
In essence, the idea is that with the new Emperor ascending the throne, an additional imperial examination will be held to celebrate, demonstrating the Emperor's vast grace and mercy.
This is what is known as the Enke, or special imperial examination.
The imperial examination of the Great Song Dynasty is held once every three years. Last year's examination has already taken place, so according to custom, it would be held again in three years, or the year after next.
However, the Enke is an additional examination, providing another opportunity for the exam next spring.
Of course, this is the usual Enke, held to fill vacancies among officials. Zhao Chong ordered that this Enke be advanced by three months.
So, three months from now, there will be an imperial examination.
