As Gu Chengyu was looking down at the ground, counting ants, Grand Secretary Xia Qing emerged from the Taihe Palace.
"Scholars, listen to the announcement..." This voice startled Gu Chengyu, who hastily knelt down along with the other examinees, raising his eyes to look at the official standing on the steps; the results of the Imperial Examination were about to be announced. This person was Grand Secretary Xia Qing, whom he had once seen from a distance.
All the examinees perked up their ears, listening intently, waiting for their names to be called.
"First place in the Imperial Examination, Gu Chengyu!"
Gu Chengyu was caught off guard hearing his name. He looked up at Xia Qing. Xia Qing's face was expressionless, without even a glance at Gu Chengyu, only looking towards the other officials in front.
