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Chapter 955: The Qiao Family

Qiao Hongxi appeared visibly annoyed, and the entire Qiao Family seemed to be in a state of boredom.

Due to Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan’s previous actions within the Qiao Family, many relatives were eager to witness Shao Yunduan’s embarrassment, hoping it would provide County Magistrate Qiao and his wife with an opportunity to return home and scold him.

Consequently, numerous members of the Qiao Family awaited the examination results with skepticism.

The entire family was convinced that Shao Yunduan had not succeeded.

However, Qiao Xuan herself refused to believe it.

“How could someone like him become an intermediate Advanced Scholar? Were this year’s questions exceptionally easy?” one relative questioned.

“Even a broken clock is right twice a day!” another scoffed.

“What a ridiculous notion! How could someone like him possibly reach the intermediate level?”

“I doubt it. He lacks manners, ethics, and morality. He is not worthy of any recognition!”

The elders of the Qiao Family felt a bitter sense of resentment and annoyance. Nevertheless, they could only vent their frustrations verbally. Regardless of their boldness, they would never dare to report the matter. To question the fairness of the imperial court was no trifling matter, and causing trouble could lead to their own ruin.

In the end, they consoled themselves with a thought. “He is fortunate not to have become an official. If he were to achieve that position, he would meet an untimely demise without ever realizing how it happened. Besides, we severed the engagement with him long ago!”

In private, Second Mrs. Qiao and Third Mrs. Qiao were particularly vexed.

Why were both branches of the family facing such misfortune? The Qiao Family’s meager wealth had been completely consumed by the third branch!

To make matters worse, both the father and son of the third branch had achieved the title of Advanced Scholar. Even the daughter of a concubine and her son-in-law, who hailed from such a humble place, had managed to reach Advanced Scholar status!

When did becoming an Advanced Scholar become so effortless, almost akin to reaching the intermediate level?

Qiao Hongxi was seething with annoyance.

He had always held a sense of pride, firmly believing that he was a true genius. From being a Child Student to a Cultivated Talent, a recommended man, and ultimately an Advanced Scholar, he had surpassed even his father. He considered himself exceptional and took great pride in his accomplishments.

But Shao Yunduan’s seemingly effortless achievement was a complete humiliation for him.

Just as Qiao Hongxi stepped out of Hanlin Academy, he was intercepted by Songshi. “Young Master Qiao, Fifth Master and Young Madame request a meeting with you.”

Qiao Hongxi recognized Songshi and sneered. “Shao Yunduan may be an Advanced Scholar, but so am I! Let him know that it’s far too early for him to show off in front of me. Advanced Scholars with influential backgrounds are in an entirely different league!”

“I have no interest in seeing them. Tell them to get lost!”

Qiao Hongxi felt a surge of satisfaction. Shao Yunduan might have achieved the title of Advanced Scholar, but he had no means of making his way through. Perhaps he was feeling anxious and expected Qiao Hongxi to help him secure a favorable position? Dream on!

Undeterred, Songshi maintained a composed smile. “Young Master Qiao, I’m not sure I understand what you’re referring to. I simply want to remind you that you made a bet with Fifth Master and Young Madame. They are curious as to when you plan on fulfilling your obligations, including offering the appropriate apology and performing the kowtow.”

Qiao Hongxi’s face abruptly changed, startled by the reminder.

He had completely forgotten about it!

Well, not entirely forgotten. He had sensed a nagging feeling that he had neglected something important, but the specifics eluded him. Songshi’s words served as a sudden awakening.