The Marquis Mansion’s Elite Class
Chapter 392

The Little Demon King's vivid description painted such a clear picture in the students' minds that they could almost see the examination hall—a tiny, dark room. Yet, they still longed to see it for themselves...

Another student stepped forward and asked Zong Wenxiu, "Hello! How did you all manage to pass the Childhood Scholar exams in such a short time?"

Zong Wenxiu replied gently, "Because time was tight, we squeezed every moment to study—often reciting texts while nibbling on steamed buns, thinking about them during meals, and even before sleep. Besides, studying requires knowing what’s important. Some topics are must-knows, so we mastered them thoroughly, while others didn’t need as much attention. Most importantly, we were determined to win, to surpass our peers, seniors, and even the young prodigies from other academies."

The student’s eyes sparkled as he thanked them repeatedly, saying, "You’ve already done it—defeated so many geniuses."

The five young boys smiled in unison.

The capital was filled with talented, hardworking prodigies from influential families. They had been so focused on chasing after these geniuses that they hadn’t realized they themselves had already become the unattainable idols in the eyes of countless students.

Another student asked, "But doesn’t studying so hard exhaust you?"

Shen Yibai answered, "Of course it’s tiring! I often find studying annoying. But we take exams every three days, and each time, I see how much I’ve improved. That indescribable sense of achievement keeps me going. It’s like... feeling stronger every day."

"Will you all take this year’s Provincial Exam?" The question made the students behind them perk up, their eyes filled with anticipation.

The Provincial Exam—ah, the Provincial Exam!

Only scholars and Childhood Scholars could take it.

Passing it meant becoming a provincial graduate.

One person’s success would bring honor to their entire clan and glory to their academy.

The Little Demon King replied confidently, "Of course! We’ll all take the Provincial Exam this year. After that, we’ll tackle the Metropolitan Exam, and next year, we’ll stand in the palace for the Palace Exam."

Another asked, "That’s amazing! Why are you all so confident you’ll pass?"

He Zheng stated firmly, "Because we’re just that strong."

...

The students’ questions came one after another, covering study methods to mindset. One asked, and a hundred listened.

Boss Xie smiled at the academy head and said, "With this lively atmosphere, I’m tempted to ask a question too."

The academy head chuckled, "Go ahead. If we miss this chance, we may never meet such outstanding youngsters again."

Boss Xie paused, then nodded. "You’re right."

He joined the queue. When his turn came, the boys even waved at him.

Boss Xie asked with a smile, "Undoubtedly, all five of you Childhood Scholars are exceptional. I believe you’ve worked hard, but you must also be naturally gifted. My question is—for those without such talent, is it still worth striving?"

The boys exchanged glances before Zong Wenxiu took the lead. After a moment’s thought, he replied, "I don’t think there are that many truly gifted people. Among the Childhood Scholars I know, only one has a photographic memory. The rest memorize texts word by word through repetition. As for innate understanding—yes, that varies. But exams that truly test insight are the Metropolitan and Palace Exams, where the depth of an essay can decide everything. The earlier exams aren’t like that. For instance, the Childhood Scholar exams, though aimed at prodigies, only test comprehension and memorization—just with an overwhelming volume of material. What’s needed is relentless effort and sharp exam strategy. Even the Provincial Exam covers many subjects. If your essays aren’t stellar, you can compensate with poetry or classics. Being weak in one area might not get you top marks, but you can still pass."

His point was clear: Even without innate talent, hard work could take you far—farther than most.

Boss Xie understood. He nodded and said, "Well said. I’ve learned much."

Zong Wenxiu smiled humbly in return.

By late afternoon, the five had answered nearly a hundred questions. Despite drinking water constantly, their throats felt parched.

As the event ended, the academy head had the teachers usher everyone out. The students left reluctantly.

Suddenly, a voice rang out from the crowd: "Will we ever see you again?"

The noisy courtyard fell silent.

Everyone knew these boys were from the capital. This afternoon might be their only chance to meet them—like a dream that leaves no trace upon waking.

Standing on the platform, Zong Jincheng spotted the speaker through the sea of people. With unwavering confidence, he encouraged, "Of course! We’ll meet in the officialdom."

The Little Demon King was destined for politics.

If they wanted to see him again, they’d have to earn their way in.

"Alright! I’ll catch up soon!" the boy shouted back. "My name is Xin Nanbei! We will meet again!"

The boys waved—both an acknowledgment and a farewell.

Boss Xie exchanged their egg-selling earnings for a single silver tael. At the gates of Brightness Academy, they parted ways. Watching the boys leave, Boss Xie turned for one last look at the academy.

The fire of ambition, long extinguished, had been rekindled in his heart.

On the way back, the Little Demon King tossed the silver tael into the air. He Zheng caught it and threw it again, the others joining in—catching, tossing, laughing, and roughhousing as they ran.

Zong Wenxiu chuckled and warned, "Be careful. If you drop it, all our hard work today goes to waste."

The Little Demon King threw it once more, unfazed. "Relax, brother! The road’s smooth here. We’re just happy—this is the first money we’ve ever earned ourselves! One tael, with only half as cost... that means we made five hundred coins! Five hundred coins can buy so much!"

Shen Yibai grumbled, "Eggs are way too cheap. A few big baskets for just one tael? Should’ve sold them for ten!"

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