I traveled back to the Qin Dynasty, and the First Emperor begged me to become his empress.

Chapter 310 Zhao Ran Also Wants to Participate in the Imperial Examination

In stark contrast to the invisible tension and power struggles within the imperial court, the common people presented a completely different scene of bustling activity. The imperial examinations, like a whirlwind, rapidly spread to every inch of Qin territory. In Xianyang, countless scholars had already learned of the event and were all incredibly excited. They gathered in small groups, holding bamboo slips, diligently studying their lessons. Due to the unprecedented enthusiasm for the examinations, the major bookstores in Xianyang were instantly packed with customers. Before long, the books in the bookstores were sold out, and the shelves were empty.

For a time, a fervent reading craze swept through the entire city of Xianyang. Everywhere, from main streets and alleys to teahouses and taverns, one could see figures engrossed in their studies. However, this enthusiastic atmosphere was not a good thing for some students from impoverished families. Due to the high demand and limited supply of classics, historical texts, philosophical works, and literary collections, their prices skyrocketed, making them unaffordable for these poor families. They simply could not afford enough books to study and could only sigh longingly at the exorbitant prices.

Ying Wuyou was well aware of these circumstances and was deeply worried. After court, she hurriedly boarded her carriage and sped towards the estate outside the city. At that moment, only one thought occupied her mind: to develop movable type printing as soon as possible. Only in this way could books be printed in large quantities to meet the needs of impoverished students and give more people the opportunity to change their fate through the imperial examinations.

Upon arriving at the estate, Ying Wuyou immediately summoned Zhao Ran. Zhao Ran rushed over and stood respectfully to the side, awaiting instructions. Ying Wuyou issued the order without hesitation, instructing Zhao Ran to quickly find some skilled craftsmen. Zhao Ran accepted the order and set off without delay to make the arrangements.

While Zhao Ran was busy with her work, Ying Wuyou quickly contacted the system, carefully reviewed and meticulously recorded all the detailed methods of movable type printing. She was completely focused, not daring to be negligent in the slightest, for fear of missing any crucial step. Time passed slowly, and finally, Zhao Ran returned with a group of craftsmen.

At this moment, Ying Wuyou was already confident. After everyone had settled down, she calmly and methodically explained her plan and the specific implementation details to Zhao Ran. Zhao Ran's eyes widened as she stared intently at the movable type printing method Ying Wuyou had given her. The more she read, the more excited and thrilled she became!

It's important to understand that since the invention of paper, copying books gradually became an important way for many literate people to make a living. They carefully transcribed the text from bamboo slips onto brand-new paper, and after careful binding, a lightweight and portable book was born. This convenient book was enthusiastically sought after and sincerely loved by many scholars as soon as it was introduced. However, even so, a considerable number of people still insisted that bamboo slips were the most ideal writing material, and the two sides often argued heatedly and irreconcilably over this.

However, if movable type printing could be successfully mastered, the production of paper books would increase dramatically, and the production cost would naturally decrease significantly. Thinking of this, Zhao Ran couldn't help but raise his head, looking at Ying Wuyou with deep gratitude. He knew all too well the enormous changes and benefits this miraculous invention would bring to people once put into practice! And all of this was thanks to the exceptionally intelligent young lady before him—Ying Wuyou.

Ying Wuyou keenly noticed Zhao Ran's gaze. She smiled slightly and asked softly, "Zhao Ran, have you considered participating in this year's scientific expedition?"

Zhao Ran was taken aback at first, but then nodded without hesitation and replied firmly, "Yes, Miss, I do have that idea. However... if I were to participate in the imperial examination, how would I handle the many affairs of the estate? After all, I have been in charge of managing all the affairs of the estate for many years."

Ying Wuyou smiled slightly, waved his hand and said, "The imperial examination is the most important thing in life. Since you are willing to participate, then just go for it! Don't worry about things on the estate. I will give you your indenture later. Take it to the government to remove your lowly status, and then you can focus on preparing for the exam. With your talent and ability, I firmly believe that you will achieve excellent results."

Upon hearing these words, Zhao Ran's eyes instantly welled up with tears. His voice trembled slightly as he expressed his gratitude: "Thank you so much for your trust and kindness, Miss! Regardless of the outcome of this imperial examination, I will remain loyal to you for the rest of my life. If you ever need anything from me, I will go through fire and water, even if it means my own death!"

Seeing this, Ying Wuyou was deeply moved. She gently patted Zhao Ran's shoulder and comforted him, "You've worked diligently and efficiently on the estate for the past two years, managing all affairs with remarkable skill. Now that you wish to change your destiny through the imperial examinations, how could I not support you? Later, go around the estate and inquire if anyone else is also interested in taking the exams. If so, record their names and report them to me so I can prepare the necessary books and materials to help you."

Zhao Ran tried to calm her excited emotions, took a deep breath and replied, "Yes, Miss, please rest assured! I will certainly live up to your expectations and take care of this matter."

Ying Wuyou nodded slightly in agreement, then said slowly, "Then you should start arranging matters related to movable type printing. However, regarding the candidate to replace you in your current position, do you have anyone in mind?"

After a moment's thought, Zhao Ran replied, "In my opinion, Zheng Yuanshan is quite suitable. He is usually reliable and steady in his work, and should be able to handle the job."

Upon hearing this, Ying Wuyou's gaze sharpened slightly. After pondering for a moment, he said, "In that case, bring him here so I can take a look."

Zhao Ran quickly replied, "Yes, sir!" After saying that, he turned around and walked into the manor with light but firm steps.

Not long after, Zhao Ran returned with a young man. From a distance, the man appeared robust and tall, easily over eight feet in height; his face was square and his features were regular, though his skin was slightly dark, giving him an air of simplicity and unpretentiousness. Upon approaching, Zheng Yuanshan, seeing Ying Wuyou, dared not be negligent and immediately bowed respectfully, his every gesture conforming to proper etiquette, his movements precise and meticulous.

Ying Wuyou secretly observed the young man before her, already forming a judgment about his character—he seemed to be a meticulous person, a trait that wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Therefore, she casually posed a few questions, wanting to further test Zheng Yuanshan's knowledge and adaptability. Faced with the questions, Zheng Yuanshan showed no stage fright, answering each one clearly. Although his words were simple, his answers were quite proper and contained no obvious omissions.

Seeing this, Ying Wuyou's face showed satisfaction. He nodded slightly and then asked, "Have you ever intended to take the imperial examination to gain fame and fortune?"