Within the Hundred Schools of Thought, all sages are represented.
By some mysterious force, these sages offer protection to the Imperial Examination Academy, ensuring that no external demonic force can approach it. Within its bounds, even divine abilities and magical arts become nullified. Any attempt to cheat using such powers is impossible. The moment such an act is committed, it is detected instantly, and the perpetrator is disqualified.
Moreover, under the light of the statues of the sages, a solemn and tranquil aura naturally descends. All examinees—regardless of origin—find their minds calmed, their thoughts more focused. Though it may not bring about a flood of inspiration, it at least ensures one performs at their usual level. For those with fragile minds, however, such comfort is but a drop in the ocean.
"These are statues of sages. In Great Yi, we do not revere Confucianism alone. Instead, all schools of thought are valued. Any philosophy that benefits the world and the people has fertile ground to flourish. The Immortal Academy houses divisions for each of the Hundred Schools, and their classics may all be cultivated. This truly is the flourishing age of human civilization."
"Indeed. Though the sole reverence of Confucianism has its merits, it hinders the progress of civilization. The King once said that elevating one school can accelerate its influence, but it stalls the advancement of thought and weakens the overall development of humanity. No single doctrine can address all the needs of the people."
History is rife with examples of this.
The era when Confucianism stood alone reached its peak in the Song Dynasty. During that period, scholars dominated the realm, and Confucian ideals were paramount. The emperor's famous lines—"In books, there are houses of gold; in books, beauties like jade; in books, abundant horses and carriages"—heralded Confucianism's golden age. Yet this "golden age" birthed a fragile dynasty.
When scholars governed the military, Song's soldiers became weak and cowardly. The empire's dignity vanished, replaced by humiliation—territorial concessions, tributes, and forced marriages were commonplace.
Confucian scholars, even those skilled in mounted archery, could never match the martial prowess of the Military School or the Mohists. To let scholars control the battlefield was to reduce war to a child's game. Their favorite tactic? Armchair strategizing.
This is why, in the Eternal Continent and especially in Great Yi, no citizen wishes to see Confucianism reign supreme again.
The Hundred Schools Contending allows ideologies to clash and ignite sparks of brilliance.
Just as in the Spring and Autumn period—though only three hundred years long—the civilization and intellectual enlightenment it birthed rivaled millennia of other eras. Such is the power of clashing philosophies.
The people of Great Yi know this truth well.
And the Confucianists of old knew it too. Yet they still chose dominance, not out of ignorance, but for power—to place themselves above all other doctrines. Interests, after all, never vanish.
Great Yi will never repeat that mistake.
Though ideological conflict may bring chaos, it can be turned into strength if managed properly. That's why even traditional scholars accept the idea of craftsmen, merchants, and others from the Nine Classes participating in the Imperial Examination.
After all, artifacts like the communication talisman are crafted by the Heavenly Works Pavilion. Everyone has benefitted from these, and none dare look down on the artisans who made them.
"Look over there! That tower—it seems to overlook the entire Academy grounds."
"Indeed, on examination day, that will likely be where the Chief Examiner resides, observing all."
"There's a signboard—Qingyun Tower!"
Masses of examinees touring the Academy were immediately drawn to the only tower in the compound: Qingyun Tower.
"Time flows like a mighty river. Strive to ascend the Qingyun Road."
The symbolism is clear: those who pass the exams will rise like clouds, achieving fame and glory. The name "Qingyun" is profoundly meaningful.
Only those who ascend in status may one day step into Qingyun Tower as honored guests.
All examinees looked upon the tower with burning ambition.
Soon after, they toured the Examinee Quarters—their place of residence during the examination period. These buildings were densely packed and uniform, without any difference in treatment. Whether noble scion or powerful cultivator, all lived under the same roof with absolute equality.
Each unit came fully furnished—with beds, desks, standardized Enlightenment Lamps, and other necessities. Everything was carefully arranged to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, minimizing any negative effects on the students' performance.
Those who had participated in previous examinations marveled. In the past, such quarters were mere brick rooms with wooden planks, cramped and barely livable. Many examinees fell ill simply from enduring those harsh conditions. Compared to that, this was paradise.
"This Academy is indeed a wondrous structure. The King's care for us is deep and sincere. I will give my all in this examination to repay his grace!"
"Indeed! No other dynasty compares to Great Yi. The kingdom I came from was ignorant and backward—it cannot hold a candle to this!"
More and more examinees arrived at Xuanhuang City, first registering, then verifying their identity, and finally settling into the Academy. Accommodation was not only free, but the meals served included spiritual rice, such as Snow Pear Rice, said to clear the mind and enhance literary thinking.
Meals were cooked by chefs from the Hall of Delicacies, and considering the exam's mental and physical demands, they prepared fine dishes made from beast meat to replenish qi and blood.
Before the exam began, examinees were allowed to freely come and go from the first layer of the Treasure Tree Cloud Realm, visiting shops and exploring the city without restriction.
Unknowingly, the examination was now just seven days away.
That day, in the Chaotian Palace, the royal assembly was in full session.
On the throne sat Yi Tianxing, clad in the Chaotic Battle Dragon Robe, exuding unshakable majesty.
"Your Majesty, the Imperial Examination draws near. While the location is set—the Academy—we have yet to appoint the Chief Examiner. With time running short, a decision must be made. Do you have a candidate in mind?" asked Huang Chengyan, breaking the silence and raising the most pressing issue of the day.
"Indeed," said Wu Yong, "I believe there should be not just a Chief Examiner, but also a Deputy Examiner. That way, responsibilities can be shared, and the workload better managed."
Other ministers nodded in agreement.
After all, it would be absurd for the King himself to host the examination. That would imply a lack of capable officials.
"Agreed. This matter must be settled," Yi Tianxing responded. "Does anyone have a suitable candidate?"
"Your Majesty," Huang Chengyan said, stepping forward, "I recommend Duke Cai as Chief Examiner for Great Yi's first Imperial Examination."
"Firstly, he is not a member of the royal court, making him a neutral and ideal choice. Secondly, he is the Headmaster of the Immortal Academy and a renowned scholar of profound virtue and learning. His prestige is widespread. No examinee would dare oppose his appointment. It is a choice the people will accept."
The role of Chief Examiner was no trivial post.
In past dynasties, it was a fiercely contested position.
Why? Because the Chief Examiner became the teacher of all those who passed. These successful candidates, out of gratitude, would visit and address him as Honored Mentor, thus forming a bond.
When these scholars entered court, they would naturally align with their mentor, weaving a network of influence that could easily evolve into a political faction—and potentially threaten the balance of power.